Kuwait Restricts 120 Freelance Activities to Citizens Only

[bonk]

Kuwait has restricted 120 freelance activities exclusively to Kuwaiti nationals, barring expatriates and Gulf residents from acting as founders, partners, or managers, according to Al Qabas. The Ministry of Commerce and Industry issued a resolution defining freelance work as commercial activity conducted without a dedicated office or premises.

Freelance licences will now be valid for four years, up from one, and multiple related activities can be added to a single licence. Licensed freelancers must comply with reporting requirements, including financial statements, bank records, and social media activity, ensuring transparency and regulatory oversight.

[EmTeam]

Kuwait locking 120 freelance activities to citizens only is a huge shift Expats + Gulf residents losing access will reshape the local gig economy. ️

[jacson4]

Defining freelance as “commercial activity without an office” sets clear boundaries, but excluding non-Kuwaitis may drive talent away.