UPDATE: Ministry of Islamic Affairs Named Competent Authority for the Places of Worship Law

The Council of Ministers has designated the Ministry of Islamic Affairs as the competent ministry, and the Minister of Awqaf and Islamic Affairs as the competent minister, for the application of Decree-Law No. 72 of 2026 regulating the establishment and management of places of worship. Decision No. 975 of 2026 was issued on 16 August 2026, published in Kuwait Al-Youm Issue 1805 dated 23 August 2026 (page A4), and applies from its issuance.

This is the first implementation step for the law, which WEFAQ reported when it was gazetted in July 2026. Decree-Law No. 72 of 2026 created a licensing framework for building and running mosques and other worship premises, covering approvals, management and supervision. Until now the law did not say which government body would operate that framework. Decision No. 975 settles the question, so licence applications and supervision will run through the Ministry of Islamic Affairs.

The next step to watch is the executive regulations, which are expected to set out application procedures, required documents and the timelines for existing premises to regularize their position.

WEFAQ advises developers, charities and property owners whose projects include worship premises to direct licensing enquiries to the Ministry from now on, and to prepare for executive regulations that are expected to detail procedures and documentation.

Source: Council of Ministers Decision No. 975 of 2026; Kuwait Al-Youm Issue 1805, page A4, dated 23 August 2026.

This article is provided for general information only and does not constitute legal advice. For advice specific to your circumstances, please contact WEFAQ Law Firm.