Interview: Sheikh Meshaal Jaber Al Sabah, Director General, Kuwait Direct Investment Promotion Authority, on strengthening resilience by building a broader base of non-oil revenue sources
How are trade and investment playing a role in accelerating Kuwait’s economic diversification?
SHEIKH MESHAAL JABER AL SABAH: Trade and investment are central to Kuwait’s economic transition. Efforts to modernise regulation and introduce new public-private partnerships models are creating a more transparent and competitive business environment. These reforms are contributing to growth in non-oil GDP and expanding external trade. Major infrastructure projects, such as the Mubarak Al Kabeer Port and the GCC Railway line, are helping to position Kuwait as a logistics centre in the region. In line with the objectives of New Kuwait 2035, the country is moving towards a more diversified, knowledge-based economy that emphasises sustainability, digital solutions and advanced services.
What steps are being taken to position Kuwait as a key player in regional and global trade networks?
SHEIKH MESHAAL: Kuwait has been a long-standing participant in global trade and a founding member of the World Trade Organisation. Foreign direct investment plays a significant role in reinforcing the country’s position within trade networks by bringing in capital, technology and expertise. Substantial funding has been allocated to infrastructure. Investments in economic zones, port expansions and the GCC Railway are improving connectivity and logistics capabilities. At the same time, regulatory modernisation and stronger bilateral and multilateral partnerships are helping to integrate Kuwait more deeply into global trade systems.
To what extent are Kuwait’s trade policies adapting to meet evolving global investor expectations?
SHEIKH MESHAAL: Kuwait’s appeal to international investors is built on its strategic geographic position; macroeconomic stability; established legal framework; and a young, digitally capable workforce. The country has invested in infrastructure and maintains a mature financial and banking system. Trade and investment policies have evolved to reflect global investor priorities by opening key non-oil sectors to full foreign ownership, offering time-bound tax exemptions, reducing Customs duties and facilitating access to land for strategic projects. A streamlined licensing process and structured investor support have also reduced setup times, helping to maintain investor confidence.
In what ways can Kuwait enhance the competitiveness of key sectors to ensure sustained interest and participation from international trade partners?
SHEIKH MESHAAL: Kuwait has identified several sectors with strong potential, including energy, logistics, health care, ICT and real estate. More than $25bn is being directed towards strategic projects in power generation, housing, ports and rail transport, and the development of free trade and economic zones. To remain competitive, Kuwait continues to modernise its infrastructure, advance digital transformation and update its regulatory frameworks. Liberalised ownership rules and recent reforms are supporting innovation and entrepreneurship. Growing areas such as renewable energy, digital finance and climate-resilient agriculture are drawing the interest of investors seeking long-term, sector-based opportunities.
How can trade and investment strategies be aligned to ensure a balanced contribution to Kuwait’s long-term economic resilience and growth?
SHEIKH MESHAAL: Alignment strategies involve ensuring that capital inflows and commercial partnerships reinforce sectoral development and diversification objectives. Priorities include promoting infrastructure that support cross-border trade and investing in projects that enhance supply chain connectivity and regional integration. By channelling investment into sectors that generate sustainable employment, Kuwait can strengthen its economic resilience, building a broader base of non-oil revenue.
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