What Did the DGCA Chief and UK Ambassador Discuss About Kuwait's Aviation Future?
Key Points
- 1DGCA Chairman Sheikh Hamoud Mubarak Al-Sabah and UK Ambassador Qudsi Rashid met on December 29, 2025, to enhance civil aviation cooperation and air transport system support.
- 2The meeting is set against the backdrop of Kuwait's DGCA transforming into the Public Authority for Civil Aviation (PACA) to align with ICAO standards.
- 3The dialogue is crucial as Kuwait International Airport (KWI) recently reported a 1% passenger traffic decline in 2024, contrasting with regional growth.
The Chairman of the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) in Kuwait, Sheikh Hamoud Mubarak Al-Hamoud Al-Sabah, met with the United Kingdom’s Ambassador to Kuwait, Qudsi Rashid, on Monday. The high-level meeting focused on ways to enhance cooperation in the civil aviation sector.
According to a statement from the DGCA, the officials reviewed opportunities for exchanging expertise. They also discussed strengthening bilateral relations to support the air transport system. A key goal is facilitating passenger movement between Kuwait and the United Kingdom. Both sides stressed the importance of continued coordination. They aim to develop partnerships that serve mutual interests. This coordination will help achieve the highest standards of safety and efficiency.
Context for Bilateral Aviation Relations
Cooperation between Kuwait and the UK has a strong foundation. The two nations signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in June 2022. This MoU updated bilateral arrangements for air operations. It also allowed for the exercise of Fifth Freedom Rights. The goal was to encourage international airlines to increase flights.
Recent data shows a mixed picture for the Kuwaiti market. Scheduled seat capacity on non-stop flights to the UK was 11% higher in 2024 than in 2019. However, Kuwait International Airport (KWI) has faced competitive challenges. Reports from May 2025 noted a 1% decline in KWI passenger traffic in 2024. This contrasts sharply with the double-digit growth seen at regional hubs. Furthermore, the report mentioned an exodus of international carriers. This included the withdrawal of British Airways operations from KWI.
Kuwait’s Regulatory Modernization
The meeting takes place during a major regulatory shift in Kuwait. A new Civil Aviation Law was enacted in August 2025. This law is transforming the DGCA into the Public Authority for Civil Aviation (PACA). This move aims to modernize aviation oversight. It also seeks to align Kuwait’s sector with global standards. This includes frameworks set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).
The UK is a global leader in air traffic management and safety. Strengthening ties with the UK is crucial for Kuwait. It can provide technical expertise for this transition. The goal is to improve KWI's competitiveness. This will help reverse the recent air traffic decline.
Impact on Air Transport
The focus on safety and efficiency is vital for all stakeholders. Enhanced cooperation helps maintain high operational standards. This benefits both Kuwaiti and UK carriers. It also improves the experience for passengers and cargo operators. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) stresses such bilateral talks. They are key to sustainable growth in the global commercial aviation news market.
- Airlines: Increased cooperation can lead to new routes or capacity. This would follow the 2022 MoU framework.
- Passengers: The discussions aim to facilitate smoother travel. This includes better connectivity between Kuwait and the UK.
- Regulators: Exchanging expertise supports the DGCA’s transition to PACA. This ensures compliance with international safety rules.
The dialogue signals Kuwait's commitment to its aviation future. It shows a desire to overcome current market challenges. The partnership with the UK is a strategic step. It supports the nation's long-term economic vision.
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