Kuwait’s New Drug Law: Amiri Decree Law No. 159 of 2025
On December 15, 2025, Kuwait is set to implement the Amiri Decree Law No. 159, a pivotal legislative initiative targeting drug-related issues. This sweeping reform seeks to fortify prevention, enforcement, and rehabilitation efforts associated with narcotics and psychotropic substances.
A Strengthened Approach to Drug Trafficking
The Ministry of Interior has emphasized that this new legislation embodies a commitment to a more stringent and expansive strategy against drug trafficking and substance abuse. With 84 articles organized into 13 comprehensive chapters, the law addresses punitive, preventative, and therapeutic measures in tackling drug-related challenges.
In a recent televised interview, Brigadier General Mohammad Qabazard, who heads the General Directorate for Drug Control at the Ministry of Interior, spoke about how the law is designed to boost community security while enhancing the efficacy of prevention and rehabilitation programs.
Deterrent Measures and Confidentiality
As part of its stricter stance, the law indicates that penalties will be severe, with some offenses potentially leading to the death penalty. This feature aims to serve as a deterrent against the increasingly complex global drug trafficking networks and the arrival of new narcotics in Kuwait.
Importantly, the legislation prioritizes the confidentiality of individuals who seek help for addiction. Qabazard reassured the public that any disclosures related to these cases will be treated with the utmost discretion. Legal repercussions await anyone who breaches this confidentiality, thus promoting a safe space for those seeking treatment.
Tightened Regulations on Dispensing Substances
Another critical element of the new law is its stringent regulations regarding the dispensation of narcotics. Pharmacists must now strictly adhere to guidelines requiring prescriptions issued by the Ministry of Interior or a licensed physician. Additionally, medications can only be dispensed in quantities necessary for a patient’s medical condition.
Brigadier General Qabazard urged community cooperation in these efforts, reinforcing that the responsibility of protecting society from drug-related issues is a joint endeavor between the public and law enforcement.
Ongoing Efforts Against Illegal Activities
In 2025, the General Directorate for Drug Control undertook various operations to combat illegal activities. Brigadier General Hamad Al-Sabah announced several raids on unlicensed farms, resulting in the seizure of multiple narcotic substances. These operations underscore Kuwait’s ongoing dedication to enhancing community safety by addressing illegal drug production and distribution.
Al-Sabah also encouraged citizens to report suspicious activities through the department’s hotline, assuring that such reports would be handled with full confidentiality to safeguard the identities of informants.
Launch of a National Awareness Campaign
In a proactive move, Brigadier General Nasser Bouslaib, the official spokesperson for the Ministry of Interior, unveiled a national awareness campaign titled “We Protect Our Nation.” This initiative aims to elevate public consciousness regarding the risks of narcotics and to mitigate their spread throughout the community.
The campaign will unfold in two phases. The initial phase lasts two weeks, focusing on educating the public about the provisions of the new law prior to its enforcement. The second phase extends into a year-long program dedicated to ongoing education about narcotics, outlining the implications of stricter penalties, and clarifying legal pathways to addiction treatment.
Targeting teenagers, parents, and the general public, this effort aligns with broader goals in Kuwait to enhance community safety and promote public health awareness regarding drug use and addiction.
By prioritizing education and community engagement, Kuwait aims to foster a more secure environment while addressing the pressing challenges posed by drug trafficking and substance abuse.
