Kuwait Announces Comprehensive Ramadan 2026 Charity Regulations
Kuwait has unveiled a detailed framework of rules governing the collection of charitable donations during the holy month of Ramadan in 2026. The new regulations impose firm restrictions on where and how fundraising activities can be conducted, marking a significant shift toward greater oversight and transparency in charitable operations.
Strict Prohibitions on Traditional Collection Methods
The Ministry of Social Affairs has issued a circular to the boards of directors of all charitable societies, outlining specific prohibitions that will reshape donation practices. Collecting donations in mosques is now strictly forbidden in all forms, eliminating what has traditionally been a common fundraising venue during Ramadan.
Additionally, charitable organizations are completely barred from collecting cash donations of any kind, whether at their headquarters, in public spaces, or through any other physical means. This represents a fundamental change in how charitable contributions will be gathered during the holy month.
Approved Digital Donation Channels
Donation collection is now limited exclusively to licensed methods approved under Ministerial Resolution No. 128A of 2016 and its subsequent amendments. These authorized channels include:
- K-Net electronic payment systems
- Online donation platforms
- Direct bank transfers
- Smartphone applications
- Electronic collection devices
- SMS donations through telecommunications companies
The ministry has also prohibited fundraising in locations such as shopping malls, public squares, and similar venues unless specific prior approval is obtained through official channels.
Enhanced Financial Controls and Compliance Measures
The circular introduces rigorous financial controls, restricting the use of bank accounts to those that belong directly to charitable societies and have received official ministry approval. All association representatives must carry identification cards and present them immediately upon request by ministry inspection and monitoring teams.
Every donation must be recorded with precise details including the donation date, donor's name, and all relevant information. Donors must receive a copy of the deduction receipt after their information is recorded, and a K-Net receipt must be provided once the withdrawal process is completed.
To prevent discrepancies and potential fraud, all donation amounts must be written both in numerals and in words. Additionally, advertisements soliciting donations are strictly prohibited on both interior and exterior walls of mosques.
Procedures for Non-Cash Donations
The ministry has established detailed protocols for handling non-cash donations including gold, silver, vehicles, valuables, and other items. These contributions must be recorded according to weight or type, along with their equivalent value in Kuwaiti dinars.
For gold and silver donations, associations must attach a sales invoice to verify the jewellery's sale price. For vehicles and other valuable items, multiple price quotations must be obtained to ensure the highest offer is selected, based on purchase requests and in accordance with each association's established procedures. All such processes must occur exclusively at the association's headquarters.
Reporting Requirements and New Beneficiary Category
Charitable societies are required to submit comprehensive reports to the ministry detailing all Ramadan donation revenues. These reports must include complete records of:
- K-Net transactions
- Electronic collection device contributions
- Cheque donations
- Online donations
- Bank transfers
- SMS contributions
Separately, the ministry circulated a memo to board members announcing the addition of a new category of beneficiaries to the central aid system. This category includes single Kuwaiti women aged 30 and above whose fathers are deceased.
This initiative will be implemented as a pilot programme. The memo stated that if the programme proves beneficial, these women will continue to receive assistance as approved primary cases. It also called for thorough review of applications in line with established aid procedures, emphasizing the importance of verifying official proof of the father's death.
Regulatory Objectives and Future Implications
The ministry emphasized that these measures represent part of its ongoing efforts to regulate charitable activities, strengthen transparency, and ensure full compliance with laws and regulations. By shifting toward digital donation methods and implementing strict oversight mechanisms, Kuwait aims to create a more accountable charitable sector during Ramadan.
These regulations also address concerns about unauthorized fundraising and potential misuse of charitable funds that have emerged in previous years. The comprehensive approach reflects Kuwait's commitment to maintaining the integrity of charitable giving during one of the most significant periods in the Islamic calendar.
Charitable societies now face a substantial adjustment period as they transition from traditional collection methods to the mandated digital platforms. The success of these regulations will likely influence charitable policies beyond Ramadan 2026 and potentially serve as a model for other nations seeking to modernize their charitable donation systems.
