Kuwait launches new licensing rules for freelance businesses
New framework lets eligible Kuwaitis register licensed freelance companies without renting commercial premises.
Kuwait has introduced a new rule for freelance businesses, making it easier for eligible people to set up licensed companies without renting a traditional office.
The Ministry of Commerce and Industry issued two ministerial decisions, Nos. 216 and 217 of 2026. These decisions explain the licensing conditions and list the activities allowed under the new system. The goal is to support freelance work, while keeping the process simple and well regulated.
Who can apply for a freelance business licence?
Under the new rules, a freelance business must be set up as a single-person company. The owner must also be the manager.
To apply, the person must be a Kuwaiti citizen, at least 21 years old, and legally eligible to run a business.
Applicants may use their home address or registered email address as the company’s official address. If they use a private home address, they need the property owner’s approval.
Applications can be submitted through the Kuwait Business Centre, the Sahel app, the Sahel Business app, or any other channel approved by the Ministry.
What activities are allowed?
The new freelance licence covers several business sectors, including:
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Professional, scientific and technical services
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Consultancy and commercial services
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Administrative and business support services
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Arts, entertainment and leisure
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Education, training and tourism
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Information and communications
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Real estate and rental activities
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Building services and basic maintenance
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Textile, clothing and leather manufacturing
Some specialised consultancy activities may require a relevant university degree or professional qualification.
What are the licence conditions?
The freelance business licence will be valid for four years and can be renewed for the same period, subject to Ministry approval.
Licence holders must open a bank account in the company’s name and use electronic payment methods approved by the Central Bank of Kuwait.
They must also show the company name and commercial registration number on official websites, social media accounts, and business documents.
Using a home address for registration is allowed, but receiving clients or visitors at a private home is not permitted.
Can freelance businesses sell products and join exhibitions?
Yes. The new regulations allow licensed freelance businesses to market and sell designs, ideas, innovations, and artistic products created through their approved activity.
They can also work with licensed manufacturers and commercial businesses for production, printing, packaging, and other related services. Storage and logistics support from licensed warehouses is also allowed.
In addition, freelance businesses can take part in exhibitions, temporary markets, and online platforms to promote and sell their products and services.
Kuwait starts accepting freelance business licence applications
The Ministry of Commerce and Industry has already started accepting applications for 86 freelance business licences under the new framework.
Acting Undersecretary Marwa Al-Jaidan said government employees cannot get these licences because the owner must personally manage the business. However, they may still set up companies and become partners, as long as they do not manage or take part in the business activity.
The Ministry is also working on more digital services. This includes automating commercial registration renewals and making the process instant, so business owners will not need to visit government offices.
The new framework is part of Kuwait’s wider plan to make business registration easier, improve regulation, and create more opportunities for people who want to start independent businesses.
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AI contributed to the creation of this article.