Kuwait’s New Law Fines Unauthorized Flag Displays

Kuwait has rolled out a strict new law, Decree-Law No. 73 of 2025, that regulates when and where you can raise flags, especially foreign or group-related ones. Here’s what you need to know if you're planning to display any flag, be it your home country’s or one representing a group or tribe.

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What Does the Law Say?

The law updates the original 1961 flag legislation and introduces Article 3 bis, which sets clear restrictions:

• No Foreign Flags Without Permission: You can’t raise any foreign flag in Kuwait during regular days, holidays, private events, or even foreign national days, unless you have prior approval from the Ministry of Interior.
• Sporting Events Get a Pass: Foreign flags are allowed at regional and international sports tournaments hosted in Kuwait. No special permission needed.
• No Religious, Tribal, or Sectarian Flags: Any flag or slogan representing a religious, social, or tribal group is banned in public spaces. The only exception? Official sports club flags.

This is all about preserving national unity and avoiding symbols that could spark division or tension.

What Are the Penalties?

Violating the new rules can get costly or even land you in jail. Here’s the breakdown:

• General Flag Violations: Breaking the basic flag rules can get you up to 3 months in jail and/or a fine between KD 100 to KD 1,000.
• Misusing Kuwait’s National Flag: This includes using it for ads, raising a damaged flag, or leaving it up permanently on a private building. Penalties go up to 1 year in jail and/or KD 300 to KD 2,000 in fines.
• Flying Foreign Flags Without Permission: You could face 6 months in jail and/or a fine between KD 1,000 and KD 2,000.
• Displaying Sectarian or Group Symbols: The harshest penalty - up to 3 years in prison and/or fines from KD 2,000 to KD 10,000.

And yes, repeat offenders face doubled penalties, and any unauthorized flags will be confiscated.

Why Now?

The government says this law is about safeguarding public security and national identity. They’ve seen a rise in the use of foreign and sectarian symbols at both official events and private parties, which they believe could disrupt social harmony.

The law aims to:

• Keep public spaces neutral and unified
• Prevent political or sectarian misuse of symbols
• Protect the sanctity of Kuwait’s national symbols

Are There Exceptions?

Yes. Flags on embassies and diplomatic vehicles are still allowed under international norms. But outside of that, you’ll need explicit permission if you want to raise anything that’s not Kuwait’s national flag or a sports team’s.

If you're in Kuwait, think twice before hoisting any flag. This new law is already in effect, and the authorities are serious about enforcing it. Whether you're planning an event or just showing pride for your roots or group, make sure you’re not accidentally breaking the law.