Kuwait Introduces Tougher Traffic Fines: Red Light Violation Now Costs Up To $500

The Ministry of Interior has officially announced that starting from April 22, a new set of amended traffic regulations, under Decree-Law No. 5/2025, will take effect, Arab Times reported. This amendment revises certain aspects of the previous Decree-Law No. 67/1976, granting police officers the authority to detain individuals for specific traffic violations, including the act of crossing the stop line at red traffic lights.

This move is part of a broader strategy to fortify road safety and ensure the protection of life and property. Significantly, the decree-law introduces heftier fines for various traffic infractions as a deterrent to reckless and irresponsible driving behaviour.

These include the following

1. Driving under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or psychotropic substances.​
2. Causing accidents resulting in injury or death.​

3. Participating in unauthorized motor vehicle races on public roads.​
4. Fleeing the scene of an accident or disobeying a police officer's stop order.​

5. Exceeding the speed limit by more than 50 km/h.​

6. Driving all-terrain vehicles in non-designated areas.​
7. Crossing a red traffic light.​

8. Using a vehicle for purposes other than its designated use.​

9. Transporting passengers for a fee without a permit.​

10. Reckless driving that endangers lives or property.​

11. Driving without a valid license or with a license that does not match the vehicle category.​

12. Operating a vehicle without plates issued by the General Traffic Department.​

Increased fines for various traffic violations​

1. Running a red light: increased from KD 50 ($163.1) to KD 150 ($489.5).​

2. Reckless driving: increased from KD 30 ($97.9) to KD 150 ($489.5).​

3. Parking in spaces designated for individuals with special needs: increased from KD 10 ($32.6) to KD 150 ($489.5).​
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4. Using a mobile phone while driving: increased from KD 5 ($16.3) to KD 75 ($244.7).
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5. Failing to wear a seatbelt: increased from KD 10 ($32.6) to KD 30 ($97.9).

The Ministry of Interior's initiative to revise and enforce stricter traffic regulations underscores its dedication to improving public safety standards. By imposing sterner penalties and granting police officers the authority to detain offenders for a wider range of infractions, the decree aims to instill a greater sense of responsibility among drivers.