The ongoing debate over state property issues appears to lack a clear vision. As a result, we continue to see new decisions that hinder the efforts of investors who have revitalized neglected or undeveloped land by establishing facilities that now form a vital part of the national economy.
The economy needs substantial efforts and encouragement to recover from its slump and become competitive with others in the region, instead of placing additional obstacles in front of investors in industrial, agricultural, and service plots, as is currently happening. It is important to remember that when the state granted these plots to investors, the goal was to revive undeveloped land and build a reliable economy as an alternative to oil, which will eventually be depleted. This development proves that Kuwait is not barren land, and that urban growth is not merely for appearance, but a foundation of true progress.
This requires a clear vision that reflects the ambitions of investors who aim to strengthen society by building an economic force based on cooperation and solidarity, not one hindered by unexplained obstacles.
I have said it before and I will say it again - If the goal of these decisions is to enhance regulation, the recent measures will serve no one’s interest and will not benefit the national economy. It is important to handle this issue without personal agendas or narrow calculations.
The efficiency of the private sector must be supported and empowered so it can effectively complement the public sector. Since Kuwait is not a socialist state and operates within a regulated free-market system, it requires decisions based on a clear vision. This includes recognizing the investor’s right to own their plot or convert it into a service plot, particularly in areas near the capital like Shuwaikh, which already host various facilities such as newspaper centers and other service establishments.
These businesses often need to expand their activities beyond what is currently permitted in their licenses. The world is changing rapidly, and remaining stuck in the mindset of 50 or 60 years ago is a form of regression.
New industries require thinking out of the box. If the state wishes to participate in these projects, it can do so by granting investors ownership of plots or offering long-term licenses of at least 30 to 50 years.
This enables investors to recover their capital and earn profits, contribute to national development, and, if applicable, pay taxes in return. The government can impose taxes and fees on these activities to support the public treasury, while ensuring that investors are not subjected to arbitrary decisions or influenced by the narrow interests of certain officials. I can affirm that most investors do not object to this approach, as the diverse activities in these areas are complementary and interconnected.
Withdrawing a license or plot disrupts the overall economic system. Any government program must include clear objectives that meet current needs and also reflect a long-term vision. Improvised decisions, on the other hand, fail to serve even those who issue them, especially if the intention is to achieve lasting benefits.
Meanwhile, what is happening to landmarks considered as heritage sites raises serious questions, with Souk Mubarakiya being a prime example. After a fire damaged part of the market, there was initially a plan for reconstruction. However, it now appears that the objective has shifted. Regardless of who the investors are, the changes underway are likely to alter the market’s heritage character.
As rents inevitably rise, traditional heritage activities may be pushed out, leading to the loss of one of the capital’s most important cultural assets. In other countries, such businesses and activities are carefully preserved to maintain their heritage identity. People are not only encouraged to invest in them, but also to take pride in their cultural legacy, whether in heritage markets, industrial, agricultural, or service areas, or even in historic buildings.
The current decisions and measures repel both local and foreign investors, and create a vicious cycle that hinders the revival of Kuwait, something everyone hopes for, especially now that political tensions have eased and government decision-making has regained momentum.
