Kuwait introduces new Media Regulation Law, repeals three existing media laws

KUWAIT CITY, Oct 4: Kuwait has issued a comprehensive new Media Regulation Law aimed at restructuring and modernizing the country's media sector, replacing three existing laws governing publications, audiovisual media and electronic media.

The new legislation was published in the Official Gazette Kuwait Alyoum, issue No. 1811, under Decree-Law No. 102 of 2026 issuing the Media Regulation Law. The decree-law repeals Law No. 3 of 2006 on Publications and Publishing, Law No. 61 of 2007 on Audiovisual Media, and Law No. 8 of 2016 regulating Electronic Media. It also repeals any other provisions that conflict with the new law.

Under Article Two, the competent minister must issue the executive regulations within six months from the date of publication of the decree-law in the Official Gazette, along with the decisions required to implement its provisions. Existing media activities covered by the law will then have six months from the issuance of the executive regulations to bring their status into compliance. Failure to do so will result in cancellation of the relevant license.

The law itself will come into force six months after its publication in the Official Gazette.

The explanatory memorandum described the legislation as a comprehensive qualitative shift aimed at restructuring and modernizing Kuwait's media system and closing legislative gaps created by rapid technological developments. It said the digital revolution has fundamentally transformed broadcasting, publishing and the ability of media platforms to influence audiences, requiring a more flexible legal framework capable of adapting to technological change.

The new framework maintains the constitutional principles governing freedom of opinion, expression, press, printing and publishing. According to the explanatory memorandum, individuals have the right to express and publish their opinions orally, in writing or by other means, within the limits prescribed by law to protect public order and morals, the rights, dignity and reputation of others, as well as national security and national unity.

It further states that media activities covered by the law, as well as books and publications displayed at official book fairs, will not be subject to prior censorship. However, films, books and other non-periodical publications printed or published inside Kuwait will require prior authorization from the competent ministry before printing, distribution and publication.

The new law brings under its regulatory framework a broad range of activities, including newspapers and publications, audiovisual media, broadcasting and rebroadcasting services, electronic media, social media advertisers and promoters, news agencies, correspondents for Arab and foreign newspapers and television channels, artistic production companies, films and cinemas, artistic and musical events, and advertising.

The explanatory memorandum also provides for violations, media-related offenses and penalties, including financial fines and administrative sanctions for violations of the law and for conducting media activities without a license.

The government has tasked ministers, each within their respective jurisdictions, with implementing the decree-law.