14/05/2026
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14/05/2026
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KUWAIT CITY, May 14: Dr. Khaled Al-Ajmi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Social Affairs and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Social Fund for Popular Cafés, announced the launch of a comprehensive project to redevelop the Jahra Popular Café, in cooperation with the Kuwaiti Sadu House Association. In a press statement, Al-Ajmi disclosed that the main objective of the project is to revitalize popular cafés through a modern approach, which preserves the Kuwaiti identity and heritage. He said this is part of the development vision to transform these establishments into social, recreational and cultural destinations for diverse segments of society.
He confirmed the reopening of Al-Shamimari Popular Café within this month, upon completion of extensive renovation works carried out at an accelerated pace to welcome citizens and residents who frequent popular cafés. He stated that the development plan includes the renovation and upgrading of public facilities, modernizing infrastructure, and developing and equipping play areas with modern designs that cater to the needs of families and children. He also revealed that Sulaibikhat Café underwent major renovation, which was completed in record time -- less than two months-- and now continues to welcome visitors.
He said the fund established a new approach based on transparency, fairness and equal opportunity in all investment bids. He explained this is achieved by offering cafés through public auction and officially announcing them in newspapers and on social media. He added the bid box was set up in the building of the fund in Farwaniya and it is monitored by cameras – a first for the fund. He confirmed that contracts are awarded based on the criteria that consider the best prices and the quality of services provided to citizens. He indicated that participation in the auction requires a valid license and an approved employee file with the Public Authority for Manpower (PAM) to ensure seriousness and full compliance with the regulations.
He pointed out that the fund uses a continuous monitoring and oversight system once the contracts are awarded to ensure that investors provide the best services and maintain operational quality in popular cafés. He added the Board of Directors laid down short and long-term plans to develop the sector, such as carrying out urgent maintenance of public facilities, organizing events without resorting to complete closure, developing the Al-Shamimari Café in cooperation with Professor Dawoud Al-Shamimari – an expert in Kuwaiti heritage, and various maintenance works at Salmiya Café in preparation for its more comprehensive development in the next phase.
By Fares Ghaleb Al-Seyassah/Arab Times Staff
