Move chalets away from the sea, like in other countries

01/07/2025

Ahmed Al Jarallah

01/07/2025

Ahmed Al Jarallah

Move chalets away from the sea, like in other countries

THE Ministry of Finance took a wise decision in amending the fees for using state property, especially along the coastline. This issue has long been debated, as Kuwaiti beaches are currently used haphazardly, limiting citizens’ freedom to enjoy them properly. In many countries, laws prohibit the exploitation and monopolization of coastal areas by individuals or companies. Even private property along the shore is regulated because these spaces are considered public and meant for everyone’s enjoyment, with no one allowed to monopolize them.

Even buildings near the beaches must follow specific guidelines. The distance between the structure and the shoreline should range from 500 to 1,000 meters. Construction of fences that block the sea view is strictly prohibited. In Kuwait, an unsightly practice has been prevalent for over 40 years - the chaotic construction of chalets along the seashore, resembling refugee camps. These chalets have disregarded citizens’ right to enjoy the beaches. In France, for example, there are strict regulations related to the many benefits of beaches. Limits are set on the percentage of beach areas that can be built upon to preserve public access for walking and sea views.

The same applies in Spain, where the state prohibits exploitation of coastal areas, designating them exclusively for tourism and recreation. Similarly, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia enforced these measures in Jeddah by ordering the demolition of palaces and chalets built directly on the beach, including properties owned by princes, businessmen, and influential figures. The state compensated them with land farther inland to ensure public access to the beaches.

Optimal use of public marine property greatly benefits the state. Beyond providing tourist and recreational opportunities, it boosts economic activity. Unfortunately, Kuwait has yet to realize these benefits. With the new amendments in place, there is hope for a tourism strategy that boosts the gross domestic product (GDP) and enables the development of resorts and hotels overlooking public beaches, without restricting people’s freedom to walk and enjoy the coast.

On the other hand, the Ministry of Finance’s decision may negatively impact food and industrial security. Maintaining the current fees on farmers and agricultural voucher beneficiaries adds pressure to a sector that is of utmost importance to Kuwait. Ensuring a supportive environment for farmers and voucher holders should be a part of the country’s strategic security framework. Despite the availability of sufficient land, over 51 percent of Kuwait’s area consists of desert that could be reclaimed. Kuwait still imports about 95 percent of its agricultural consumption. Properly utilizing these lands would bring significant benefits to the nation. Maintaining the high fees on agricultural vouchers without reduction, coupled with scarcity of treated water, frequent power outages, and lack of protection for agricultural production, ultimately drives up the cost of food production.

In contrast, neighboring countries with similar climatic conditions have developed strategies to protect food security. For example, agriculture and fishing contributed AED 13.24 billion to the UAE’s GDP in 2023. While raising fees on coastal front properties aims to regulate and prevent uncontrolled beach exploitation, the Ministry of Finance’s recent decision poses a major challenge to food security. A comprehensive study must be conducted before implementing fee and tax increases to ensure sustainable social security, particularly in the entertainment and food security sectors.