Kuwait has witnessed a significant decline in traffic accidents, fatalities, and traffic offenses during the first half of 2025, marking a sharp improvement in road safety compared to the same period last year. This positive trend follows the implementation of a stringent new traffic law introduced in late April, which imposed harsher penalties and fines for violations, leading to safer driving behaviour across the country.TL;DR:
- Traffic accidents dropped 45% in the first six months of 2025, falling from 2,511 incidents in 2024 to 1,383 this year.
- Traffic-related deaths declined by 34%, with fatalities dropping from 143 in early 2024 to 94 in the same period of 2025.
- Traffic offenses decreased by 16%, from 1.97 million to approximately 1.66 million citations, with especially steep reductions in May and June after full enforcement of new laws.
Detailed decline in accidents, deaths, and offenses
As mentioned by a local news outlet Kuwait Times, according to Colonel Fahad Al-Issa, head of the traffic awareness department, the introduction of tough new traffic legislation on April 22, 2025, has had a rapid and marked effect on motorists’ behaviour. Traffic accidents plummeted by 45%, recording just 1,383 crashes in the first half of 2025, down from 2,511 in the corresponding months of 2024.Similarly, the number of deaths from road accidents fell sharply by 34%, to 94 fatalities compared to 143 last year. The most dramatic improvements were observed in May and June, the first full months under the new law’s enforcement. Deaths in May halved to 11 from 22 the previous year, while June fatalities plunged 75%, from 20 to 5.Traffic violations, monitored extensively by traffic cameras and enforcement systems, also significantly declined. The total offenses for the six-month period reached about 1.66 million, down 16% from nearly 1.97 million in the first half of 2024. In May, camera-recorded violations dropped by 59% to 126,000 from 308,000, and in June, offenses fell 53% to 164,000 from 349,000 the year prior.
The impact of new traffic laws and penalties
The new traffic law, which increased fines and penalties severalfold, especially for serious infractions such as running red lights, speeding, and failure to wear seat belts has been credited for these improvements. Enforcement measures combined with public awareness campaigns have encouraged safer driving practices, contributing to fewer crashes and deaths.Colonel Al-Issa highlighted that the law’s deterrent effect continues to strengthen, particularly as drivers adjust to the harsher consequences of risky driving. The general public’s response has been described as largely positive, signalling a cultural shift towards compliance with traffic regulations.Kuwait’s road safety progress in early 2025 aligns with broader government strategies to enhance traffic management and public safety. The authorities continue to invest in advanced monitoring technologies and awareness programs aimed at sustaining and improving these trends. Efforts are ongoing to maintain collaboration between traffic departments, law enforcement, and community stakeholders to further reduce road accidents and fatalities. This sustained focus supports Kuwait Vision 2035 goals centered on safety, economic diversification, and infrastructure developmentThe first half of 2025 has brought a promising reduction in traffic accidents, fatalities, and violations in Kuwait, thanks to robust legislative reforms and enforcement. With a 45% drop in accidents and a 34% decrease in deaths, Kuwait’s roads are demonstrably safer, reflecting successful governmental and community commitment to traffic safety.These statistics underscore the critical role of strong legal frameworks backed by enforcement and public awareness, setting Kuwait on course for continued improvements in road safety throughout the year.
FAQ
- 1. By how much have traffic accidents decreased in Kuwait during early 2025?
Traffic accidents dropped by 45% in the first half of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024, falling from 2,511 incidents to 1,383. - 2. What was the reduction in traffic-related deaths reported?
Traffic fatalities declined by 34%, decreasing from 143 deaths in early 2024 to 94 in the first six months of 2025. - 3. What impact did the new traffic law have on these improvements?
The new traffic law, implemented in late April 2025 with tougher penalties for violations, was credited for changing driver behaviour and significantly reducing accidents, deaths, and violations. - 4. How much have traffic offenses reduced following the new regulations?
Traffic violations fell by 16%, from about 1.97 million citations to around 1.66 million in the first half of 2025, with especially steep declines observed in May and June. - 5. Are these positive road safety trends expected to continue?
Yes, ongoing enforcement, public awareness campaigns, and investment in monitoring technology aim to sustain and improve road safety in alignment with Kuwait’s Vision 2035 goals.
