Kuwait amends compulsory military service law for its citizens
Kuwait's army has announced amendments to its compulsory military service law, aiming to address shortcomings observed during its implementation.
The Kuwaiti military has announced significant amendments to the compulsory military service law following the issuance of Law Decree No. 9 of 2026. This legal revision is intended to enhance the national service system, making it more effective and aligned with current realities. The changes emerged from the military's diligence in reviewing the initial law's application, recognizing the need for adjustments to ensure better functionality.
One key aspect of the amendments is the extension of mandatory military service to all male citizens who reach the age of 18, specifically those born after January 1, 2012, effectively excluding earlier birth dates. This change aims to standardize service obligations while concurrently nullifying prior exceptions that were inconsistently applied. Furthermore, the revisions include provisions that ensure enlisted employees maintain their salaries and benefits throughout their service period, ensuring financial stability for those fulfilling their military obligations.
Additionally, the revisions allow for the national service period to count towards the overall service years, which can be significant for career and retirement calculations. The law also introduces an exemption clause for only sons, alleviating the burden on families with single male heirs. Overall, these amendments reflect Kuwait's ongoing efforts to streamline its military service regulations and respond to both practical challenges and societal needs.