These indicators reflect Kuwait’s commitment to Vision 2035 as a global financial and investment hub
Kuwait has reached remarkable completion rates across several Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) indicators, according to a new report.
The Statistical Center for the Cooperation Council for the Arab Countries of the Gulf (GCC-Stat) has disclosed that the nation has achieved a remarkable 100 percent in crucial areas, such as the proportion of births attended by qualified medical personnel, the percentage of households with access to essential services, and the proportion of individuals benefiting from safely managed drinking water and electricity services. Moreover, Kuwait has successfully registered all births for children under five in the civil registry, fully adopted and implemented national disaster risk reduction strategies by local governments, and achieved a 100 percent treatment rate for hazardous waste.
Alignment with Kuwait Vision 2035
In a report released in conjunction with the celebration of Kuwait’s National Day on Tuesday, the Center noted that these indicators reaffirm Kuwait’s dedication to Kuwait Vision 2035, which aspires to position Kuwait as a leading global financial and investment hub. This vision emphasizes a private sector-driven economy, promotes human development, enhances competitiveness, and improves production efficiency. Additionally, it aims to create a robust institutional framework that upholds national values, safeguards social identity, encourages human development, and provides the requisite infrastructure for a dynamic and advanced business environment.
Economic indicators and global rankings
According to data from the GCC Statistical Center, Kuwait’s total government revenue constituted 32.4 percent of GDP, while the labor share in GDP was recorded at 22.9 percent. In 2023, Kuwait’s total government expenditure was approximately US$85.543 billion. The non-oil sector contributed 48.8 percent to GDP at current prices, with the GDP per capita reaching US$36,700. The inflation rate in the country was noted at 3.6 percent. Kuwait holds the top global position in the ICT Development Index 2023 and 5G Technology Leadership 2023, ranking third globally in the 2024 Tax Policy Index and 11th in the 2024 Public Finance Index.
Kuwait remains steadfast in aligning the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) with its Kuwait Vision 2035, demonstrating its belief that sustainable development is vital for long-term growth and prosperity for future generations. The national development plan comprises 164 development projects and 30 strategic initiatives. These initiatives aim to establish a special international economic zone, enhance the capabilities of citizens and institutions, create environmentally sustainable residential areas, and bolster a dynamic private sector while promoting public-sector privatization. Additionally, the plan emphasizes improving public health and well-being, cultivating a transparent and interconnected government, building robust infrastructure, and enhancing global engagement.
Advancements in energy and education
Kuwait is actively executing five clean and sustainable energy projects, including the Shagaya Renewable Energy Complex, which stands as one of the largest solar energy projects in the nation. The third phase of this project is anticipated to be completed in 2025. In the realm of education, Kuwait has inaugurated Abdullah Al-Salem University, which plays a vital role in preparing a skilled workforce to enrich the labor market. The university boasts three research centers, including the Cybersecurity and Digital Transformation Center, the Data Science and Artificial Intelligence Center, and the Energy, Resources, and Sustainability Center.
Commitment to future infrastructure projects
Kuwait is currently undertaking the establishment of five sustainable health cities, which will comprise 89,000 residential units. Among the nation’s ambitious infrastructure projects is the Doha Seawater Desalination Plant, designed to utilize groundwater treatment to produce 60 million imperial gallons of fresh water daily. Another significant project is the Al-Wafra Power Plant, an essential part of the GCC electricity interconnection system, which will facilitate electricity exports beyond the GCC region, starting with southern Iraq, at an estimated cost of US$270 million. These large-scale projects underscore Kuwait’s unwavering commitment to economic diversification, sustainability, and technological advancement, laying the groundwork for a more prosperous future.