Kuwait imposes fine on women driving with niqab

The Kuwaiti government has imposed a fine on women who wear the niqab while driving, citing traffic safety concerns as the primary reason for the measure.

The Ministry of Interior stated that face coverings may obstruct a driver’s view and make it difficult for law enforcement to identify traffic violators while enforcing the law.

According to authorities, this significant move aims to enhance road safety and promote responsible driving.

IIt added that violators would be fined between 30 to 50 Kuwaiti dinars under traffic laws.

The reconciliation order was set at 15 dinars, with no penalty of imprisonment.

Read: Kuwait bans Call of Duty Black Ops 6 over portrayal of Saddam Hussein, Gulf War

Notably, wearing a niqab and covering the face while driving was banned in Kuwait in 1984, but the social media debate regarding the practising traffic laws prompted the authorities to interpret the aim of the said law again.

Officials stated that the measure aims to improve road safety, as wearing a niqab or burqa while driving disturbs drivers' vision on the road, diverts their attention, and increases the risk of traffic accidents.

The ministry noted that camera surveillance has highlighted various driving difficulties faced by those wearing full-face coverings.

Read: Kuwaiti brand says "haya" means life and "halwa" translates to beautiful

According to them, the decision was aimed at ending the longstanding debate on the rule of law and traffic monitoring.

The ministry clarified that the policy was initially put in place for security purposes, as face coverings hindered police from recognising drivers. Nonetheless, it mentioned that with the inclusion of policewomen today, confirming a driver’s identity became easier.