Latest news with #Municipal Council
Al Bawaba
3 days ago
- Business
- Al Bawaba
KIB announces Municipal Council's approval of its initiative to beautify and develop Darwaza Al-Abdulrazzaq Tunnel
Kuwait International Bank (KIB) announced that the Municipal Council has approved its initiative to carry out the beautification and development of 'Darwaza Al-Abdulrazzaq', fully funded by the Bank. This step reflects KIB's steadfast commitment to its national and social responsibility, as part of the Kuwaiti private sector, and its keenness to actively contribute to projects that enhance Kuwait's urban landscape and serve the public Al-Abdulrazzaq is a vital landmark in the heart of Kuwait City. This gives it particular significance in terms of pedestrian movement and business activity. The site also carries historical value, reflecting the architectural heritage of the city, making its development a truly national project that reinforces the features of Kuwaiti on this occasion, KIB Vice Chairman and CEO, Raed Jawad Bukhamseen, said: 'We are pleased to announce the esteemed Municipal Council's approval of KIB's initiative to develop Darwaza Al-Abdulrazzaq. This initiative reflects the Bank's vision of supporting projects that serve the community and enhance the quality of life in Kuwait. It stems from our deep belief in the vital role the private sector plays in supporting the State's efforts, whether through planning, implementation, or funding, which we view as a fundamental aspect of our national responsibility. The significance of this project goes beyond urban beautification. It also represents a meaningful contribution to preserving Kuwait's historical landmarks and reinforcing their presence in daily life, underscoring our commitment to promoting and preserving national identity.' Bukhamseen added: 'This initiative aligns directly with KIB's vision of promoting both social and economic growth by supporting efforts that contribute to creating a better urban environment and reflecting the cultural image of our city. With its symbolic location and rich history, Darwaza Al-Abdulrazzaq deserves to be revitalized and restored to its role as a city landmark'. He also noted that KIB has expressed its full readiness to cover all costs associated with the project, including contracting with specialized companies and consultancy firms to ensure the highest standards of quality under the direct supervision of the esteemed relevant official emphasized the importance of public-private partnerships in driving development forward, stating: 'At KIB, we believe that our responsibility extends beyond providing financial services. It includes supporting State efforts on all fronts. This initiative is a clear embodiment of that role and a reaffirmation that the private sector is a key partner in comprehensive development.'Boukhamseen extended his sincere thanks and appreciation to His Excellency the Minister of State for Municipal Affairs and Minister of State for Housing Affairs, Mr. Abdul Latif Hamed Hamad Al-Mashari, for his generous support and constructive cooperation, which had a significant impact in advancing this project forward. He also expressed his deep gratitude to the esteemed Council of Ministers for their continued support and endorsement of purposeful initiatives that serve the interests of the nation and its concluded his remarks saying: 'We are proud of KIB getting the approval for this initiative and look forward to launching the project soon in full coordination with the relevant government authorities, foremost among them the Kuwait Municipality. We believe this project will be a point of interest for the entire Kuwaiti society and serve as a testament to KIB's ongoing dedication to supporting sustainable growth and national prosperity.' It is worth noting that KIB continues to strengthen its role as a committed national partner in community development through initiatives that extend their impact across various aspects of public life. The Bank affirms that social contribution is not a choice, but a national duty that requires the concerted efforts of all.
Times of Oman
7 days ago
- Times of Oman
Al Manakhir Village: A sustainable tourism destination in Al Jabal Al Akhdar
Al Jabal Al Akhdar: Nestled in A'Dakhiliyah Governorate's Al Jabal Al Akhdar, Al Manakhir village has emerged as a premier sustainable tourism destination, renowned for its breathtaking natural landscapes and diverse terrain that attract nature enthusiasts and travellers alike. The village is surrounded by indigenous flora including ancient trees such as wild olive (Al Utum), wild berries (Al Boot) and Al'alan tree (Juniperus Excelsa). Local residents maintain traditional agricultural practices, cultivating pomegranates, peaches, apricots, olives, and walnuts alongside livestock rearing - activities that collectively form the economic backbone of the community. Strategically located in the eastern part of Al Jabal Al Akhdar, Al Manakhir holds the distinction of being the first village in the region to greet the sunrise and the primary destination for visitors arriving via the Birkat Al Mouz - Al Jabal Al Akhdar route. Ahmed bin Hamad Al Nabhani, Municipal Council representative for Al Jabal Al Akhdar, highlighted the village's rich historical and cultural heritage: "Al Manakhir boasts seven mosques, including the architecturally significant Al Bilad Mosque that reflects the village's religious identity. Notable landmarks include the restored Al Ghaba Tower in 2010 and Mitrah Boukbeer - the area's largest seasonal waterfall during wadi flows.' Al Nabhani told Oman News Agency (ONA) that Al Manakhir connects to multiple villages across A'Dakhiliyah and South Al Batinah governorates through established trails including Wadi Mistal in Nakhal, Wadi Halfin to Samail, Wadi Bani Kharus to Al Awabi, and Imti village to Izki. These routes, marked with directional signage by the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, have become popular for hiking and mountaineering while facilitating discovery of the area's historical sites. Mahmoud bin Salim Al Toubi, a village resident, emphasized Al Manakhir's year-round agricultural appeal: "The village has become a sustainable tourism magnet through its harvest seasons - roses, pomegranates, olives, grapes, peaches and walnuts - complemented by agricultural trails offering adventurous exploration of mountainous terrain and historical landmarks.' He added that the village's ancient irrigation systems form another attraction, with notable aflaj (ancient irrigation system or water channels) including Al Manakhir Falaj, Ain Al Biban, Ain Al Rassa, Kour Al Madhaf, Wadi Al Rumana Dam, and Al Biban Dam sustaining the agricultural landscape. These traditional water management systems demonstrate centuries-old Omani hydraulic engineering while supporting the village's agro-tourism offerings. Tourism officials note that Al Manakhir's combination of natural assets, cultural heritage, and sustainable agricultural practices positions it as a model for community-based tourism development in Oman's mountainous regions. The village continues to attract growing numbers of domestic and international visitors seeking authentic cultural experiences amid spectacular highland scenery.
Zawya
16-07-2025
- Business
- Zawya
New building rules aim to modernize Kuwait's urban system
KUWAIT CITY - In a key step toward urban development, the Municipal Council, headed by Abdullah Al-Mahri, approved new investment housing requirements as part of revised building regulations during its main session held on Monday. The Council affirmed that the existing building regulations are undergoing a comprehensive review and amendment process to align with the state's current development goals and future urban aspirations. Among the approved changes is Table No. (2), outlining updated requirements and specifications for investment housing projects both inside and outside Kuwait City. The aim is to enhance economic returns and diversify building uses within this sector. The new regulations include several major updates: Compensation for commercial stores will be increased by sixfold, offering greater incentives for investment. Building percentages for residential care properties will rise by 50 percent, improving housing capacity and efficiency. Basements and additional floors may now be utilized to better serve residents, including provisions for people with disabilities. The Council also decided to prohibit the merging of commercial activities within a single building, while expanding permitted investment uses to include societies, libraries, and playgrounds. Furthermore, a new classification — studio apartments — was added under investment housing. Additionally, the Council approved an increase in commercial activities allowed on the first and second floors of investment housing buildings — from 16 to 22 activities — broadening the scope of mixed-use development. In related decisions, the Council approved a request by the Public Authority for Youth to designate a location for the Kuwait Technical Complex for Entrepreneurship in the Mubarak Al-Abdullah Al-Jaber area and amend components of the project accordingly. Other approvals included: A special proposal regarding investment housing parking lots. The allocation of an emergency lane on main roads to establish a dedicated emergency corridor. A donation by Kuwait International Bank to beautify and develop the Abdul Razzak Gate, contributing to urban aesthetics and public space enhancement. These measures reflect Kuwait's ongoing commitment to modernizing infrastructure and advancing urban planning to meet both economic and social development objectives. Arab Times | © Copyright 2024, All Rights Reserved Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
