Kuwait Introduces Fine for Women Driving in a Niqab or Burqa Over Vision Risk

The Kuwaiti Ministry of Interior has introduced a new traffic rule that imposes fines on women who drive while wearing a niqab or burqa. The regulation, aimed at enhancing road safety and ensuring easier driver identification, has sparked debate among citizens.

New Traffic Rule and Fines

Under the new rule, women who drive while covering their faces will be fined between 30 and 50 Kuwaiti dinars (approximately PKR 13,200 to PKR 22,000). However, those who settle their fine immediately can pay a reduced penalty of 15 dinars (around PKR 6,600). Importantly, the rule does not include any jail time for violators.

Why Has Kuwait Introduced This Rule?

Authorities cite two main reasons for implementing this regulation:

Road Safety: Covering the face while driving may limit peripheral vision, making it harder for drivers to stay alert and react to road conditions. Reduced visibility can increase the risk of accidents.

Driver Identification: Wearing a niqab can make it difficult for surveillance cameras to recognize drivers, complicating traffic law enforcement. With growing concerns over traffic violations and security, authorities see this rule as a necessary step.

Public Reaction: Mixed Opinions

The decision has received divided opinions from the public:

Supporters argue that safety should come first, and any rule that reduces accidents and improves law enforcement is beneficial.

Critics claim that the law is unfair to women who wear the niqab for religious or personal reasons. Some see it as an infringement on personal freedoms.

Part of a Larger Traffic Law Overhaul

This regulation is part of Kuwait’s broader initiative to modernize its traffic laws and improve public safety. The Ministry of Interior has urged all drivers to follow the new rule to ensure safer roads and smoother traffic regulation enforcement.

As discussions continue, the new rule highlights the balance governments must strike between public safety and individual rights. Will this law prove effective, or will it lead to further debate? Only time will tell.

Afsheen Gohar

Afsheen Gohar is a seasoned writer with a wealth of experience in crafting authentic and well-researched articles. Her dedication to delivering high-quality content is evident in her work, where she combines a passion for storytelling with a commitment to accuracy and depth. Afsheen’s writing reflects her ability to engage readers with compelling narratives while providing valuable insights on a diverse range of topics.