KUWAIT CITY, Sept 14: The General Administration of the Coast Guard has officially begun enforcing financial penalties and criminal sanctions against marine vessel owners who have not installed the Automatic Identification System (AIS) device.

As per Ministerial Resolution No. 410 of 2024, all marine vessels operating within Kuwaiti territorial waters are now required to have the AIS device installed. Lieutenant Colonel Abdulaziz Haider of the Maritime Transport Department explained, "We initially warned and announced this requirement in May. Now, in September, sufficient time has been given for vessel owners to comply and avoid legal actions. The decision is now in effect."

In a statement to Kuwait TV's Al-Akhbar channel, Haider added, "Owners who fail to install the AIS device will have their transactions halted. The device must be active during sailing and throughout the vessel's time at sea. It plays a crucial role in safeguarding Kuwaiti waters and the lives of seafarers." He further noted that failure to comply could result in legal action and fines of up to 500 Kuwaiti dinars.

Major Haider also mentioned that a grace period has been extended for the registration of new marine vessels, which will conclude at the end of the year. He urged vessel owners to renew and register in order to avoid penalties.

However, exemptions have been granted to owners of cruisers, boats under 16 feet, and jet skis, who are not required to install the AIS device.

The Ministry of Interior has mandated the installation of the AIS device for all marine vessels outlined in Ministerial Resolution No. 410 of 2024, regardless of their size or type, whether stationary or in motion. The AIS device is designed to provide real-time information on a vessel’s identity, location, and speed, ensuring safer navigation at sea.