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Find out moreWelcome to this edition of Law Update, where we focus on the ever-evolving landscape of financial services regulation across the region. As the financial markets in the region continue to grow and diversify, this issue provides timely insights into the key regulatory developments shaping banking, investment, insolvency, and emerging technologies.
2025 is set to be a game-changer for the MENA region, with legal and regulatory shifts from 2024 continuing to reshape its economic landscape. Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Egypt, Iraq, Qatar, and Bahrain are all implementing groundbreaking reforms in sustainable financing, investment laws, labor regulations, and dispute resolution. As the region positions itself for deeper global integration, businesses must adapt to a rapidly evolving legal environment.
Our Eyes on 2025 publication provides essential insights and practical guidance on the key legal updates shaping the year ahead—equipping you with the knowledge to stay ahead in this dynamic market.
In 2016, a Saudi national holding a PhD. in laboratory medicine filed an application with the Kuwaiti Medical Licensing Department for a license to open a private medical centre in Kuwait. His application was denied on the basis that he did not meet the condition that the license applicant be a Kuwaiti doctor, as set out under a Ministerial Decision that sets out the requirements and conditions for healthcare facilities.
The Saudi national argued to the courts that the ministerial decision was contrary to Kuwaiti law and the relevant GCC agreements that provide for equality of treatment for GCC citizens, without distinction or discrimination, in several fields, including work in private and government jobs, engagement in professions and crafts and engagement in economic, investment and service activities. The Kuwait Court of Cassation agreed that domestic laws restricting the practice of certain professions, such as medicine, to their own citizens, excluding other GCC nationals, must be disregarded.
Al Tamimi’s Healthcare Practice operates in each jurisdiction across the region. Our specialist healthcare lawyers in our Kuwait office can assist you with the necessary steps to open a healthcare facility in Kuwait. For more details on our offering and how we can assist you, please contact us at healthcare@tamimi.com.
Christina Sochacki
Senior Associate, Healthcare
c.sochacki@tamimi.com
Philip Kotsis
Partner, Co-Head of Office – Kuwait, Corporate Commercial
p.kotsis@tamimi.com
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