As the holy month of Ramadan unfolds in full swing, a misleading claim began circulating widely on social media in Kuwait, suggesting that organisers of Ramadan gatherings without a permit could face up to KD 1,000 (about $3,260) in fines and six months in jail. However, the Kuwaiti Ministry of Interior has categorically denied this information, labelling it completely false and unfounded. The ministry’s statement stressed that no such penalties or directives have been issued and urged the public to avoid spreading unverified reports, especially those concerning security and legal matters.
In its official clarification, the General Department of Public Relations and Security Media made it clear that no decision, circular or action from authorities imposes criminal punishment on Ramadan organisers simply for hosting events without a permit.
The ministry reminded citizens and residents that official policies and regulatory measures are only communicated through accredited, verified channels and that rumours can cause confusion and unnecessary public concern if shared recklessly.
Why this Ramadan fine rumour spread in Kuwait
Rumours like the one about hefty fines and jail time often gain traction during major cultural or religious occasions, such as Ramadan, because of heightened public attention and anxiety around rules and social norms.
In recent years, authorities in the Gulf have prosecuted certain public conduct violations during the fasting month (such as eating, drinking or smoking in public), with penalties typically much lower and clearly defined by law, usually involving fines or short detentions when individuals break public decency laws. However, nothing in Kuwait’s current legal framework supports the specific claim of six-month sentences and KD 1,000 fines merely for hosting gatherings.
The phenomenon of misinformation spreading via social platforms is not new, authorities across the region, including in the UAE, have previously warned the public about Ramadan-related scams and fake posts that exploit religious sentiments to mislead people or extract personal information. For example, the Abu Dhabi Police have publicly cautioned against fraudulent Ramadan competitions and fake charity links, reminding residents to verify information before acting on or sharing it.
How Kuwait is preparing for Ramadan 2026
Amid the misinformation, officials are also focused on real preparations for the holy month. Beyond clarifying false claims, government departments are moving forward with established regulatory and public safety measures, such as ensuring food safety compliance, traffic adjustments and social-services readiness in anticipation of Ramadan gatherings, fasting adjustments and community needs. While regulatory frameworks exist for public conduct during religious occasions, they are communicated through formal announcements, not
viral social posts.
By debunking the false reports early, Kuwaiti authorities aim to protect public understanding and trust, ensuring that residents are informed by official directives rather than rumours. The Ministry of Interior’s statement acts as both a reassurance to the community and a reminder of the importance of verifying information in an age where social media can easily amplify unconfirmed claims.
The claim that Ramadan organisers in Kuwait could face KD 1,000 fines and six months in jail is false as no such penalty has been issued by government authorities. The Ministry of Interior stressed that official rulings are only communicated through accredited channels and urged the public not to share unverified reports. Misinformation about Ramadan rules and penalties regularly circulates on social media across the Gulf, prompting authorities to warn against scams and fake posts.
While Ramadan does involve cultural norms and legal expectations, any penalties or regulations are clearly outlined by official government announcements and not retroactive social media claims.
