Kuwait Enacts Law Mandating 120-Day Retention of CCTV Footage

Kuwait City, Kuwait Jul 30, 2026 ALN: Kuwait has amended its law regulating security cameras and surveillance systems, requiring establishments covered under the legislation to retain CCTV recordings for at least 120 consecutive days, according to a new decree-law published in the Official Gazette Kuwait Alyoum on Wednesday.

Decree Law No. 76 of 2026 amends provisions of Law No. 61 of 2015 governing the installation and regulation of security cameras and monitoring devices. Under the revised law, businesses and establishments subject to its provisions are prohibited from altering, deleting, erasing, or processing surveillance recordings by any means during the 120-day retention period.

The explanatory memorandum accompanying the amendments indicates that the changes were introduced to address shortcomings in the existing law, which had been identified after practical experience showed that the previous retention period was often insufficient. This was particularly evident in cases where victims delayed reporting incidents due to the nature or circumstances surrounding the event. The need for a longer retention period reflects an understanding of the complexities involved in criminal investigations, where evidence can be critical in establishing timelines and identifying suspects.

The revised Article 5 extends the mandatory storage period to ensure that investigators and courts can access surveillance footage when required. This change is crucial in a landscape where digital evidence plays an increasingly pivotal role in the judicial process. Under Article 6, establishments must provide relevant recordings upon the order of investigative authorities or a competent court. This provision underscores the importance of collaboration between private entities and law enforcement in the pursuit of justice.

The memorandum further explains that the longer retention period is intended to simplify access to CCTV evidence when needed, while also ensuring that storage requirements are proportionate to the nature of each establishment's activities. This reflects a balanced approach to regulation, recognizing that not all businesses operate under the same conditions and that the nature of their operations should inform the level of surveillance required.

The decree also introduces two new provisions aimed at enhancing compliance and accountability. Under Article 8 bis, the General Directorate of Security Systems is empowered to approve or reject settlement requests submitted by owners of establishments that violate the law. This provision allows for a degree of flexibility in enforcement, enabling businesses to rectify violations without facing severe penalties immediately. Applications must be filed within seven working days from the date a violation report is issued, allowing violators to correct the breach within 30 days, except in cases involving violations of Articles 6 and 9, which are likely deemed more serious.

Once a settlement is approved, the related criminal case against the violator is terminated, which can provide a significant incentive for compliance. The newly added Article 8 bis (1) establishes the civil liability of establishment owners, requiring them to pay the approved settlement amount for damages resulting from non-compliance with the law after the competent authority accepts the settlement. This introduces a financial accountability aspect, encouraging businesses to take their surveillance obligations seriously.

The amendments aim to strengthen compliance with surveillance regulations, improve access to evidence during criminal investigations, and enhance public safety across Kuwait. The introduction of these measures comes at a time when many countries are grappling with the balance between privacy rights and the need for security. In the context of rising crime rates and public safety concerns, the Kuwaiti government is taking steps to ensure that law enforcement has the necessary tools to investigate crimes effectively.

The implications of this law extend beyond just compliance; they also touch upon broader societal issues. The retention of CCTV footage for an extended period can aid in establishing a sense of security among the public, as individuals may feel more protected knowing that there is a system in place to monitor and respond to criminal activities. However, it also raises questions about privacy and the potential for misuse of surveillance data. The government will need to ensure that adequate safeguards are in place to protect individuals' privacy rights while allowing for effective law enforcement.

Moreover, the law's implementation will likely lead to discussions around the ethical use of surveillance technology. As the line between public safety and individual privacy continues to blur, stakeholders, including policymakers, civil rights advocates, and the general public, will need to engage in ongoing dialogues about how best to navigate these challenges. The potential for surveillance data to be misused or abused could lead to calls for stricter regulations or oversight mechanisms to ensure that such technologies are used responsibly.

Furthermore, the economic impact of these amendments should not be overlooked. Businesses will need to invest in adequate storage solutions and potentially upgrade their surveillance systems to comply with the new requirements. This could lead to increased operational costs, particularly for smaller establishments that may struggle to meet these new obligations. The government may need to consider providing support or guidance to help these businesses adapt to the new regulations, including possible financial assistance or technical resources to facilitate compliance.

In conclusion, Kuwait's enactment of Decree Law No. 76 of 2026 represents a significant step in enhancing the regulatory framework governing surveillance systems within the country. By mandating a 120-day retention period for CCTV footage and introducing provisions for accountability and compliance, the government aims to bolster public safety and improve the effectiveness of criminal investigations. As Kuwait navigates the challenges of modern surveillance, the balance between security and privacy will be a critical consideration in the implementation of these new regulations. The ongoing evaluation of these laws will be essential to ensure that they serve the intended purpose without infringing upon the rights of individuals, thereby fostering a safe yet respectful environment for all citizens.