Do Kuwait's Private Sector Laws Apply to You?

Kuwait's Law No. 6 of 2010 applies to all workers in the private sector, regardless of nationality, including expats (Article 2). A "worker" is defined under Article 1 as any male or female person performing manual or mental work for an employer under their direction — so most expat employees in private companies are covered.

However, there are important exceptions. Domestic workers (housemaids, drivers, etc.) are explicitly excluded from this law's protections (Article 5) and are governed by separate ministerial decisions. Workers already covered by other specific laws — such as those in the oil sector or maritime sector — are primarily governed by their respective laws, with Law No. 6 of 2010 applying only where it offers better protections or where no specific provision exists (Articles 3 and 4).

Practically speaking, if you work for a private company in Kuwait (in an office, retail, construction, or similar setting), this law is your primary legal protection. Always check your employment contract, as Article 6 confirms that any benefits in your contract that exceed the law's minimums remain valid — the law sets a floor, not a ceiling.