Kuwait introduces new tinting rule for cars: What drivers need to know before hitting the road

Proper tinting can also help protect a car’s interior from sun damage and provide added comfort for passengers.

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Kuwait has officially raised the legal limit for window tinting on vehicles to 50 per cent , following the publication of Resolution No. 1398/2025 in the official gazette “Kuwait Alyoum.” The measure, signed by First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousef, marks a significant revision to the country’s traffic law and brings clarity to motorists seeking enhanced comfort and privacy.TL;DR:

• Kuwait now permits up to 50 per cent window tinting for all vehicles, except for the front windshield.
• Tinted windows must be within factory specifications and cannot be reflective.
• The decision takes effect immediately, as published in the government’s official gazette.
  

Details of the new window tinting rule

Under the new amendment to Article 46-bis of Ministerial Resolution No. 76/1981, all types of vehicles are allowed to have tinted glass in line with manufacturer (factory) specifications. Colored foils can be applied, provided the overall tint level does not exceed 50 per cent . Importantly, the front windshield that faces the driver must remain clear and transparent, conforming to established Gulf standard safety requirements.
Reflective glass or tinted foils that create a mirrored, shiny effect remain strictly banned. This provision is intended to safeguard public safety by maintaining visibility for both drivers and law enforcement officials.

Implementation and guidelines

The acting undersecretary of the Ministry of Interior is tasked with enforcing the new regulation, which took immediate effect upon its publication in the official gazette on August 17, 2025. Car owners and workshops are expected to adhere strictly to these rules, ensuring that any tinting work does not exceed the legal limit or involve prohibited reflective materials.
Motorists are encouraged to confirm that films used comply with approved specifications to avoid future fines or regulatory issues. The amendment aims to balance the benefits of window tinting such as reduced heat, UV protection, and increased privacy with road safety considerations.

What is window tinting?

Window tinting involves applying a thin, often colored or darkened film to the inside of car windows. The primary purposes are to reduce glare, improve privacy, block ultraviolet (UV) rays, and minimize heat buildup inside the vehicle. Proper tinting can also help protect a car’s interior from sun damage and provide added comfort for passengers. However, regulations vary worldwide to ensure that tinting does not hinder driver visibility or law enforcement’s ability to see into vehicles for safety reasons.Kuwait’s updated window tinting law offers greater flexibility and comfort for vehicle owners, aligning with broader Gulf regional standards while upholding transparency and road safety. The regulation is now in force, and drivers are advised to check compliance when installing or updating window tinting.