Minimum Wage in Kuwait: Rates, Trends & Compliance

What Is the Minimum Wage in Kuwait?

As of May 1, 2025, Kuwait's minimum wage rates are as follows:

• Private Sector Workers (Kuwaiti nationals and expatriates): 75 Kuwaiti Dinars (KWD) per month (approximately USD 248)
• Domestic Workers: 60 KWD per month (approximately USD 198)

While the minimum wage in Kuwait is relatively modest compared to global standards, it is important to note that Kuwait does not impose personal income taxes, which can offset the lower wage levels. Additionally, the cost of living in Kuwait is generally lower than in many Western countries, which may influence the adequacy of the minimum wage for local workers.

Average vs Reasonable vs Typical Minimum Wages

In Kuwait, the terms "average," "reasonable," and "typical" wages can vary greatly depending on the industry and type of employment. Here’s how they differ:

• Average Minimum Wage: In 2025, the average minimum wage in Kuwait is approximately 75 Kuwaiti Dinars (KWD) per month, which is equivalent to about USD 248. This rate applies to all private sector workers, including both nationals and expatriates.
 
• Reasonable Minimum Wage: A "reasonable" wage in Kuwait might refer to salaries that are deemed acceptable by local labor standards and are often higher than the minimum wage set for domestic workers. For skilled workers in sectors such as construction or office administration, wages can range significantly higher depending on experience and job type.
 
• Typical Minimum Wage: This would generally align with the wage paid to lower-skill workers in Kuwait. For example, non-citizen manual laborers might be earning slightly above the domestic worker’s wage of , but it can vary based on the nature of the work and employment contracts.

How Does Minimum Wage Apply to Different Workers in Kuwait?

Full-Time Employee Wages

Kuwait does not have an official minimum wage law for general workers. Full-time employees typically earn wages based on their skills and industry. Wages are often stipulated by employer-employee contracts and can range from around KWD 300 to KWD 600 per month for skilled labor positions in sectors like construction, healthcare, or administration.

Part-Time Employee Wages

Part-time employees in Kuwait are typically compensated on an hourly basis, and employers must adhere to the contractual wage agreed upon between the employee and employer. Part-time wages are usually calculated based on the full-time wage rate for similar jobs, prorated accordingly.

Interns and Trainees

Interns and trainees in Kuwait are not explicitly entitled to minimum wage under Kuwaiti law. However, internships and training periods are often unpaid unless the employer chooses to provide a stipend or compensation, especially for foreign interns. It's common for companies to offer stipends that are below the national minimum wage but still provide support for living expenses.

Expats

Kuwait’s minimum wage laws for expatriates are mainly focused on domestic workers, who have a legally defined minimum wage of KWD 60 per month. For other expatriates, wages are typically negotiated at the time of employment and are often higher than the minimum wage for domestic workers.

Minimum Wage for Top Paying Roles in Kuwait?

 
• Surgeons: Approximately KWD 1,500 per month, depending on experience.
 
• Engineers: Around KWD 800 to KWD 1,200 per month.
 
• Executive Roles: Senior executives and managers in large companies can earn KWD 2,000 or more per month.

Factors Influencing Minimum Wage in Kuwait

Industry-Specific Variations

In Kuwait, wages vary widely depending on the industry. Sectors such as oil and gas, finance, and healthcare tend to offer higher wages compared to labor-intensive industries such as construction or agriculture. Foreign domestic workers also have a fixed minimum wage of KWD 60 per month, as set by law.

Economic Conditions

Economic conditions in Kuwait influence the wage structure, especially for expatriates. When the economy is performing well, wages in sectors like oil, gas, and finance tend to rise due to demand for skilled professionals. Conversely, in times of economic downturn, wages may remain stagnant or even decrease in some sectors.

Government Policies and Legislation

The Kuwaiti government enforces wage standards for foreign domestic workers but leaves other sectors to be regulated by employment contracts. Government policies related to labor laws and expatriate worker regulations can also affect wages.

Tax Implications of Minimum Wage

Kuwait does not impose income tax on individuals, including expatriates, which means that workers earning the minimum wage are not subject to income tax. However, employers must adhere to other regulations, such as providing health insurance for expatriates and paying into the social security system for Kuwaiti nationals.

Minimum Wage History and Trends in Kuwait

Kuwait has not introduced a national minimum wage law for its local workforce, though there are legal provisions for foreign domestic workers. As of January 1, 2025, the minimum wage for private sector employees is set at 75 Kuwaiti Dinars (KWD) per month, approximately USD 248 . For domestic workers, the minimum wage is 60 KWD per month, about USD 198 .

How To Stay Compliant When Hiring in Kuwait With Playroll

Expanding your business internationally is exciting, but it comes with the challenge of understanding complex legal and payroll requirements. One of the hurdles is ensuring you comply with local minimum wage laws. Playroll makes this process easier by acting as your trusted Employer of Record:

 
• Scale Your Global Team: Legally hire and onboard employees in 180+ regions, ensuring full compliance with local labor laws, tax regulations, and statutory benefits.
 
• Pay Your Team Accurately: Your global workforce is always paid on time, and we ensure continuous compliance with local minimum wage and tax laws.
 
• Guaranteed Legal Compliance: Our comprehensive compliance checks and expertly crafted contracts guarantee your agreements meet local legal standards, including minimum wage laws, tax regulations, and benefits. This way, you can focus on growing your business without worrying about compliance risks.