By: Salman Almutairi \nKUWAIT, Aug 19 (KUNA) — Al-Ahmadi Governor Sheikh Hamoud Jaber Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah emphasized on Tuesday that the restoration of the historic Al-Ahmadi Market and Al-Ahmadi Cinema underscores Kuwait’s dedication to safeguarding its cultural legacy. He acknowledged the backing of the Council of Ministers, as well as the Ministers of Information and Oil, and other involved institutions. \nSheikh Hamoud Al-Sabah made the remarks after the Kuwait Oil Company (KOC) and the National Council for Culture, Arts and Letters (NCCAL) signed an agreement to oversee the project’s execution. He noted the initiative aligns with Cabinet Resolution No. (927) issued on July 8, 2025. \nKOC Chief Executive Ahmad Al-Aidan stated that the company’s involvement reflects its commitment to national heritage preservation and sustainable progress. \nHe outlined that the restoration will take four years and proceed in stages, aiming to deliver a comprehensive development that enhances Kuwait’s international standing. \nDr. Mohammad Al-Jassar, Secretary-General of NCCAL, described the rehabilitation of the old market and cinema as central to the governorate’s historical landscape. \nHe mentioned that limited operations in certain buildings are expected to commence next year, with progress continuing through Zone 2 and Zone 3 toward full functionality. \nAl-Jassar emphasized that the initiative demonstrates Kuwait’s resolve to protect its architectural legacy and elevate Al-Ahmadi as a cultural and civilizational hub, supporting efforts to secure UNESCO World Heritage status for the city. \nEngineer Batool Ashour, Architect and Development Project Manager at the Al-Ahmadi Cultural Platform, explained that the project captures a pivotal era in Kuwait’s urban and cultural evolution, presented through modern planning. \nShe highlighted collaboration with specialists and Kuwaiti authorities, noting the Council’s responsibility in evaluating the historical significance of structures, museums, and other components. \nAshour added that the Council initiated contact with the UN and UNESCO two years ago to propose Al-Ahmadi for inclusion based on its historic buildings. \nA site visit by representatives from these organizations has already occurred as a preliminary step toward nomination. (end) \nslm.onm\n\n— News Original —\nAl-Ahmadi Governor: restoring Al-Ahmadi historical sites preserves Kuwait’s cultural identity\nBy: Salman Almutairi r nKUWAIT, Aug 19 (KUNA) — Al-Ahmadi Governor Sheikh Hamoud Jaber Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah affirmed on Tuesday, that the project to restore the old Al-Ahmadi Market and Al-Ahmadi Cinema reflects Kuwait’s keenness to preserve its heritage and cultural identity, appreciating the support of the esteemed Council of Ministers, the Ministers of Information and Oil, and all relevant entities. nSheikh Hamoud Al-Sabah told KUNA, following the signing of the supervision agreement for the implementation of the project between the Kuwait Oil Company (KOC) and the National Council for Culture, Arts and Letters (NCCAL), that the initiative comes in implementation of Cabinet Resolution No. (927) issued on July 8, 2025. nFor his part, the CEO of KOC, Ahmad Al-Aidan, told KUNA that the company’s participation in this project stems from its national and social role in preserving Kuwaiti heritage and promoting sustainable development. nHe explained that the work on this project will span four years and will be carried out in phases, aiming to implement an integrated project that will elevate the name of the country. nMeanwhile, Secretary-General of NCCAL, Dr. Mohammad Al-Jassar, said that the restoration and rehabilitation project of the old Al-Ahmadi Market and Al-Ahmadi Cinema is one of the most prominent historical landmarks in the governorate. r nHe indicated that partial operation of some buildings will begin next year, with work progressing through the following stages (Zone 2 and Zone 3) toward full and sustainable operation. nAl-Jassar added that the project reflects Kuwait’s commitment to preserving its architectural heritage and enhancing Al-Ahmadi’s status as a cultural and civilizational landmark, supporting efforts to nominate Al-Ahmadi City for inclusion on the UNESCO World Heritage List. nIn turn, the Architect and Development Project Manager at the Al-Ahmadi Cultural Platform within the Council, Engineer Batool Ashour, told KUNA that the project represents documentation of a phase that marks the beginning of a comprehensive cultural, social, and heritage city project in a modern form. r nThis is being achieved through collaboration with experts, specialists, and the support of official Kuwaiti institutions, she noted, stating that one of the Council’s roles is to determine the historical value of the buildings, as well as to assess museums and other components. r nShe noted that the Council had contacted the UN and UNESCO two years ago to nominate the city of Al-Ahmadi for its historical buildings and landmarks. r nA visit to the city by representatives of these organizations has already taken place as a step preceding the nomination. 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