By: Salman Almutairi
KUWAIT, Aug 19 (KUNA) — Al-Ahmadi Governor Sheikh Hamoud Jaber Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah stated that the restoration of the historic Al-Ahmadi Market and Al-Ahmadi Cinema underscores Kuwait’s dedication to protecting its cultural legacy. He expressed appreciation for the backing provided by the Council of Ministers, as well as the Ministries of Information and Oil, and other involved institutions.
Speaking after the signing of a supervision agreement between the Kuwait Oil Company (KOC) and the National Council for Culture, Arts and Letters (NCCAL), Sheikh Hamoud highlighted that the initiative follows Cabinet Resolution No. 927, issued on July 8, 2025. The project is designed to revive significant landmarks that represent pivotal moments in the nation’s development.
KOC Chief Executive Ahmad Al-Aidan explained that the company’s involvement reflects its broader social responsibility and commitment to sustainable progress. He outlined that the restoration will take place over four years in stages, aiming to create a cohesive cultural destination that enhances Kuwait’s global standing.
Dr. Mohammad Al-Jassar, Secretary-General of NCCAL, described the site as one of the most notable historical locations in the governorate. He mentioned that limited operations in certain buildings are expected to commence next year, progressing through Zone 2 and Zone 3 toward full functionality.
He emphasized that the endeavor demonstrates Kuwait’s resolve to conserve its architectural history and elevate Al-Ahmadi as a center of cultural significance. It also supports ongoing efforts to seek UNESCO World Heritage status for the city.
Engineer Batool Ashour, Architect and Development Project Manager at the Al-Ahmadi Cultural Platform, noted that the initiative documents a transformative phase in building a modern, comprehensive cultural and heritage hub. This is being achieved through coordination with specialists and support from national institutions.
She added that NCCAL is responsible for evaluating the historical importance of structures and planning museum components. The Council reached out to the United Nations and UNESCO two years ago to initiate the nomination process, and an official visit by representatives from these bodies has already taken place as a preliminary step.
— news from Kuwait News Agency
— News Original —
Al-Ahmadi Governor: restoring Al-Ahmadi historical sites preserves Kuwait’s cultural identity
By: 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. (end) r nslm.onm