Kuwait raises minimum marriage age to 18

Dubai: Kuwait has officially raised the minimum age for marriage to 18, following legislative amendments aimed at protecting children’s rights and strengthening family stability, Minister of Justice Nasser Al Sumait announced.

The government has finalised changes to Article 26 of Personal Status Law No. 51/1984 and Article 15 of Jaafari Personal Status Law No. 124/2019, ensuring that no marriage can take place before the age of 18.

The move aligns with Kuwait’s international commitments, including the Convention on the Rights of the Child and the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women.

Al Sumait cited concerning statistics on child marriage in Kuwait, revealing that 1,145 underage marriages were registered in 2024, including 1,079 girls and 66 boys.

Studies also showed that divorce rates among minors are double that of adults, reinforcing the need for legislative intervention to ensure that spouses reach emotional and social maturity before marriage.

The minister emphasised that the legal reform is rooted in Kuwait’s constitutional commitment to protecting families and children.

Article 9 of the Constitution defines the family as “the foundation of society” and mandates state protection of motherhood and childhood, while Article 10 reinforces the government’s duty to prevent exploitation and neglect of minors.

By raising the marriage age, Al Sumait said, Kuwait is taking a decisive step toward safeguarding young people, reducing divorce rates, and promoting family stability.

"This amendment reflects Kuwait’s commitment to international standards that protect children from early marriage. It is expected to enhance family cohesion, reduce divorce rates, and support social development, reinforcing Kuwait’s vision of a strong and sustainable society," he stated.