13 expat workers die, several others hospitalised in Kuwait after suspected toxic alcohol consumption

63 people were poisoned as investigators trace the source of the contaminated drinks

Last updated: August 13, 2025 | 20:54

Khitam Al Amir, Chief News Editor

1 MIN READ

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Dubai: At least 13 expatriate workers from Asian countries have died and dozens of others have been hospitalised in Kuwait after consuming alcohol tainted with methanol, the Ministry of Health said on Wednesday.

Since Saturday, hospitals have treated 63 cases linked to the contaminated beverages, the ministry said, adding that it has been working in coordination with the Kuwait Poison Control Centre, security agencies and other authorities.

Also Read: 7 dead in Jordan after drinking methanol-tainted alcohol from licensed factory

Patients have shown a range of symptoms. Thirty-one required mechanical ventilation, while 51 underwent emergency dialysis. Twenty-one have suffered permanent blindness or severe vision loss.

Authorities have opened an investigation to determine the source of the alcohol and identify those involved in its distribution, warning the public about the dangers of consuming unregulated alcoholic drinks.

The Health Ministry urged the public to immediately report any suspected cases of methanol poisoning by contacting hospitals or calling dedicated hotlines.

Khitam Al AmirChief News Editor

With over 30 years of journalistic experience spanning from Jordan to the UAE, Khitam has spent the past 22 years reporting on national and regional news from Dubai, with a strong focus on the UAE, GCC and broader Arab affairs. As Chief News Editor, she brings extensive expertise in delivering breaking and engaging news to readers. Beginning her tenure as a translator, she advanced through roles as Senior Translator and Chief Translator before transitioning to editorial positions, culminating in her current leadership role. Her responsibilities encompass monitoring breaking news across the UAE and the broader Arab region, ensuring timely and accurate dissemination to the public. Born into a family of journalists, Khitam's passion for news was ignited early in life. A defining moment in her youth occurred in September 1985 when she had the opportunity to converse with the late British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher during her visit to a Palestinian refugee camp north of Amman. During this encounter, Khitam shared her family's experiences of displacement from their home in Palestine and their subsequent refuge in Jordan. This poignant interaction not only deepened her understanding of geopolitical issues but also solidified her commitment to pursuing a career in journalism, aiming to shed light on the stories of those affected by regional conflicts. Khitam’s commitment to accurate and timely reporting drives her to seek out news that interests readers, making her a trusted source for news on the UAE and the broader Gulf region.

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