CSC Kuwait exempts stranded employees abroad, counts absence as ‘actual working service’ until return

The Civil Service Commission, Kuwait has issued a new directive addressing the situation of government employees who remain stranded outside the country due to exceptional regional circumstances that have led to the closure of airspace and disrupted travel.

In an official circular dated 8 March 2026, the Commission informed ministries, government departments, public authorities, and public institutions that employees unable to return because of the ongoing situation will be treated in accordance with External Circular No. (4) of 2026.

Dr. Essam Saad Abdulrahman Al‑Rubayan, President of the Civil Service Commission urged all government entities to take the necessary action to implement the instructions.

Under the directive, employees who are outside the country and unable to return due to these exceptional circumstances will be considered exempt from work, and this period will be counted as actual working service until they are able to return once airspace reopens or alternative travel arrangements become available.

The Commission clarified that the duration of the exemption will depend on the employee’s approved leave period or whether the period coincides with an official public holiday. Upon their return, employees must report the matter to their direct supervisor or relevant administrative authority.

Administrative affairs departments or the concerned organizational units have also been instructed to record the situation formally. Employees must provide documentation confirming that they were outside the country during the disruption so that the period can be registered as actual service in government automated systems, in line with procedures outlined in Circular No. (4) of 2026.

The directive further notes that employees whose approved leave has not yet concluded will continue their leave until its scheduled end. After that, the newly outlined procedures will apply.

The clarification comes as governments across the region continue to adjust administrative procedures in response to ongoing disruptions affecting travel and workforce availability.