KUWAIT: President of Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) Sheikh Humoud Mubarak Humoud Al-Jaber Al-Sabah explored on Tuesday with British Ambassador to Kuwait Belinda Lewis strengthening cooperation in fields of civil aviation. DGCA said in a press release that both sides discussed during the meeting ways to enhance the bilateral relation to achieve the desired economic feasibility, adding that they will provide all facilities to encourage airlines to increase operation and flights. Lewis praised the DGCA’s cooperation and role towards advancing bilateral relations, and supporting operations of British Airways. She expressed her support to increase flights between the two countries to cover new destinations and airports in the UK to serve students, tourists and businessmen. The UK is one of Kuwaitis’ top choices for study and tourism. In 2023, there were nearly 9,000 post-secondary Kuwaiti students enrolled in British institutions. The same year, the UK welcomed 152,000 visits from Kuwait. During the travelers’ visits, their total expenditure was £414.7 million (about KD 166 million). The two countries marked 125 years of relations in September.— Agencies

As of Thursday, Feb 1, 2024, Kuwaiti nationals can enter the UK with an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA). Priced at a modest £10 (approximately KD 4), the ETA opens up opportunities for unlimited short trips to the UK. This includes visits of up to six months for tourism, family and friend visits, educational purposes, business activities or as a transit point to another destination. The ETA remains valid for two years or until the expiry of the passport used for application, whichever comes first.