Kuwait keen to up ‘waqf’ initiatives

By the Editorial Team · Wednesday, October 21, 2026

Kuwait pledged to boost collaboration among GCC countries to advance Islamic affairs, particularly focusing on developing waqf endowment initiatives, during the 12th GCC Islamic Affairs Ministers meeting in Bahrain. The discussions included innovative proposals such as using AI for waqf management and establishing a national index to measure the social impact of endowments, aiming to enhance transparency and community engagement across the region.

Kuwait has expressed its commitment to enhance cooperation among Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries in the field of Islamic affairs, with a particular focus on the development of waqf (endowment) initiatives, according to a statement by Kuwait’s Minister of Awqaf and Islamic Affairs, Dr. Mohammad Al-Wasmi. The remarks were made following his participation in the 12th GCC Islamic Affairs Ministers meeting held on October 20 in Manama, Bahrain.

During the meeting, which brought together representatives from GCC member states, discussions centered on improving the management and international promotion of Islamic endowments to support community development. A key topic addressed was the potential role of artificial intelligence in overseeing waqf assets, reflecting an interest in integrating advanced technologies to optimize endowment administration.

Dr. Al-Wasmi highlighted several Kuwaiti proposals presented at the meeting, including an initiative by the General Secretariat of Endowments to establish a national index measuring the social impact of endowments. This index aims to increase public awareness of charitable activities, volunteerism, and waqf contributions within the region.

The ministers also reviewed agenda items under the purview of the GCC’s permanent committee of specialists in Islamic affairs and endowments, alongside interactive seminars designed to foster communication and exchange knowledge among experts in the field.

In addition to Kuwait’s proposals, the meeting considered a submission from Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance concerning cultural dialogue between Eastern and Western societies. The ministers further discussed plans for creating a Gulf scientific observatory to enhance research and collaboration on related issues.

The gathering underscored the GCC’s ongoing efforts to strengthen unity and coordinate policies among member states in matters related to Islamic affairs and social development through waqf and related initiatives.

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