Kuwait’s Communications and Information Technology Regulatory Authority (CITRA) has introduced a new regulatory framework for mobile number portability (MNP) aimed at strengthening competition among telecom operators and enhancing consumer choice. The rules allow users to retain their mobile numbers when switching service providers, reinforcing a more user-centric telecom market.
The regulation sets out detailed technical, procedural, and regulatory requirements for number portability, clearly defining the roles and responsibilities of licensed operators and intermediaries. It also includes safeguards to protect user rights, ensure transparency, maintain data confidentiality, and align with CITRA’s best practices.
Under the new framework, both prepaid and postpaid users, as well as data-line subscribers, can transfer their numbers after 50 days from initial activation. Subsequent transfers are permitted 90 days after a previous switch. Users may also change their subscription type, from prepaid to postpaid or vice versa, during the transfer process.
A key feature of the regulation is the “one station” model, under which the receiving operator manages the entire transfer process and automatically cancels the customer’s previous contract once the transfer is completed. Number transfers must be executed within 12 hours, and users can choose a preferred transfer date within 30 days of submitting their request.
CITRA has set a maximum transfer fee of five Kuwaiti dinars per successful number port, payable only to the receiving operator. Donor operators are prohibited from charging fees. The authority retains the right to revise the maximum fee in the future. Operators are also barred from contacting customers to influence their decision or offering incentives without prior regulatory approval.
The regulation requires licensed intermediaries to operate and maintain a central number portability database and to submit regular performance and service-level reports. Any violations may result in penalties under Law No. 37 of 2014 and its amendments.
CITRA said the new MNP rules reflect Kuwait’s commitment to fair competition, consumer protection, and the continued modernization of its telecommunications and digital infrastructure.
