Oversight of travel sector stepped up • GCC moves toward unified aviation authority
KUWAIT: Kuwait’s civil aviation regulators are tightening oversight of the local travel market amid rising complaints against unlicensed agents, even as Gulf states advance plans for deeper regional cooperation through a proposed unified GCC Civil Aviation Authority.
The Public Authority for Civil Aviation (PACA) has intensified action against travel-sector violations following an uptick in grievances related to fraudulent bookings, fake online ticket sales and unlicensed brokers. The authority’s complaint and arbitration committee has issued a series of penalties in recent weeks targeting violators across the sector.
On Oct 22, 2025, the committee acted against 66 violations committed by travel agents, including breaches of social media licensing rules, while two individuals were referred for prosecution over business license violations. A second wave of penalties was issued on Nov 13, covering eight travel agents and one aviation company for noncompliance with relevant regulations.
Abdullah Al-Rajhi, PACA’s Director of Air Transport and head of the committee, said the authority maintains an updated database of 890 licensed entities, including 728 travel offices, 89 shipping offices and 73 airlines — all subject to ongoing oversight. Speaking to KUNA, Al-Rajhi stressed that the authority plays a “holistic control role” in monitoring the air transport market to protect travelers’ rights and prevent malpractice.
Abdullah Al-Rajhi
Between January and September 2025, PACA’s grievance department received 3,012 complaints, many linked to cyber scams involving fake payment links, misleading ads, and unlicensed brokers. The authority is coordinating with the Communication and Information Technology Regulatory Authority (CITRA) to combat such schemes.
He urged travelers to book only through licensed offices, verify ticket details and avoid dealing with individuals or unofficial platforms. PACA’s future plans include enhancing electronic monitoring systems, boosting cooperation with security and commercial bodies and expanding public awareness campaigns.
Chairman of the Kuwait Travel and Tourism Agencies Association Mohammad Al-Mutairi warned that unlicensed agents and brokers continue to damage the reputation of Kuwait’s travel sector. He said key grievances include fake tickets, sudden cancellations, and deceptive online promotions. However, he noted that complaints have declined significantly compared with last year due to coordinated efforts by the association and government agencies.
Meanwhile, GCC states are moving toward broader regional coordination in the aviation sector. During the 21st meeting of the GCC Executive Committee for Civil Aviation, held in Kuwait on Thursday, the committee recommended establishing a unified GCC Civil Aviation Authority. The recommendation will be submitted to the GCC Supreme Council for final approval.
Kuwait Civil Aviation Authority President Sheikh Humoud Mubarak Al-Sabah said the unified authority would strengthen integration among Gulf states and elevate safety, security and operational standards across the region’s air transport network. He highlighted the growing role of artificial intelligence and digital technologies in improving efficiency and passenger experience, noting that GCC states must align regulations and systems to keep pace with technological change.
Sheikh Humoud also congratulated Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Qatar on securing seats on the ICAO Council for 2025-2027, and commended Oman and Bahrain for recent achievements at the ICAO Assembly. He noted that Kuwait recently passed its ICAO security audit with scores exceeding regional and global averages and received the ICAO Council President’s Award for excellence in aviation security.
GCC Assistant Secretary-General for Economic and Development Affairs Khalid Al-Sanidi said the region’s aviation sector has expanded significantly, now comprising more than 23 international airports and 17 national carriers, six of which rank among the world’s top 50 airlines. GCC airlines carried around 68 million passengers in 2023. The meeting also reviewed 2026 aviation events, cooperation with the Civil Air Navigation Services Organization (CANSO), and other matters aimed at strengthening regional integration and global representation. – KUNA
