Kuwait imposes 20-day 'total curfew' to curb coronavirus

Kuwait will impose a 20-day "total curfew" from Sunday, May 10, as part of its efforts to combat the spread of COVID-19.

Starting 4:00 pm on Sunday, the nationwide curfew will run for 16-hours daily, the cabinet said, adding that the public sector will be allowed to work remotely until May 31.

Essential sectors like health, security, electricity, oil and municipal services, as well as private sector companies providing vital services like maintenance will be exempt from the curfew, interior minister Anas al-Saleh added during a televised news conference.

All banks will remain closed, with services provided online.

All supermarkets will remain open during the curfew with move permits allotted to families to buy essentials. 

People will need to wear face masks and will be able to go out for walks between 4:30 pm and 6:30 pm.

So far, the country has recorded 7,208 positive cases and 47 deaths.