Claiming Rent Arrears in Kuwait

How can landlords recover unpaid rent? A legal guide to the procedures for claiming rent arrears in Kuwait under the applicable law.

Labor, Rent, Family & Property · By Fahad Alhaddad Law Firm · Published 2026-09-28 · Updated 2026-09-28

A landlord’s right to receive rent is a cornerstone of the lease agreement. When a tenant falls behind on payments, the Real Estate Rental Law (Law No. 35 of 1978, as amended) provides mechanisms for pursuing your entitlement.

Documentation and Amicable Requests for Payment

Always begin by documenting the matter and making a documented, amicable request for payment. Formal correspondence can support your position if the matter develops into a court dispute.

Regularly maintain clear records of payments received and amounts outstanding.

Formal Notices to the Tenant

Serving a formal notice on the tenant is a crucial legal step. The law prescribes specific methods for serving these notices to ensure their legal validity.

The notice gives the tenant a statutory period to pay and lays the groundwork for the landlord’s position before the court later.

Filing a Claim for Rent Arrears

If the tenant continues to withhold payment, the landlord may file a court claim for the outstanding rent. A request for eviction may also be included, depending on the circumstances and the law.

The court examines the agreements entered into and the information submitted, then issues its judgment ordering payment.

The Importance of Accurate Legal Drafting

Drafting a statement of claim and legal submissions requires precision. Minor errors may delay judgment or lead to dismissal of the claim.

We always recommend reviewing all procedures with a specialist to avoid wasting your time or money.

Our Legal Support for Landlords

We provide comprehensive consultations for landlords on following up with tenants and recovering arrears. Upload your legal case file, and we will analyse it and provide an action plan.

We help you manage your property disputes with professionalism and a high level of expertise.

Frequently asked questions

What is the first step in recovering unpaid rent?

Make a formal, documented demand for payment to the tenant, followed by a legal notice if the tenant does not respond.

Can the tenant’s assets be attached?

If a court judgment has been obtained, compulsory enforcement proceedings may be initiated under the applicable laws.

Related guides

This article is general information, not legal advice, and does not replace consultation with a lawyer licensed in Kuwait. The official Arabic legal texts prevail over any English explanation.