Security Deposits in Kuwait (2026 Legal Guide) — Rules & Requirements
About this article
Sourced from Kuwaiti national legislation, Amiri decrees, and ministerial decisions. Written in plain language for general understanding — this is educational content, not legal advice. Our editorial standards
What is this right?
Security deposits in Kuwait are governed by the lease terms and general civil law — there is no specific deposit statute:
- Most landlords require a deposit of 1 to 2 months' rent.
- The deposit must be returned when the lease ends, minus lawful deductions for damage beyond normal wear and tear.
- The landlord cannot use the deposit for normal maintenance or minor age-related repairs.
- The terms for holding and returning the deposit should be explicitly written in the contract.
- Unlike some jurisdictions, Kuwait has no requirement for landlords to hold deposits in a separate account.
When does it apply?
- You paid a security deposit at the start of your tenancy.
- Your lease is ending and you want your deposit returned.
- Your landlord is withholding your deposit and you disagree with the deductions.
What to Do If Your Landlord Refuses to Return Your Security Deposit in Kuwait
- Get a receipt for the deposit when you pay it.
- Take photos of the property when you move in and when you move out to document condition.
- Request a written list of deductions if the landlord withholds any part of your deposit.
- If the landlord refuses to return the deposit, file a claim with the Rent Disputes Committee at the Kuwait Municipality.
What should you NOT do?
- Do not pay a deposit without a receipt — you need proof of payment.
- Do not leave the property damaged — repair anything you caused to avoid deductions.
- Do not wait too long to claim your deposit — pursue it promptly after moving out.
About Housing Rights in Kuwait
If your landlord is threatening eviction, arbitrarily raising the rent, or refusing essential repairs, you have legal recourse. Law No. 35 of 1978 strictly limits evictions and prohibits self-help measures like changing locks or cutting utilities. You have the right to remain in your home under your existing lease terms unless a court orders otherwise. Document all interactions and escalate unresolved disputes to the Rent Disputes Committee at the Municipality.
Resolve your dispute officially using our Legal Letter Generator.
Common Questions
What is the security deposit rules right in Kuwait?
Security deposits in Kuwait are governed by the lease terms and general civil law — there is no specific deposit statute:Most landlords require a deposit of 1 to 2 months' rent.The deposit must be returned when the lease ends, minus lawful deductions for damage beyond normal wear and tear.The landlord cannot use the deposit for normal maintenance or minor age-related repairs.The terms for holding and returning the deposit should be explicitly written in the contract.Unlike some jurisdictions, Kuwait has no requirement for landlords to hold deposits in a separate account.
When does it apply — security deposit rules?
You paid a security deposit at the start of your tenancy.Your lease is ending and you want your deposit returned.Your landlord is withholding your deposit and you disagree with the deductions.
What should I do if my landlord is withholding my security deposit in Kuwait?
Get a receipt for the deposit when you pay it.Take photos of the property when you move in and when you move out to document condition.Request a written list of deductions if the landlord withholds any part of your deposit.If the landlord refuses to return the deposit, file a claim with the Rent Disputes Committee at the Kuwait Municipality.
What should you NOT do — security deposit rules?
Do not pay a deposit without a receipt — you need proof of payment.Do not leave the property damaged — repair anything you caused to avoid deductions.Do not wait too long to claim your deposit — pursue it promptly after moving out.