Kuwait’s biggest festival rocked by scandal: 15 arrested for allegedly rigging Ya Hala draws December 09, 2025 at 02:05AM

Kuwait authorities have arrested 15 individuals in connection with the Ya Hala raffle scandal, part of the country’s most famous shopping festival. Investigations revealed bribery, forgery, and misuse of official positions to direct prizes to select beneficiaries. The case, covering multiple draws and substantial prizes, highlights vulnerabilities in commercial promotions and ongoing efforts to restore public trust.