Kuwait’s waterfront is poised for a refresh with exciting new investment opportunities announced by the Touristic Enterprises Company (TEC). Among these, a particularly notable project involves the potential revival of the long-abandoned Rays-One restaurant site in Blajat, a location fondly remembered by many Kuwaitis. This move signals a broader effort to revitalize coastal areas and attract both local and international investment in the country’s tourism and leisure sectors.
A New Chapter for the Iconic Rays-One Restaurant
For decades, the skeletal structure of Rays-One has been a fixture – and a point of curiosity – along the Blajat coastline. Once a popular dining destination in the 1990s, the restaurant closed its doors nearly ten years ago, leaving the building to fall into disrepair. Despite the 2023 inauguration of the larger Blajat development project, the former restaurant remained, covered but untouched, prompting questions about its future.
Now, TEC is actively seeking investors to breathe new life into the space. The tender specifies a complete overhaul: the existing structure must be demolished and rebuilt, fully equipped, and operated as a restaurant. This isn’t simply a renovation; it’s a ground-up opportunity to create a modern dining experience while honoring the legacy of the location. The site itself is substantial, covering 1,082.52 square meters, offering ample space for a significant establishment.
Investment Requirements and Expectations
Interested companies will need to demonstrate financial stability, with a minimum paid-up capital requirement of KD 200,000. TEC is looking for a long-term commitment to the project, and a successful bid will result in a partnership focused on creating a destination that enhances Kuwait’s culinary landscape. The company emphasizes the importance of maintaining the restaurant function, suggesting a desire to fill a gap in the local dining options. This project represents a key component of Kuwait’s broader tourism development plans.
Expanding Opportunities at the Fahaheel Sea Club
The announcement doesn’t stop at Rays-One. TEC is also inviting bids for two additional projects located within the established Fahaheel Sea Club. This club, a cornerstone of Kuwait’s maritime leisure scene since 1979, is itself undergoing a period of modernization, with recent tenders issued for upgrades to its marina and fuel station.
The Fahaheel Sea Club is a well-known hub for yacht owners and sailing enthusiasts, boasting a members-only marina capable of accommodating 194 medium-sized boats. Its exclusive nature adds to its appeal, and the new restaurant and cafeteria are intended to further enhance the experience for its members and visitors.
New Dining Options for Sea Club Members
The first of these new ventures is a 210.76 square meter restaurant offered under a 15-year usufruct agreement. This long-term lease provides security for investors and encourages substantial investment in the facility. The second opportunity is a 256.95 square meter cafeteria, requiring a minimum paid-up capital of KD 100,000. Both projects aim to cater to the needs of the Sea Club’s active community and contribute to its overall vibrancy. These additions will complement the existing coastal attractions in the Fahaheel area.
Tender Details and Application Process
The deadline for submitting bids for all three projects – the Rays-One restaurant site, the Fahaheel Sea Club restaurant, and the cafeteria – is Sunday, January 25, 2026. TEC has outlined specific requirements for potential bidders to ensure a competitive and qualified selection process.
Companies must be legally established in Kuwait, possessing valid commercial licenses and registrations. Furthermore, a KD 20,000 unconditional and irrevocable initial bid bond, issued by a Kuwaiti-approved bank, is required. This bond must remain valid for 120 days following the bid submission deadline, providing assurance to TEC of the bidder’s serious intent. Detailed tender documents and application guidelines are available through TEC’s official channels. This initiative is a significant step in Kuwait’s investment landscape.
Looking Ahead: Revitalizing Kuwait’s Coastline
The TEC’s announcement represents a positive sign for Kuwait’s tourism and leisure industries. The revival of the Rays-One site, in particular, taps into a sense of nostalgia while promising a modern and appealing dining experience. Coupled with the developments at the Fahaheel Sea Club, these projects demonstrate a commitment to enhancing Kuwait’s coastal offerings and attracting both domestic and international visitors.
The success of these tenders will depend on attracting investors with a clear vision and the financial capacity to deliver high-quality facilities. However, the potential rewards – both economic and in terms of enhancing Kuwait’s reputation as a tourist destination – are substantial. Keep an eye on these developments as they unfold, signaling a new wave of investment and revitalization along Kuwait’s beautiful coastline.