Transport in Kuwait

Transport in Kuwait is well-developed and continuously expanding to meet the needs of its growing population and economy. The country’s transportation network is centered around Kuwait City and extends across urban, coastal, and desert regions, connecting major residential and industrial areas with key ports and border crossings.

Road Transport

Kuwait has one of the most extensive and modern road systems in the Gulf region, with highways and expressways connecting all major cities and towns. The Ministry of Public Works oversees the maintenance and development of the road network, which includes ring roads and major routes linking Kuwait City with the oil fields, industrial zones, and neighboring countries such as Saudi Arabia and Iraq.
Despite the modern infrastructure, heavy traffic congestion is common during peak hours, and road safety remains a public concern, prompting ongoing government efforts to improve traffic management and enforcement.

Public Transportation

Public transport in Kuwait mainly consists of buses and taxis. The Kuwait Public Transport Company (KPTC) and CityBus provide local and intercity bus services with regular routes throughout the country. Ride-hailing services such as Careem and Uber are also popular alternatives for commuters and visitors.

Air Transport

Kuwait International Airport serves as the country’s primary gateway for air travel, located about 16 km south of Kuwait City. Operated by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), the airport has undergone major expansions to accommodate growing passenger traffic and improve facilities. Kuwait Airways, the national carrier, operates both domestic and international routes, connecting the country to major global destinations.

Maritime Transport

Given its strategic position on the Arabian Gulf, Kuwait’s maritime transport sector plays an important role in trade and logistics. Major ports include Shuwaikh Port, Shuaiba Port, and the newer Mubarak Al Kabeer Port on Boubyan Island. These ports handle the majority of the country’s imports and exports and are managed by the Kuwait Ports Authority. Passenger ferries and private boats also operate along the coastline for leisure and short-distance travel.

Future Developments

Kuwait is investing in several large-scale transport projects, including the long-term Kuwait Metro and national railway network, which aim to reduce traffic congestion, support economic diversification, and enhance connectivity with neighboring Gulf states.