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About KWI
Kuwait International Airport (KWI) is the main airport serving Kuwait City and the State of Kuwait. The airport has undergone significant modernization with the opening of Terminal 4 (T4) in 2018, a dedicated facility for Kuwait Airways designed by Foster + Partners. The original Terminal 1 continues to handle most other airlines. A massive new terminal (Terminal 2) designed by Foster + Partners is under construction and will eventually replace all existing facilities with a capacity of 25 million passengers. KWI is a hub for Kuwait Airways and Jazeera Airways.
Hub For
Terminals
Terminal 1
The main terminal handling most international and low-cost carriers. The facility is aging but functional, with ongoing renovations to improve passenger experience until the new Terminal 2 opens.
Terminal 4 (Kuwait Airways)
A modern dedicated terminal for Kuwait Airways, designed by Foster + Partners and opened in 2018. Features a distinctive triangulated roof structure, spacious lounges, and premium facilities throughout.
Minimum Connection Times (MCT)
Airlines at KWI
Getting There & Away
Taxis, ride-hailing (Careem), hotel shuttles, KPTC public buses
Taxi
$10-18
20-30 min to city center
Public Transport
$0.50-1
40-60 min to city center
Popular Destinations
Parking at KWI
Multi-story parking available at both Terminal 1 and Terminal 4. Open parking lots also available....
Terminal 1 Multi-Story Parking
Terminal 4 Parking
Economy Open Parking
Airport Lounges
Kuwait Airways Dasman Lounge
Terminal 1
Kuwait Airways' premium lounge in the new T4 featuring contemporary Kuwaiti design, hot buffet with Arabic and international dishes, private rest rooms, shower suites, and views of the runway through floor-to-ceiling windows.
Pearl Lounge
Terminal 2 (Domestic)
Located in Terminal 1 departures area. Offers a hot and cold buffet, shower facilities, and comfortable seating. A reliable option for passengers using T1 airlines.
Al Mubarakiya Lounge
Terminal 2 (Domestic)
Independent lounge in Terminal 1 with Arabic coffee, snacks, hot meals, and a quiet atmosphere. Named after Kuwait's famous traditional market.
Where to Stay
Connected Hotels
Safir Airport Hotel
Connected to Terminal 1 via covered walkway
The only hotel directly connected to the airport terminal. Modern rooms, multiple restaurants, fitness center, and pool. Day rooms available by the hour for short layovers.
Nearby Hotels
Crowne Plaza Kuwait Airport
Adjacent to airport, 5-minute drive
Full-service IHG hotel near the airport with comfortable rooms, restaurant, pool, and gym. Free airport shuttle runs every 30 minutes.
Food & Dining
Mais Alghanim
Kuwaiti/Lebanese
Terminal 1 (Airside)
Famous Kuwaiti restaurant chain serving authentic Kuwaiti and Lebanese cuisine including machboos, hummus, grills, and fresh juices.
24/7
Burger Boutique
American/Burgers
Terminal 1 (Airside)
Popular Kuwaiti gourmet burger chain offering premium burgers, loaded fries, and milkshakes. A local favorite with generous portions.
10:00 AM - 12:00 AM
Starbucks
Cafe/Coffee
Terminal 2 (Domestic) (Airside)
Full Starbucks menu with coffee, frappuccinos, pastries, and sandwiches. Reliable option for a quick coffee before your flight.
5:00 AM - 11:00 PM
Car Rental
Hertz
Arrivals Hall, Terminal 1
Main counter in T1 arrivals. Shuttle to T4 available. International driving permit required for most non-GCC licenses.
Avis
Arrivals Hall, Terminal 1
Counter in T1 with shuttle to T4. Petrol is very cheap in Kuwait. GPS rental recommended as Kuwait roads can be confusing.
What to Do During a Layover
Explore the City
These activities require leaving the airport. Make sure you have valid visa and enough time before your next flight.
The Avenues Mall
One of the largest malls in the Middle East, located just 10 minutes from the airport. Features over 1,100 stores, restaurants, an ice rink, and entertainment zones. Perfect for a shopping layover.
Souq Al-Mubarakiya
Kuwait's oldest traditional market in the heart of the city. Browse spices, dried fruits, gold, perfumes, and traditional crafts. Excellent street food stalls serve local dishes.
Kuwait Towers
Kuwait's most iconic landmark, three slender towers on the Arabian Gulf waterfront. The main tower has a revolving observation deck and restaurant with panoramic views of Kuwait City and the Gulf.
Practical Information
WiFi & Connectivity
- Free WiFi: Yes (Unlimited)
- Speed Rating: ●●●○○
- Power Outlets: Type G (UK), USB charging stations
- SIM Cards: Available for purchase
Services
- Left Luggage: $3-7/day
- Showers: Free in lounges
- Medical Services: Available
- Prayer Rooms: Available
Family Facilities
- Children's Play Areas
- Nursing Rooms
- Family Restrooms
Money & Currency
- Currency: Kuwaiti Dinar (KWD)
- Exchange: Exchange counters in arrivals halls of both terminals
- Hours: 24/7
The Kuwaiti Dinar is the highest-valued currency in the world. ATMs are available in both terminals.
Smoking Areas
Designated smoking rooms in both terminals
Insider Tips
Terminal 4 is exclusively for Kuwait Airways and is much newer and more comfortable than T1. Check which terminal your airline uses before arriving. Careem ride-hailing is the most reliable transport option. Kuwait is one of the hottest countries — summer temperatures can exceed 50°C.
Facilities & Contact
Airport Facilities
Free Wi-Fi, prayer rooms, duty-free shops, currency exchange, medical center, children play area, smoking rooms, left luggage, SIM card sales, VIP services
Official Website
Phone
+965-2431-9940
Traveler Reviews
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Compare with Nearby Airports
See how KWI compares to other major airports in the region.
Kuwait International Airport
Kuwait City, Kuwait
King Fahd International Airport
Dammam, Saudi Arabia