Kuwait International Airport KWI

Kuwait International Airport (KWI) is in Farwaniya Governorate, about 15 km south of Kuwait City centre, and is the country’s main airport. It handled around 15.6 million passengers in 2023, which places it among the busiest airports in the Middle East.

Terminals

It is not a single building: there are several terminals, each serving specific airlines. Terminal 1, designed by architect Kenzo Tange and opened in 1979, handles most international carriers. Terminal 4 is used exclusively by Kuwait Airways, and Terminal 5 is the home of Jazeera Airways. Terminal 2, designed by Foster + Partners, is under construction, and Terminal 3, for general aviation, is closed during the works. Check which terminal your flight leaves from before heading to the airport: switching buildings with luggage takes time.

Airlines and destinations

The two home airlines are Kuwait Airways, the flag carrier, and low-cost Jazeera Airways, with routes across the Middle East, Asia and Europe. Terminal 1 also hosts many foreign airlines, with connections to the main Gulf hubs, Asia and Europe.

Services

Terminal 1 has restaurants, duty-free shops and several lounges. Terminals 4 and 5 are newer and smaller, with more basic facilities, so on long flights it is worth eating something before you arrive.

Tips

Arrive with time to spare, especially on international flights, and always confirm your terminal. In 2026 the airport has had occasional disruption because of the regional situation, so check your flight status with the airline before setting off.