As with many of its Gulf peers, Kuwait is undergoing a large-scale drive of infrastructure development as part of a broader mission to diversify its economy and reduce its reliance on hydrocarbons revenue, a goal encapsulated by the ambitious and far-reaching New Kuwait 2035 long-term development plan. With a focus on improving the business operating environment, one key objective of the roadmap is to upgrade the country’s infrastructure. As such, major projects in public transport networks, airport capacity and port facilities are under way, with a view to presenting Kuwait as a leading regional destination for trade and travel.
Structure & Oversight
Several government entities oversee Kuwait’s transport infrastructure. The Ministry of Public Works (MPW) is responsible for the construction and maintenance of public buildings and key infrastructure, including roads, bridges, hospitals and sewage systems. It oversees operations and project management, and provides administrative services for tenders and bidding contracts. In July 2025 the MPW adopted a new organisational structure to improve efficiency as part of the government’s efforts to improve the business operating environment.
The Kuwait Ports Authority (KPA) is responsible for the country’s key commercial ports, namely Shuwaikh, Shuaiba and Doha. The KPA is tasked with ensuring efficient operations and maintaining port infrastructure and services. In January 2025 the KPA announced that it was pursuing a programme of digital transformation and technological upgrades at the ports as part of its efforts to align the facilities with international standards.
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) is responsible for the management and operation of Kuwait International Airport (KIA). It supervises facilities extended to air transport traffic at the airport. In addition, it oversees the construction and maintenance of facilities associated with civil aviation. It provides services for international navigation, such as telecommunications and meteorology, and oversees civil aviation safety matters, including registration, certification, operation and maintenance of civil aircraft. The DGCA organises Kuwait’s air transport segment and supervises government authorities and private entities that operate at KIA.
In July 2025 the government announced that it would take a comprehensive inventory of all in-progress and planned projects across all ministries and public institutions. The initiative is part of broader efforts to improve transparency and oversight, and it aims to enable assessments of implementation mechanisms and monitor the progress of infrastructure projects. The government requested that all ministries and relevant entities provide details of active construction projects and associated contracts, as well as monthly progress reports.
The initiative also ordered the creation of a register of all existing maintenance contracts to provide a centralised database. Documentation must be provided for planned construction projects, including timelines and implementation frameworks. The initiative is being pursued with the objective of increasing government efficiency by improving inter-agency coordination. This, in turn, aims to eliminate duplication, avoid overlapping handling of responsibilities, and ensure the effective planning and allocation of resources.
New Kuwait 2035
Similar to the infrastructure expansion projects of its GCC neighbours, Kuwait is pursuing the largest economic transformation drive in its history. In October 2024 the IMF urged the Kuwaiti government to redouble efforts to attract foreign investment and pursue private-sector-led growth. As a result, the New Kuwait 2035 development roadmap consists of 124 mega-projects worth KD10bn ($32.6bn), aims to create 50,000 jobs, diversify state revenue sources and reduce the country’s reliance on oil. The government aims to expedite the delivery of critical infrastructure projects and attract $32bn in foreign investment over the implementation period.
According to official projections, the mega-projects will provide KD1bn ($3.3bn) in annual income by 2030, and the establishment of public-private partnerships will reduce government spending by as much as 30%. The mega-projects under the roadmap are diverse and far reaching, and count among them ports and transport centres, as the plan includes the provision of new infrastructure to bolster the business environment among its main aspirations and lists infrastructure development as one of the key pillars. The development blueprint intends to create a business-friendly environment while maintaining a focus on national values, social identity and development.
According to data published by research and consultancy firm Blackridge, listed among the top transport projects in Kuwait by project value in 2025 are the KIA expansion, development of the Mubarak Al Kabeer Port and establishment of the Kuwait National Rail Road (KNRR) network. These three projects have a combined estimated cost of $10.6bn.
Rail Networks
The Kuwait National Development Plan (KNDP) originates from the vision of the late Emir, Sheikh Sabah Al Ahmed Al Jaber Al Sabah, for long-term national development. Efforts are actively under way to implement the roadmap’s goals, structured around seven key pillars aimed at transforming Kuwait into a regional financial, commercial and cultural centre by 2035. Under the KNDP, the government is focused on several key projects as part of its drive to provide the advanced infrastructure network necessary to achieve the government’s vision of becoming a regional and global financial and commercial centre.
Included among these is the establishment of the KNRR, which is intended to modernise Kuwait’s railway infrastructure. In April 2025 Kuwait signed an agreement with Turkish consultancy firm Proyapi for the first phase of the project, which aims to construct 575 km of rail networks, intended for both passenger and freight transport. The network will include 111 km that will form the northern portion of the GCC Railway network, spanning from Kuwait to Oman and scheduled for completion by 2030. Kuwait’s portion will start in the central station in Shadadiya – located approximately 25 km southwest of Kuwait City – and extend to Nuwaiseeb on the southern border. The rail system will be constructed along the coastline, providing scenic value for passengers and logistical advantages for freight and travellers. The KNRR will also include a 53-km connection to Iraq; a 154-km connection to Boubyan Port; and eventually, 257 km of track connecting to Shuwaik Port, Shuaiba Port, Abdali and Salmi.
As of November 2025 the project was in its design phase, with the feasibility study of the initiative having been completed in 2011. The network is considered to be an important component in strengthening ties with other GCC countries and will contribute to regional trade. The KNRR will be jointly shared by the public and private sectors, with 44% of shares going to a private consortium, 50% to Kuwaiti nationals and 6% held by the government.
Urban Solutions
Traffic congestion is a persistent concern in Kuwait, with experts asserting the need to provide a comprehensive and reliable public transport system. As such, the Urban Public Transport Planning in Kuwait initiative is a comprehensive plan to upgrade and modernise Kuwait City’s public transport network. The project aims to provide not only a reliable alternative to private cars that reduces traffic congestion but also a network rooted in efficiency and sustainability that reduces carbon emissions and energy consumption and integrates smart mobility solutions.
The project follows a master plan that includes the creation of new routes, improvement of existing infrastructure and the implementation of smart ticketing systems. The initiative is supported by public policy instruments such as government subsidies, regulations that limit private vehicle usage and public awareness campaigns. Included among the project’s components are a bus rapid transit system between new towns and the Kuwait Urban Area, a high-speed metro rail link within the Kuwait City metropolitan area, an express bus service along transport corridors, tram systems for routes within residential areas, a distributor system within Kuwait City, interchange facilities and accessibility measures to provide safe access.
In addition, the urban development project includes the establishment of a new public transport authority and the implementation of an urban transport policy, helping to ensure efficient delivery and technological integration. Headed by the Kuwait Municipality, the MPW, the Ministry of State for Municipal Affairs and the Kuwait Public Transport Company, the project is in its implementation phase and has a completion target of 2030.
The Kuwait Metro project is a large-scale greenfield development for establishing an integrated rapid transit network connecting the centre of Kuwait City with surrounding urban areas. The initiative contributes to the government’s broader aim of modernising Kuwait City and turning the country into a regional commercial and financial destination. The project includes the construction of multiple metro lines, integration with bus and tram networks, and the establishment of park-and-ride facilities.
The metro network will serve major destinations such as Hawalli, Salmiya, Kheitan and Farwaniya, as well as the central business district. Due to be built over five stages, the network will consist of 160 km of track and 68 stations, including stops at key facilities such as universities, shopping malls and sports venues. The project is led by the Ministry of Communications in collaboration with the Kuwait Overland Transport Union.
Line 1 of the metro network, or the Orange Line, will extend 23.7 km over 19 stations from Fahaheel to Jahra. Line 2, or the Blue Line, will extend 21 km across 27 stations between the National Stadium and the Grand Mosque. Line 3, or the Red Line, will consist of 15 stations across 24 km between Jaber Al Mubarak and KIA. Line 4, or the Green line, will extend 22.7 km over 17 stations between Qadisiya Stadium and the Railway Central Station.
Roads
The road repair and maintenance initiative is intended to improve living standards in residential areas, and provide a modern and efficient road network with enhanced safety standards. As of May 2025 there were 18 major projects in progress across Kuwait aimed at achieving a comprehensive maintenance of roads to raise infrastructure quality and safety standards. “The radical and periodic maintenance carried out by the ministry significantly extends the lifespan of road infrastructure and delays the need for total reconstruction, resulting in long-term cost savings for the government,” Noura Al Mashaan, minister of public works, told local media. Al Mashaan added that the maintenance projects supported the national economy by facilitating commercial activity.
Among the road infrastructure initiatives in progress is the Fourth Ring Road project. The Fourth Ring Road is a major motorway spanning 17 km, starting at the intersection of Salem Al Mubarak Street and Al Mughayira Street. Under the project the thoroughfare is undergoing a significant maintenance programme. In addition, the initiative consists of several contracts that cover the motorway’s design and construction, with maintenance work set to be completed by mid-2026. The phase of the project covering further construction of the road, however, is ongoing, with the government confirming in July 2025 that final tendering was under way.
The government aims to contribute to the country’s economic and social development with the maintenance and construction of the motorway. Economically, the project aims to reduce traffic congestion, while improving traffic safety and security, contributing to a more efficient business operating environment. Socially, it aims to improve motorway access and increase connectivity for commuters, reducing time spent in transit.
A key component of the project involves the construction of a major intersection with Route 602. This will include the construction of bridges that connect the Al Rai expressway and the Friday Market with the Shuwaikh Industrial Area. Furthermore, the project will include an upgrade to the existing pedestrian overpass, in addition to the construction of new pedestrian bridges. The project is designed with a view to accommodating future transport demands by tackling traffic bottlenecks and improving the standard of the road network. The project has a completion date of 2027, with 10% implemented as of September 2025.
Road Rules
In an effort to regulate traffic flows and reduce congestion during peak hours, in August 2025 the Ministry of Interior announced via the General Department of Traffic the imposition of a ban on trucks using main thoroughfares, commencing September 1, 2025. The ban is to remain in place until June 2026, and applies to the periods of 6.30am to 9.00am and 12.30pm to 3.30pm.
As part of further regulatory initiatives, in June 2025 Kuwait’s Municipal Council proposed the establishment of a comprehensive and sustainable parking code that aligns with global standards and design. The framework would establish standards for surface, underground and multi-storey parking facilities, and would aim to help curb the environmental impact of spaces in terms of carbon emissions, efficient land use and quality of life via the integration of environmentally friendly infrastructure with smart technologies.
Seven key principles for the development of the code were put forth: urban and engineering design; environmental sustainability; energy and smart technologies; mixed-use and urban connectivity; materials and construction; maintenance and operation; and achieving the UN’s sustainable development goals. In addition, the creation of a unified framework and specifications for parking spaces was proposed, given that the country relies on private vehicles as its primary mode of transport.
Port Enhancement
Development of the Mubarak Al Kabeer Port is one of the country’s largest infrastructure projects and a key pillar of the New Kuwait 2035 development roadmap, as well as China’s Belt and Road Initiative. The project aims to establish Kuwait as an international trade centre and boost trade activity, with a particular focus on connecting Kuwait to trade routes linking Asia with Central Asian trade corridors. The initiative aims to reclaim and rehabilitate Boubyan Island, construct a 24-dock marina and provide capacity for 8.1m containers, thereby boosting regional trade.
Elsewhere, the Shuwaikh Port development project aims to expand capacity and enhance operational efficiency to help meet international standards. Key upgrades include deepening the access waterway to 12 metres to accommodate larger vessels, reconstructing cargo docks, and adding deep-water berths and a semi-automated container terminal on the port’s north-east side. “Kuwait’s ongoing upgrades at Shuwaikh and Shuaiba, along with progress on the northern port projects, are improving the country’s ability to handle larger vessels and more diversified cargo”, Ravi Varrier, CEO of Al Rashed International Shipping, told OBG. He further added, “translating this new capacity into real efficiency gains though, will depend on how quickly customs, digital systems and hinterland connections are modernised.”
In an effort to streamline and accelerate port operations, Kuwait is advancing plans to integrate its ports through a unified digital system. The platform will connect ship and cargo movements with documentation, enhancing the efficiency and performance of port-related logistics services. This will enable precise tracking of goods for importers and exporters, while strengthening security through real-time monitoring of vessel movements, cargo handling and gate access across all KPA facilities.
Marina Upgrade
Kuwait is modernising the Al Fintas marina through the Fintas Marina Project, which will deliver advanced facilities for luxury boats; private fishing vessels; ferries; and government-owned craft used by municipal, health, firefighting, navy and coast guard services. Supporting infrastructure will include restaurants, cafes, tourism amenities, a rescue centre, repair services, and fuel and water stations. The project aims to boost revenue and is scheduled for completion in 2027.
To ease pressure on Shuwaikh Port, which faces capacity constraints and limited storage, a dedicated Customs area is being developed at Shuaiba Port. Required upgrades include expanded container storage, handling facilities, and a new Customs inspection zone outside the port. This is expected to reduce truck congestion, accelerate cargo clearance and cut demurrage charges, while strengthening Kuwait’s reputation as a regional shipping centre. The Shuaiba Port development project will add new docks to accommodate rising volumes of building materials, easing pressure on operations.
The KPA is also focusing on establishing four fully integrated logistics cities in Shuwaikh, Doha, and Mina Abdullah. These cities will include multi-purpose warehouses for storage and exhibitions, office space, commercial complexes and various support services. The plan is designed to improve logistics services, assist small and medium-sized enterprises, enhance efficiency and generate higher revenue.
The Al Abdali Economic Zone project will establish a free trade zone and joint stock company to provide Customs warehousing, set local storage regulations and foster competitive market conditions. The goal is to stimulate private sector growth and reinforce Kuwait’s standing as a regional trade centre. The project is slated for completion in 2027.
Air
Development of an upgraded Terminal 2 is under way at KIA. Overseen by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation, this enhancement stands as one of Kuwait’s largest construction projects and is part of a wider initiative to establish KIA as a major regional air transport centre. The expansion aims to increase capacity to accommodate 25m visitors per year and provide modern facilities. The terminal features 28 gates, parking for 4500 cars and a transit hotel, as well as a metro line connecting KIA to the centre of Kuwait City. The government-funded project, with an estimated cost of $4.3bn, is expected to be completed by the end of 2026.
KIA is undergoing significant upgrades, including the extension of the eastern runway, installation of advanced air navigation systems, and construction of a new control tower. These improvements are set to expand capacity for next-generation aircraft, increase flight volumes and boost passenger traffic.
As part of the broader KIA expansion, Kuwait Air Cargo City was completed in March 2025 and can accommodate more than 77 cargo carriers. Designed to substantially increase the aviation segment’s contribution – targeted at 25% of national income within 10 years – the development expands Kuwait’s import and export capacity while offering enhanced services for freight operators. Facilities include a customer service centre, parking for 2000 vehicles, a government inspectors’ building, a medical quarantine unit, security services, administrative offices and an animal shelter. Inauguration of the updated facility is expected by the end of 2026.
Strategic Partnerships
Kuwait is deepening international collaborations to advance New Kuwait 2035, aimed at transforming the country into a global and regional investment and business centre. Alongside domestic reforms to help enhance efficiency and transparency, the government is pursuing targeted partnerships. One such partnership is with Egypt, with July 2025 seeing Kuwait’s Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Khaled Al Hamad Al Sabah meet with Kamel El Wazir, Egypt’s deputy prime minister, minister of transport and then-minister of industry and trade, to explore joint ventures. Accordingly, 17 Egyptian organisations have expressed interest in infrastructure developments.
Kuwait’s committee for agreements with China has identified four priorities: expanding economic cooperation, accelerating coordination, increasing technical exchanges and resolving project challenges. In addition to the landmark Mubarak Al Kabeer Port project, both sides collaborate on environmental initiatives such as land reclamation, ecosystem rehabilitation, afforestation and sand encroachment control. In parallel, Kuwait is strengthening ties with Japan, focusing on energy, petrochemicals, trade and renewable energy to reinforce economic stability and energy security.
Outlook
Kuwait’s portfolio of transport projects underscores its aim to become a logistics centre. Efforts to reduce road congestion through investment in public transport reflect a dual goal: improving quality of life and creating a more efficient business environment. Coupled with regulation, transparency and global partnerships, these measures bring Kuwait closer to its vision of becoming a destination for global enterprise. As Kuwait advances infrastructure and logistics projects under New Kuwait 2035, it is unclear at the time of publication what the impact of regional geopolitical tensions will be on trade routes and transport activity.
