Kuwait

Kuwaiti authorities have announced important operational developments concerning Terminal 1 (T1) at Kuwait International Airport, alongside a series of measures designed to facilitate the arrival of visitors and improve passenger movement ahead of the Saudi Super Cup tournament.

The announcement was made by First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Sheikh Fahd Yousef Saud Al-Sabah, whose remarks were reported on October 13, 2026. He indicated that Terminal 1 would resume operations during November, although no specific date was provided for the announced operating arrangements.

The preparations form part of broader government efforts to facilitate travel for Saudi football supporters, participating teams, and official delegations expected to arrive in Kuwait for the tournament. Authorities are coordinating procedures intended to support smoother movement through the country’s entry points.

One of the measures involves increasing passenger processing capacity at the Nuwaiseeb border crossing. A total of 20 counters will be allocated to help manage arriving travelers and improve the efficiency of border procedures during the event.

Additional arrangements will apply to players and officials participating in the Saudi Super Cup. According to the published statements, these individuals will be exempt from biometric fingerprinting procedures at the airport and provided with special identification cards to facilitate their entry into and departure from Kuwait.

It is important to note that Terminal 1 had already begun phased operations in June 2026. Therefore, the latest announcement relates to further operating arrangements scheduled for November and should not be interpreted as the terminal’s first opening or as confirmation that it remained entirely closed before that period.

The published information did not identify which airlines would be covered by the November arrangements or provide a detailed flight schedule. Travelers should therefore continue checking official airport announcements and their airlines’ latest instructions before departure.

The preparations highlight Kuwait’s efforts to strengthen its transport infrastructure and facilitate international visitor movements during major sporting events, while further operational details remain subject to official confirmation.

Source: Kuwait Times