Plan your trip
Getting around
How to get around Kuwait: ride-hailing and taxis, renting a car, buses, ferries to Failaka and typical distances.
Last reviewed: October 2026
Kuwait is compact but built around the car, with a system of ring roads (First to Seventh) and fast radial highways. There is no metro or passenger railway yet, so most visitors combine short walks with taxis or ride-hailing.
Taxis and ride-hailing
- Apps such as Careem and Uber are the easiest option: fixed fares, card payment and no language barrier.
- Licensed taxi companies can be booked by phone or app; on the street, agree the fare before you get in.
- Ride-hailing rules were updated in July 2026; use licensed apps and operators only.
Driving
- Traffic drives on the right. Most rental companies require an International Driving Permit together with your national licence.
- Speed cameras are everywhere and fines are high; using a phone while driving is prohibited and seat belts are compulsory.
- Rush hours are heavy; avoid the ring roads around 7–8 am and 1–3 pm on working days.
- Dust storms can reduce visibility suddenly — slow down and turn on your lights.
Buses and ferries
Public buses are run by the Kuwait Public Transport Company (KPTC) and private operators such as CityBus and KGL. They are cheap but designed for commuters, with limited information in English. Ferries to Failaka Island leave from Ras Al-Ardh in Salmiya.
Typical distances from central Kuwait City
| Destination | Distance | By car |
|---|---|---|
| Kuwait International Airport | ~16 km | 20–30 min |
| Salmiya | ~12 km | 15–25 min |
| The Avenues (Al Rai) | ~12 km | 15–25 min |
| Jahra | ~32 km | 30–40 min |
| Ahmadi / Fahaheel | ~35–40 km | 35–45 min |
| Al Khiran | ~100 km | 1 h – 1 h 15 |
| Subiya (via the causeway) | ~40–50 km | 35–45 min |