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Islands in Kuwait are a gateway to discovering the country’s lesser-known coastal gems. While Kuwait is often associated with modern cityscapes and rich cultural heritage, its islands offer a serene contrast. From untouched natural havens to historically significant sites, these islands present a fresh perspective on Kuwait’s diverse landscape. Whether you’re seeking peaceful shores or scenic views, Kuwait’s islands offer something special.
Top 10 Islands In Kuwait
Experience a new and tranquil facet to Kuwaitan beauty and culture with the 10 best islands in Kuwait worth stopping by:
1. Failaka Island
Photo: Bo hessin / Wikimedia Commons
Failaka Island is renowned for its rich history, featuring archaeological sites from the Bronze Age and remnants of Greek settlements. The Heritage Village and the ruins, which tell stories of past civilisations, are open to visitors. Ancient Mesopotamian civilisations relied heavily on the island as a trading station because of its advantageous position. Temples, coins, and ceramics discovered during archaeological digs demonstrate a fusion of cultural influences. It is considered one of the best islands in Kuwait for history enthusiasts.
Nearest Airport: Kuwait International Airport (KWI)
Nearest Seaport: Shuwaikh Port
How To Reach: Regular ferry services operate from Ras Al Ardh and Marina Crescent
2. Kubbar Island
Photo: Kubbar / Wikimedia Commons
Kubbar Island is a small, sandy island surrounded by coral reefs. This makes it a popular spot amongst all islands in Kuwait for snorkelling and diving enthusiasts. An ideal location for day outings is provided by the crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life. The island’s coral reefs are home to a variety of marine species, including colourful fish and sea turtles. Divers often encounter dolphins and occasionally spot whales in the surrounding waters. The island’s immaculate beaches are ideal for picnics and sunbathing.
Nearest Airport: Kuwait International Airport (KWI)
Nearest Seaport: Fahaheel Port
How To Reach: Accessible by private boats or organised tours from the mainland
3. Qaruh Island
Photo: Timon Reinhard / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
The smallest of Kuwait’s islands, Qaruh Island, has some of the purest waters. This makes it a great place to dive and snorkel. The island’s name derives from the petroleum sediments found in its surrounding waters. Qaruh’s coral reefs are vibrant and teeming with marine life, including turtles and various fish species. The island’s shallow depths and minimal currents make it suitable for divers of all levels.
Nearest Airport: Kuwait International Airport (KWI)
Nearest Seaport: Ahmadi Port
How To Reach: Accessible via private boats or organised tours
4. Umm Al Maradim Island
Photo: Gotta Be Worth It / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Located near the Saudi border, Umm al Maradim Island is known for its deep surrounding waters. This allows boats to dock directly on its shores. The island is a haven for bird watchers and marine life enthusiasts. It serves as a nesting ground for sea turtles, including the Hawksbill and Green Turtle species. Bird species such as the Bridled and Lesser Crested Tern are known to breed here.
Nearest Airport: Kuwait International Airport (KWI)
Nearest Seaport: Ahmadi Port
How To Reach: Accessible via private boats or organised tours
5. Green Island
Photo: Pixabay / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Green Island is an artificial island and a popular recreational spot connected to the mainland by a causeway. It features landscaped gardens, amphitheatres, and picnic areas, making it ideal for family outings. The island’s lush greenery contrasts with the surrounding desert landscape, offering a refreshing retreat. Visitors can enjoy walking paths, playgrounds, and scenic views of the Gulf. Cultural events and festivals are occasionally hosted in the island’s amphitheatre.
Nearest Airport: Kuwait International Airport (KWI)
Nearest Seaport: Shuwaikh Port
How To Reach: Accessible by car or taxi via the connecting bridge
6. Miskan Island
Photo: Tayssir Kadamany / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Miskan Island is a small, uninhabited island known for its lighthouse and serene environment. For people who want to get away from the bustle of the city, it’s a tranquil haven. Since 1918, the Kuwait Port Authority has been in charge of the island’s lighthouse. Miskan’s geological features are similar to those of Failaka, with medium to coarse sand and coral reefs. Archaeological findings indicate early to late Islamic settlements on the island.
Nearest Airport: Kuwait International Airport (KWI)
Nearest Seaport: Shuwaikh Port
How To Reach: Accessible via private boats; no regular ferry services
7. Auhah Island
Photo: Jennifer Poole / 57 Images / PxHere / Image For Representation Only
Auhah Island is a small, level island close to Kuwait Bay’s entrance. It is mostly visited for its peace and natural beauty. The island is home to a lighthouse and a small heliport, indicating its strategic importance. Marine life around Auhah includes humpback whales, bottlenose dolphins, and various turtle species. The island’s unspoiled environment makes it suitable for nature walks and picnics.
Nearest Airport: Kuwait International Airport (KWI)
Nearest Seaport: Shuwaikh Port
How To Reach: Accessible via private boats; no regular ferry services
8. Umm Al Namil Island
Photo: foc foodoncam / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Known as the “Mother of Ants,” Umm al Namil is a small island in Kuwait Bay that lies about 600 meters from the mainland. The island is renowned for its archaeological significance, with artefacts dating back to the Bronze Age, Dilmun civilisation, Hellenistic period, and Islamic era. Excavations have uncovered pottery, tools, and remnants of ancient settlements, indicating the island’s historical importance. The island’s proximity to the mainland makes it accessible for day trips, attracting history enthusiasts and researchers.
Nearest Airport: Kuwait International Airport (KWI)
Nearest Seaport: Shuwaikh Port
How To Reach: Accessible via private boats; no regular ferry services
9. Warbah Island
Photo: Alen Ištoković / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Warbah Island is located close to the Euphrates River’s mouth in Kuwait’s northernmost region. Spanning approximately 37 square kilometres, the island is characterised by its sandy soil and low clay coasts. It serves as a crucial habitat for various migratory birds, making it a significant site for bird watchers. Marine life around the island includes sightings of humpback whales and bottlenose dolphins. This offers unique opportunities for wildlife observation.
Nearest Airport: Kuwait International Airport (KWI)
Nearest Seaport: Shuwaikh Port
How To Reach: Accessible via private boats; no regular ferry services
10. Bubiyan Island
Photo: Marko Rajevic / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
With an area of around 863 square kilometres, Bubiyan Island is Kuwait’s largest island. Situated in the northwest corner of the Persian Gulf, the Al-Sabiyyah Channel divides it from the mainland. With vast salt marshes and sporadic wadis, the island is primarily flat. As Kuwait’s first Wetland of International Importance under the Ramsar Convention, Bubiyan is a part of the Mubarak Al-Kabeer Marine Reserve.
Nearest Airport: Kuwait International Airport (KWI)
Nearest Seaport: Shuwaikh Port
How To Reach: Access is limited; special permissions are required for visits
From tranquil escapes to historic treasures, islands in Kuwait offer a diverse blend of nature, culture, and discovery. Whether you’re drawn to the ancient ruins of Failaka or the pristine waters of Kubbar, each island promises a unique experience. These coastal gems provide a refreshing contrast to the urban energy of Kuwait City, ideal for day trips or quiet retreats. Plan to unwind, explore, and connect with the serene beauty of these islands with TripXL.
Cover Photo: Diego Delso / Wikimedia Commonsikimedia Commons
