Aviation Infrastructure · Civil works nearing completion — passenger service targeted for Q4 2026
Kuwait International Airport Terminal 2
مبنى الركاب الجديد T2
A new national gateway designed to substantially expand Kuwait International Airport and modernize the passenger journey.
Overview
Infrastructure is a decision about the future.
Purpose
T2 is planned to increase annual passenger capacity, integrate smart airport systems and support Kuwait’s position as a regional transport and commercial hub.
History
Designed by Foster + Partners and built by Turkey's Limak İnşaat at a reported cost of $5.8 billion, construction began in May 2017 against an original 2022 completion target; COVID-19 and supply-chain disruption pushed the timeline back. The terminal was approximately 81% complete as of late 2025, with structural work largely finished and current work focused on interior fit-outs, baggage systems, security infrastructure, and LEED Gold sustainability targets. The official deadline for civil works completion is 30 November 2026, followed by systems testing and trial operations ahead of passenger service in the final quarter of 2026.
Why it matters
Air connectivity affects tourism, trade, education and family links. The new terminal is both a transport system and the first architectural encounter many visitors will have with Kuwait.
Planned capacity
25m passengers (expandable to 50m)
Boarding gates
36
Reported cost
$5.8 billion
Civil works deadline
30 Nov 2026
Timeline
From proposal to public life
Capacity vision
Planning establishes a new terminal sized for major passenger growth.
Construction begins
Main construction starts under architects Foster + Partners and contractor Limak İnşaat, targeting a 2022 completion.
Pandemic delays
COVID-19 and global supply-chain disruption push the completion timeline back.
81% complete
Structural work is largely finished; focus shifts to interior fit-out, baggage systems, and security infrastructure.
Toward opening
Civil works are due to complete by 30 November, with passenger service targeted for the final quarter of the year.
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