Top 9 Islands In Kuwait - Updated 2024

Isabelle
Contributing Writer
Updated
| 5 min read
islands in kuwait

Kuwait is popular among both expatriates and tourists. It has a rich culture and its theatrical, musical, and artistic scene rank top amongst the Persian Gulf States. Their biodiversity heritage cannot be ignored as hundreds of species of birds are spotted in Kuwait. About two to three million birds swoop in during the migratory period. If this doesn’t entice you, then what you read next might just do the trick. This Middle-Eastern Country is home to breathtaking islands, jaw-dropping views, fun theme parks, and limitless things to do. Fret not, if you are still trying to figure out your to-do’s in this country, narrow your search down to the top islands in Kuwait, mostly barren, but comes with exciting day trips, bird-watching, and scuba-diving activities.

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1. Bubiyan Island


The largest island in Kuwait, Bubiyan Island is situated in the north-western corner of the Persian Gulf. It is uninhabited but that does not mean it is unattractive. The lack of tourism has resulted in Bubiyan Island acting as a stop-over for migratory birds. So, if you are in luck, you may catch some rare species of birds too. Mubarak Al Kabeer Port is being constructed here is ti is more than 50 percent complete. This is perhaps a great destination for camping or organizing a kashta. Drive across Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmad Bridge but drive safe.

Bubiyan Island

Address: North-western corner of Persian Gulf

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2. Warbah Island


Warbah Island is just 1.5 kilometers (0.93 miles) north of Bubiyan Island. It is basically a large mudflat. This doesn’t mean that there is nothing much one can do there. Since Warbah Island is not too far away from Bubiyan Island, this place is also another location where you can catch a sight of the migratory birds. In fact, this place is considered a paradise for birdwatchers and the island can be particularly crowded during the summer. The sea surrounding it also has its own fair share of attractions. Locals and tourists have spotted humpback whales and bottlenose dolphins during their journey to Warbah Island. On the island alone, you will be able to admire both sea animals and rare species of birds. The best part is that you will not need to pay a single cent to visit here. The island also has a coastguard post called M-1.

Warbah Island

Address: Persian Gulf, close to the mouth of the Euphrates River

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3. Miskan Island


As compared to other islands, Miskan Island is much smaller in size as it is only 1.2 kilometers (0.75 miles) long and 800 meters (2,624 feet) wide. No one stays on the island except for a family who manages the lighthouse. This island is an extremely iconic place because of its lighthouse. The best part about the lighthouse is that it is still in operation, guiding ships that are sailing through the Persian Gulf. This lighthouse is a link between the island that offers a defensive front line to the country. This is an amazing fact and tourists can consider dropping by this area for a photoshoot. If you are lucky, you could even catch a glimpse of the humpback and bottlenose dolphins living in the area.

Miskan Island

Address: South of Bubiyan Island

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4. Auhah Island


Located southeast of Failaka Island, Auhah Island or Ouha Island is also home to humpback whales, bottlenose dolphins, and many different species of turtles. Just swing by this island for its picturesque scenery. You may also encounter a number of sea creatures on here. The island is basically barren with only a lighthouse and a heliport.

Auhah Island

Address: Southeast of Failaka Island

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5. Umm Al Namil Island


Umm Al Namil Island is also known as the “Mother of Ants” because of the large number of ants found during its discovery. This island is every historian’s dream as the buildings and architecture are largely untouched and serve as representatives of the Islamic Era and Bronze Age. Because it is not too far away from the mainland, there are many locals who enjoy going to Umm Al Namil Island to do some fishing. If you are enjoy fishing and exploring ancient ruins, then don’t miss this Island.

Umm Al Namil Island

Address: North-west of Shuwaikh Port

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6. Qaruh Island

US Navy 110125-N-6499D-229 Kuwaiti military personnel and dignitaries celebrate the 20th anniversary of the liberation of Qaruh Island, Kuwait
Source: Photo by user U.S. Navy photo b... used under PUBLIC DOMAIN

Qaruh Island is known as a diver’s paradise because of its crystal-clear water and vibrant ecosystem. There are many types of colorful and exotic fishes one can look forward to seeing at Qaruh Island. That is not all. The coral reefs here will make your jaws drop and it will be a sight you will never forget. Locals highly recommend this place and say it is one of the most beautiful places to dive in.

To preserve it and make it available for future generations to come, the Kuwaiti Government puts great effort to protect it. Coast guards are always there to ensure no one flouts the rules. So if you are coming by to do some scuba diving, you can help conserve the environment by not removing anything from the sea.

Qaruh Island

Address: Off the Eastern coast of Kuwait

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7. Umm Al Maradim Island


Umm Al Maradim Island is another place you can look forward to for your scuba diving sessions. It is located at the extreme south of Kuwait’s marine borders and is famous for its pearl oysters that can be found around the sea bed. Though Umm Al Maradim may not be the most accessible island, its clear waters and gorgeous coral reefs will more than make up for it. The island is also surrounded by deep waters and divers will find it convenient because boats can land on shores. This means you can do away with the hassle of finding a space to dock your boat. Isn’t this great? Umm Al Maradim Island is the rainiest place in Kuwait so if you plan on coming, do check on the weather forecast first.

Umm Al Maradim Island

Address: Off the coast of Al Khiran

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8. Kubbar Island

Looking for a serene getaway? Think no more because Kubbar Island is where you should go. Its turquoise-blue waters and remarkably soft sand will keep you on the island. Activities are in abundance at Kubbar Island — ranging from scuba diving to simple activities like swimming and birdwatching. There is something for every age group so everyone in the family will always be entertained. If you enjoy the beach so much and want to spend a long time here, you can stay at the nearby Al-Jahra Copthorne Hotel & Resort. The best times to visit Kubbar Island is during the summer and early autumn months. This will allow you to catch a sight of the best corals.

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9. Failaka Island

A scenic island, Failaka Island is easily accessible. All you need to do is go to Ras Al Ard Sea Club and take a ferry. Once you arrive, an array of activities is immediately made available for you. If you are an adventure-seeker, you can try out activities such as jet-skiing, scuba diving, sailing, fishing, and more. Tired of water sports? Head down to the heritage village and drop by the museum to watch a performance depicting Sheikh Abdullah Al Salim Al Sabah. The performance will show you how he transformed Kuwait and led it to independence. This island will also bring you to a trip down memory lane. During the 1990s, Failaka Island used to be a war-ravaged land. Evidence of the war can still be observed today through the bullet-peppered wall, ancient infrastructure, and battle-worn vehicles. It is a place where you can reflect and truly appreciate the current peace and stability we have.

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Relax and unwind

As you can see from the article, there are many islands in Kuwait. Whatever your interests — be it digging into the ancient ruins or diving into the deep ocean — you will definitely find something that caters to you and the likes of your loved ones. If you love shopping, there are so many places to visit if you don’t know what to buy in Kuwait. So, what are you waiting for? It’s time to book your tickets to Kuwait now and explore its majestic islands.

Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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Isabelle is an educator and a self-professed foodie. When she is not teaching away in school, she is either out looking for interesting foods, at the gym or reading at home.

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1 Comments
Amany .over 3 years ago

To call this article misleading is an understatement!!
It contains nothing but false statements and pictures! The writer clearly does not know ANYTHING about kuwait!! I feel sorry for anyone planing a trip to Kuwait based on the information in this article!

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