Kuwait has launched an ambitious $4.3 billion airport terminal project aimed at positioning the country as a leading aviation hub in the Gulf. The new Terminal 2 at Kuwait International Airport is designed to support the growing volume of international travel and to serve as a major gateway for global connectivity.
Spanning 0.75 square kilometres, the terminal will feature three expansive, symmetrical wings, each extending 1.2 kilometres. With a capacity to handle up to 25 million passengers annually, it is expected to significantly boost passenger flow and convenience. An advanced baggage system will process up to 2,930 bags per hour, supported by 120 check-in counters to reduce waiting times and streamline the traveller experience.
Climate-Responsive Design with Sustainable Innovation
Terminal 2 is being designed with Kuwait’s challenging climate in mind, integrating features that cater to both sweltering summer heat and rare but heavy seasonal rains. The terminal will include a sophisticated air conditioning network and insulation systems tailored to temperature extremes ranging from 6°C in winter to over 45°C in summer.
Energy efficiency and sustainability are central to the terminal’s architecture. More than 8,000 skylights will allow natural daylight to illuminate the building, while the rooftop will house over 81,000 solar panels to generate clean power. This combination of passive lighting and solar energy reinforces Kuwait’s push toward greener infrastructure.
Architecturally, the terminal will reflect Kuwaiti heritage while offering travellers modern comforts, including a vast 25-metre-high central hall filled with amenities. A fixed bridge network will provide easy boarding access, and plans for a connected metro line aim to enhance transportation links between the airport and city.
Kuwait’s new terminal is set to become a landmark in regional aviation, blending innovative technology, passenger-centric design, and environmental responsibility. Once completed, Terminal 2 will not only handle increased traffic but also redefine the travel experience across the Gulf region.