AGP Executive Report

Airport Update: Kuwait International Airport’s Terminal 1 has resumed operations, with Arab and international airlines restarting flights under a phased reopening plan after repair, upgrades, and technical system work—officials say procedures are running smoothly and more airlines are expected in the coming weeks. Route News: Jazeera Airways is bringing back direct Kuwait–Budapest flights for the summer season, launching July 16 with three weekly services. Regional Travel Demand: Kuwaiti visitor arrivals to Oman jumped 17.2% (2024–2025), making Kuwait Oman’s third-largest source market, with Dhofar’s khareef season driving growth. Travel Disruption Watch: Some flights to and from Beirut were cancelled after Israel signaled it may resume strikes on the Lebanese capital, raising fresh travel-security concerns. Loyalty & Travel Spending: Aura, Alshaya Group’s loyalty program, won Best Strategic Partnership in Global Loyalty at the 2026 International Loyalty Awards for its partnership with NBK and The Avenues—good news for shoppers planning trips and redemptions. Security Context: Kuwait reported intercepting hostile missile and drone attacks amid the wider Iran-US tensions, a reminder to travelers to stay alert for possible flight changes.

Airport Update: Kuwait International Airport’s Terminal 1 has resumed operations for Arab and international airlines under a phased reopening plan, with about 18 flights scheduled and procedures in place to keep travel smooth. Air Safety Alert: Kuwait’s army says air defences are intercepting hostile missile and drone attacks, advising the public to follow official safety instructions as sirens sound during interceptions. Regional Travel Watch: Iran-US tensions are again flaring over the Strait of Hormuz, with Iran threatening to suspend talks and push for blocking the strait—an issue that can quickly affect regional travel and shipping. Oman Tourism Boost: Kuwait visitor arrivals to Oman rose 17.2% from 2024 to 2025, with Dhofar’s khareef season (June 21–Sept end) driving demand as hotel and road capacity expands. New Route for Kuwait Flyers: Jazeera Airways is relaunching direct flights from Kuwait to Budapest from July 16, 2026 (3x weekly), adding another Europe option for summer holidays. Visa News (Sri Lanka): Sri Lanka introduced free 30-day tourist visas/ETA fee waivers for citizens of 40 countries, including Kuwait eligible travellers, to support tourism.

Aviation & Travel Updates: Kuwait International Airport has revised check-in counter closing times effective June 1 (GCC/Arab flights close 1 hour before departure; other international flights close 1.5 hours before), urging passengers to arrive early. Airline Routes: Jazeera Airways is relaunching its direct Kuwait–Budapest route for the summer season (from July 16, 3x weekly), adding another European option for holidaymakers. Hajj Homecoming: First groups of Kuwaiti pilgrims returned via Terminal 4 with joyful reunions, while the Ministry of Health urged travelers to follow post-hajj preventive guidelines for up to 21 days and seek care if symptoms appear. Security & Safety: Kuwait’s Army said air defences were confronting hostile missile and drone attacks, advising the public to follow official safety instructions; separate reports also cite missile/drone incidents involving US forces in Kuwait. Local Enforcement: Kuwait arrested 20 Asian expatriates in a gambling crackdown during Eid Al-Adha, with deportation steps underway. Power & Water: The electricity minister visited Az-Zour South plant, praising staff readiness to keep services running through the holiday. Culture & Tourism: Museums are being highlighted as bridges between civilizations, with exhibitions drawing visitors eager for global cultural experiences.

Airport Update: Kuwait’s DGCA has set new check-in closing times from June 1—GCC and other Arab flights close 1 hour before departure, while other international routes close 1.5 hours prior. Hajj Returns: Kuwait’s first hajj return flights are landing via Terminal 4, with Kuwait Airways receiving the initial incoming group from Jeddah, Taif and Madinah, as families welcome pilgrims home. Health Advisory: The Ministry of Health urges returning pilgrims to follow preventive guidance, including meningitis preventive medication in the final two days before departure and monitoring health for up to 21 days after arrival. Eid Service Readiness: The Electricity, Water and Renewable Energy minister visited Az-Zour South to review operational readiness and ensure uninterrupted power and water during Eid Al-Adha. Travel Connectivity: Jazeera Airways will restart a seasonal Budapest–Kuwait direct flight from July 16 to Sept 15, running three times weekly. Regional Travel Facilitation: The Unified GCC Visa is set to let eligible residents apply once to visit multiple Gulf countries, including Kuwait, using a single application.

Hajj Return Logistics: Kuwait’s Public Authority for Civil Aviation says Kuwaiti Hajj pilgrims will start arriving via Terminal 4 (T4) at Kuwait International Airport from Saturday (May 30), with flights by Kuwait Airways, Saudia and Flynas over two days (first at 2:15pm, last at 9:00pm Sunday). Health Advisory: The Ministry of Health urges pilgrims to follow preventive guidelines after Hajj, including meningitis medication in the final two days before departure and monitoring for 21 days on return, with urgent care if symptoms appear. Kuwait Security Update: Kuwait intercepted hostile missile/drone threats aimed at its airspace, with officials reporting no casualties and warning residents against unverified claims during interception activity. Iran–US Tensions, Hormuz Focus: Reports say the US and Iran are close to a 60-day ceasefire extension that would reopen Strait of Hormuz for unrestricted shipping, but Trump’s “final determination” is still pending and Iran disputes finalization. Air Base Incident: An Iranian missile attack on Ali Al Salem Air Base injured five Americans after debris impact, while talks still hinge on key MOU issues like asset unfreezing and the nuclear file. Consular Housing: Sonakshi Sinha reportedly rented her Bandra apartment to the Kuwait Consulate General for a year (₹16 lakh/month; lease June 7–June 6). Travel Context: Sri Lanka waived visa fees for visitors from 40 countries, including Kuwait, via a free ETA for 30 days.

Gulf Security: Kuwait reported intercepting hostile missile and drone threats aimed at its airspace, with officials saying residents heard explosions linked to interception activity and urging people to rely on official updates. Ceasefire Watch: US and Iran reportedly edged toward a 60-day ceasefire extension and reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, but the plan still hinges on President Trump’s approval while Iran says details aren’t finalized. Shipping & Tourism Impact: Analysts warn that conflict risk is pushing more “dark” transits through Hormuz, making cargo flows harder to track in real time—an issue that can ripple into travel and regional access. Hajj Health: Kuwait’s Health Ministry urged pilgrims returning from Hajj to follow preventive guidelines, monitor health for 21 days, and seek care quickly if symptoms appear. Consular Housing: Sonakshi Sinha reportedly rented her Bandra apartment to the Kuwait Consulate General for a year, starting June 7. Travel Deals: Sri Lanka waived visa fees for visitors from 40 countries (including Kuwait) via a free ETA for 30 days. Market Mood: Asian markets largely rose as hopes of a US-Iran truce supported risk sentiment, while oil prices dipped on deal optimism.

Hajj Health Watch: Kuwait’s Ministry of Health urged pilgrims returning from Hajj to follow preventive guidance, complete meningitis protection in the final two days before leaving, and monitor symptoms for 21 days—seeking care fast if fever, rash, breathing issues, or stomach symptoms appear. Gulf Air Safety & Travel Disruption: With US-Iran tensions still flaring, reports say Kuwait intercepted aerial threats near the border and Kuwaiti forces responded to missile/drone activity tied to the Strait of Hormuz standoff—reminding travellers to expect shifting flight conditions. Ceasefire Update for Hormuz: The US and Iran reportedly agreed to extend their ceasefire for 60 days and ease Strait of Hormuz shipping restrictions, but Trump approval is still pending and Iran says terms aren’t final—keeping regional uncertainty high for logistics and travel planning. Sri Lanka Visa Deal: Sri Lanka waived visa fees for visitors from 40 countries via a free ETA (30 days), including Kuwait—good news for Kuwait-based travellers looking for easier short breaks. Kuwait Consulate Housing: Bollywood actor Sonakshi Sinha reportedly rented her Bandra apartment to the Consulate General of Kuwait in Mumbai for a year, supporting staff accommodation needs.

Gulf Security & Travel Risk: The US and Iran are reportedly close to a 60-day ceasefire extension, with shipping through the Strait of Hormuz to be unrestricted, but the deal still hinges on US President Donald Trump’s approval—while fresh strikes and accusations keep the situation volatile. Kuwait in the Spotlight: Iran targeted a US air base in Kuwait after US strikes near Bandar Abbas, and Kuwait said it intercepted incoming threats, underscoring how quickly regional tensions can spill into local airspace and travel planning. Diplomatic Back-and-Forth: Iran’s foreign ministry condemned US threats against Oman as unlawful “blackmail,” adding more uncertainty around Gulf coordination. Travel-Linked Ripple Effects: Market swings on truce hopes and renewed attacks are already feeding into broader travel and logistics anxiety across the region, especially for routes tied to Hormuz.

US-Iran Ceasefire Update (Kuwait in the spotlight): The US and Iran have reached an outline deal to extend their ceasefire for 60 days, but it still needs President Donald Trump’s final approval, after Iran targeted a US air base in Kuwait following US strikes near the Strait of Hormuz. Regional Travel Risk: The latest drone and missile exchanges have again raised concerns for air and sea travel in the Gulf, with Kuwait reporting interceptions of hostile missile/drone threats. Oil & Flight Mood: Markets swung on the ceasefire-extension reports, with oil prices reversing course as traders weighed hopes of reopening Hormuz against the fragility of talks. Kuwait Travel Connectivity: Jazeera Airways is set to launch a direct Kuwait–London Luton route starting July 8, with multiple weekly flights in July before moving to daily service from August 1. Eid Travel Context: The flare-up coincided with Eid al-Adha, adding to holiday travel uncertainty across the region.

Airport Update: Kuwait International Airport is open today, with commercial flights running through Terminals 4 and 5 as the phased recovery continues; Kuwait Airways and Jazeera are the main operators there, while Terminal 1 is set to gradually welcome more Arab and international carriers from June 1. Hajj Readiness: Customs officials inspected Passenger Terminal T4 to keep pilgrim processing smooth during the Hajj season, stressing faster procedures with security maintained. Travel Safety Warning: Kuwait’s National Cybersecurity Center warned travellers about fake travel websites and “too-good-to-be-true” holiday deals that can lead to online fraud. Eid Al-Adha Atmosphere: Kuwaitis began Eid animal sacrifice (Tashreeq days) with organized slaughterhouse services and public health controls, alongside broader Eid messages of unity and charity across the region. Regional Disruption Risk: With US-Iran tensions escalating, Kuwait reported air defenses responding to missile and drone attacks and urged residents to follow official safety instructions—an important heads-up for anyone planning flights or road travel. Eid Fares: Jazeera launched a limited Eid and summer sale with one-way tickets from KD15 (about $48.75) for travel through late September, booking open until May 31.

Eid Al-Adha Travel & Safety: Kuwait’s National Cybersecurity Center warned travellers about fake travel websites and scam “deals,” urging bookings only via official platforms. Airport Update: Kuwait International Airport stayed open during the holiday period, with operations focused on Terminals 4 and 5; Terminal 1 is set for a gradual return for Arab and international carriers starting June 1. Holiday Weather: Kuwait’s Meteorology Department forecasts extreme heat and dust-raising winds during Eid, with temperatures rising up to 47–49°C late in the holiday. Connectivity for Kuwaitis: Jazeera Airways launched a Special Eid sale with one-way fares from $48.75 and continues expanding routes, including Kuwait–Luton (from July 8) and Kuwait–Milan Bergamo. Regional Travel Disruption: Airlines suspended parts of Middle East routes amid rising US-Iran conflict risk, with carriers rerouting away from traditional hubs. Hajj Support: Ooredoo Kuwait rolled out a Hajj connectivity and pilgrim “farewell” package at the airport. Tourism Offers Abroad: Sri Lanka introduced free fee-free tourist ETAs for arrivals from 40 countries, including Kuwait, valid for 30 days.

Eid travel push: Jazeera Airways has launched a limited-time Eid and summer sale from Kuwait, with one-way fares starting at $48.75 (KD 15) and bookings open until May 31 for travel through Sept 30. Airport update: Kuwait International Airport is still in phased recovery, with Terminal 4 and Terminal 5 handling most flights while Terminal 1 remains under repair—so travellers are urged to confirm airline details before heading in. Safety warning: Kuwait’s National Cybersecurity Center warns of fake travel websites and “too-good-to-be-true” booking offers targeting holidaymakers. Holiday logistics: Kuwait released all police officers held in disciplinary detention ahead of Eid al-Adha. Weather: Meteorology forecasts extreme heat and dust-raising winds during Eid, with temperatures climbing from 42–44°C to 47–49°C by late week. Regional travel buzz: Sri Lanka now offers fee-free tourist ETAs for arrivals from 40 countries, including Kuwait. Regional context: Iran–US tensions continue to ripple across the Gulf, with fresh strikes reported.

Eid security update: Kuwait’s Ministry of Interior says all police officers held in disciplinary detention have been released ahead of Eid al-Adha, after a decision that their time served was enough. Eid dates: Eid ul Adha 2026 is expected to fall on May 27 in many countries, with some observing it on May 28. Airport status: Kuwait International Airport remains open with a phased recovery—commercial flights are running mainly through Terminals 4 and 5, while Terminal 1 is still under repair, so travellers should confirm terminal and schedules with their airlines. Travel safety warning: Kuwait’s National Cybersecurity Center cautioned holidaymakers about fake travel websites and “too-good” flight offers that can lead to online fraud. Connectivity: Jazeera Airways has launched Kuwait–Milan Bergamo flights, and it also plans a new Kuwait–London Luton direct route starting July 8. Weather: Kuwait is bracing for extreme heat and dust-raising winds during the Eid period, with temperatures climbing into the high 40s Celsius. Regional backdrop: U.S.-Iran tensions continue with renewed strikes and claims of drone incidents, keeping travel uncertainty in the wider region.

Memorial Day in the spotlight: Kuwait-linked grief is hitting hard in the US as communities honor fallen service members tied to the Iran conflict, including Master Sgt. Nicole Amor and others remembered in ceremonies this week. Eid travel reality check: Kuwait’s Meteorology Department warns of extreme heat and dust-raising winds during Eid Al-Adha, with temperatures climbing from the low-40s to near 49°C by late week. Airline expansion: Kuwait Airways is ramping up summer flying, launching 12 new destinations (including Alexandria, Sarajevo, Malaga and Zurich) and planning about 728 weekly flights in June, while also working through past refund delays after regional disruptions. More regional connectivity: Air Arabia Egypt adds Alexandria–Amman non-stop flights from June 15. Visa perk for holiday planners: Sri Lanka rolls out a free tourist ETA for nationals of 40 countries (including Kuwait) for up to 30 days, starting May 25. Kuwait–Azerbaijan ties: Azerbaijan’s embassy highlights growing tourism and cooperation, citing 32,000 Kuwaiti visitors in 2025.

Kuwait Airways Summer Push: Kuwait Airways says it will launch 12 new summer destinations from June—Sarajevo, Malaga, Alexandria, Sharm El Sheikh, Salalah, Nice, Vienna, Antalya, Bodrum, Trabzon, Mykonos and Zurich—taking its network to 54, with more routes planned after approvals. Eid Weather Alert: Kuwait’s Met office warns of extremely hot conditions and dust-raising northwesterly winds during Eid Al-Adha, with temperatures climbing from 42–44°C to 47–49°C by Thursday–Friday. Regional Travel Links: Air Arabia Egypt will start non-stop Alexandria–Amman flights on June 15 (four weekly). More Flights, More Demand: Kuwait Airways also plans about 728 weekly flights in June as refunds continue after the Feb 28 disruptions. Bangladesh–Kuwait Solidarity: Bangladesh handed over a goodwill food consignment to Kuwait as ties expand across manpower, aviation and tourism. Visa Ease for Sri Lanka: Sri Lanka now offers a free 30-day ETA to citizens of 40 countries including Kuwait, starting May 25.

Kuwait Airways Expansion: Kuwait Airways says it will fly about 728 weekly flights in June to 58 destinations, up from roughly 420 flights to 45, after approvals—while refund processing is still catching up after ~500,000 ticket cancellations since Feb 28. Eid Travel Demand: Hotels across the region are reporting a strong Eid Al Adha booking push, with families driving demand and more staycation-style packages. New Routes from Kuwait: Jazeera Airways is rolling out more Europe links—London Luton direct from July 8 (4 weekly, then daily from Aug 1) and earlier Kuwait–Milan Bergamo service. Local Culture & Leisure: Kuwait revived the Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmad Cultural Centre fountain with daily music-and-laser shows, and the JACC is back on schedule. Digital Eidiya: Weyay Bank launched digital Eidiya via Wamd and “Eidiya Link” during Eid. Bangladesh–Kuwait Solidarity: Bangladesh handed Kuwait a 240-ton goodwill food consignment amid regional supply strain. Visa Ease for Sri Lanka: Sri Lanka offers free 30-day ETA tourist visas for eligible travelers from Kuwait and other selected countries—ETA is still required before arrival.