Driving from Bahrain to Kuwait is an (cough, cough) exciting journey that covers approximately 550 kilometers and takes around 4.5 to 5.5 hours, depending on traffic and border crossing times. I had a meeting and some work and that's the only reason for this trip. I have been to Kuwait a few times in the past and i was not in a hurry to go back. That being said, seems like Kuwait is taking positive steps to improve its outlook. Better late than never i suppose. If and when the unified GCC visa comes along they need to capitalise on the potential tourism revenue. It's a long way away for Kuwait but with huge potential.
Here's a detailed guide to help you navigate this route efficiently and enjoyably.
Preparation and Essentials
Before you set off, do the essential. Ensure your vehicle is well-maintained. Check your tires, oil, coolant, and fuel levels - IT'S HOT OUT THERE, HERE and Everywhere this time of the year so check all fluids - your and the cars. Make sure you have your passport validity more than 6months, visa, vehicle registration, and insurance documents. Google map will be invaluable however its pretty much one straight road almost all the way.
Visa To Kuwait
At the time of write this and to my surprise, Kuwait visa, for GCC residents, is one of the easiest to get. The online portal is simple, upload all the usual documents they ask for, submit and in a few hours you will be emailed with an approval or rejection. And i have to say, unlike UAE they do not ask for money upfront, atleast not yet. Once and if approved, you pay 3KWD approx 3.5/3.6 BHD. None of the hassle of chasing for a refund in case of rejection - UAE please note you still owe me a refund from many moons ago.
Starting Point: Bahrain
All road to the other GCC countries from Bahrain goes through (drumroll)....... yup, the King Fahd Causeway, which connects Bahrain to Saudi Arabia (for now, we are eagerly waiting for the Bahrain-Qatar bridge). The causeway is a 25-kilometer-long series of bridges and causeways over the Arabian Gulf.
Crossing the King Fahd Causeway
The King Fahd Causeway has several checkpoints, including passport control and customs. Traffic can be heavy, especially during weekends and holidays, so plan for potential delays. I had a smooth drive as always. The causeway offers scenic views of the Khobar sea side and is a marvel of modern engineering.
Driving Through Saudi Arabia
Once you've crossed into Saudi Arabia, you'll drive through the Eastern Province. The main route is via the Dhahran-Jubail Highway, also known as Highway 80. This highway is well-maintained and has plenty of rest stops with fuel stations, restrooms(stay away unless dire emergency), and eateries.
Dammam and Al Khobar: Shortly after crossing the causeway, you will see the cities of Al Khobar and Dammam, major urban centers in the Eastern Province. These cities have numerous amenities if you need to make a stop.
Jubail: Continuing north, you will reach Jubail, an industrial city with facilities where you can take a break.
After Jubail its all industrial town like Ras Al Khai, Tanajib etc all the way to Khafji
Approaching the Kuwait Border
As you near the Kuwait border, follow the signs for the Nuwaiseeb border crossing. This is the primary entry point into Kuwait from Saudi Arabia. Ensure all your documents are ready for inspection. The border crossing process includes customs and immigration checks and biometrics can take some time.
Kuwait
After clearing the border, you will enter Kuwait on Highway 40, which leads directly to Kuwait City. The road conditions in Kuwait are generally good, and you will find clear signage guiding you to your destination.
Key Points to Remember
Distance and Duration: The total driving distance is approximately 500 kilometers, and the journey can take 4.5-5 hours, depending on traffic and border crossing times.
Fuel: Fuel is readily available at several stations along the route in both Saudi Arabia and Kuwait. Fuel in Kuwait is half the price of Bahrain just FYI. Sadly i didnt have jerry cans lol
Rest Stops: Utilize the rest stops along the Dhahran-Jubail Highway for breaks, meals, and refueling.
Destination: Kuwait City
Kuwait City with plenty to explore such as the Kuwait Towers, the Grand Mosque, and the Souq Al-Mubarakiya. That being said i went straight to THE Place where kuwait embraks upon - The Avenues Mall to enjoy the rich culture (pun intended) and food of Kuwait & work of course.
The food is crazy good. Below Lunch, Mutton Majboos, one portion good enough for 2 . I am generally not a mutton fan but this was sooooooooo goooooooooooooooood. The food coma obviously followed. We also had a traditional breakfast from the Avenues Souq but that was meeeh, i have had better.
Conclusion
Driving from Bahrain to Kuwait is a straightforward and interesting road trip. Kuwait has alot to catch up to however i see a positive shift happening. We dealt with locals who were friendly despite the language barrier and willingness to help (of course Avenues mall is a different Kuwait all together but still). The border crossing was smooth and the officals were accomodating. The system and the process obviously needs major update but that will come in due course of time and hopefully soon. I would prefer driving to kuwait over a flight. By the time one waits in the airport for the gates to open you can reach more than half way to Kuwait by road - ok ok i am exaggerating here or am i?
Souq inside Avenues Mall is better than considering the heat this time of the year.
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