Kuwait is getting ready to welcome football fans from across the Gulf, and the airport is part of the plan. Kuwait International Airport’s Terminal 1 (T1) will reopen operations in November, ahead of the Saudi Super Cup, First Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousef Al-Sabah announced on Monday.
What Kuwait Is Hosting?
The 13th edition of the tournament, part of the 2026-27 Saudi football season, will be played from 19 to 23 December at Jaber Al-Ahmad International Stadium. It is the first time the competition is being hosted in Kuwait, making the country the eighth host destination after Makkah, Riyadh, Jeddah, Abha, London, Abu Dhabi and Hong Kong.
The Four Clubs And The Draw
Four clubs will take part: Al-Nassr, Al-Ahli, Al-Qadsiah and Al-Khulood. Al-Nassr, the club Cristiano Ronaldo plays for, lost to Al-Ahli on penalties in last year’s final in Hong Kong, so there is plenty to look forward to. The semi-final draw will start on 14 October, with tickets expected to go on sale afterwards.
Easier Arrivals For Fans And Players
The minister said the Ministry of Interior has put several measures in place to make arrivals smoother for Saudi supporters. These include expanded capacity at the Nuwaiseeb border crossing, where 20 dedicated counters will receive travellers.
Players and administrative staff taking part in the matches will also be exempt from biometric fingerprinting at the airport. They will be issued special identification cards to use when entering and leaving the country.
Who Is Backing The Tournament
The Public Authority for Sports (PAS), a government partner for the tournament, said its role reflects a commitment to supporting major sporting events and strengthening Kuwait’s standing on the regional and international sports scene. It added that it will continue backing events that help develop the sector and build Gulf partnerships.
The announcement comes as the Saudi Super Cup continues to travel beyond the Kingdom, and Kuwait’s turn gives local fans a rare chance to watch some of Saudi football’s biggest names up close. With four clubs, a handful of matches and five days of football, December is shaping up to be a busy month at Jaber Al-Ahmad.
Also Read: Kuwait: Passport Fee Increased To KWD100 Under New Ministerial Decision; Details Inside
Before You Travel
If you are planning to fly in for the matches, keep an eye on your airline’s updates. Also, confirm which terminal you will be using before you head to the airport. Those travelling by road from Saudi Arabia can look forward to the extra counters at Nuwaiseeb.
Cover Image Courtesy: Kuwait International Airport/Website
FAQs
How will Saudi fans reach Kuwait more easily?
The Nuwaiseeb border crossing will have 20 dedicated counters for travellers. Players and administrative staff are exempt from biometric fingerprinting at the airport and will get special ID cards.
When and where is the Saudi Super Cup in Kuwait?
It runs from 19 to 23 December 2026 at Jaber Al-Ahmad International Stadium. It is the first time the tournament has been held in Kuwait.
When will Kuwait International Airport’s Terminal 1 resume operations?
Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousef Al-Sabah said it will resume in November, ahead of the Saudi Super Cup. No exact date was given, so confirm your terminal with your airline before travelling.
