Shuwaikh Port Bus Station: Complete Transport Guide
Overview
Shuwaikh Port represents Kuwait's most important commercial port, handling the nation's primary cargo, container, and maritime trade operations. Located in the Shuwaikh Industrial Area near Kuwait City, the port functions as a vital hub for importing goods, exporting products, and supporting Kuwait's maritime commerce.
Port Specifications & Capacity
Covering 4.4 million square meters of total area, including 1.2 million square meters of land and supporting water surface, Shuwaikh Port accommodates diverse vessel types and cargo categories. The port contains 21 berths with total length of 4,055 meters, accommodating merchant ships, container vessels, and specialized cargo carriers.
Berth Depths & Draft Requirements
Fourteen berths maintain 10-meter depth accommodating large commercial vessels. Four berths feature 8.5-meter depth supporting medium-sized container ships. Three berths provide 6.7-meter alongside depth for smaller specialized vessels. Navigation channel maintains 8.5-meter minimum depth dredged to approximately eight kilometers length within Kuwait Bay.
Vessel Capacity & Draft Limitations
At minimum tide levels, the port accommodates vessels with 7.5-meter draft. High tide conditions permit vessels with 9.5-meter draft to enter and exit safely. These specifications support major international shipping lines and regional maritime commerce.
Cargo Operations
The port handles merchant ships, container vessels, roll-on/roll-off vehicles, liners, and specialized cargo carriers. Container facilities provide modern storage and handling capabilities. General cargo berths accommodate breakbulk cargo, equipment, and project cargo requiring specialized handling.
Container Traffic & Volume
With approximately 600,000 square meters of container yard space, the port handles significant container traffic. Recent statistics indicate 613,093 TEU (twenty-foot equivalent units) annual throughput. Container handling equipment includes cranes and specialized handling machinery supporting efficient cargo movement.
Vehicle & Ro-Ro Operations
Roll-on/roll-off vessel services facilitate automobile and vehicle imports. High annual vehicle throughput (143,629 vehicles) reflects the region's significant automotive import demand. Specialized vehicle staging areas organize cargo for collection and distribution.
Perishable Cargo Facilities
Reefer container connections support temperature-sensitive cargo including fruits, vegetables, and frozen products. Cold storage facilities maintain optimal conditions for perishable goods. Rapid cargo handling ensures product quality and market availability.
Administrative Management
The Kuwait Ports Authority manages and operates port facilities. Professional port administration ensures efficient operations, safety compliance, and regulatory adherence. Modern information systems track cargo movement and vessel scheduling.
Future Development & Expansion
The port continues infrastructure investment and operational enhancements supporting projected trade growth. Modernization initiatives improve handling efficiency and environmental performance. Strategic positioning supports Kuwait's economic development objectives.
Transportation & Access
Connected to Kuwait International Airport via Ghazali Expressway, the port facilitates integrated cargo operations. Public transportation buses serve port facilities, supporting worker access. Multiple roads ensure vehicle access for cargo collection and logistics operations.
Practical Information
Total Area: 4.4 million m² Land Area: 1.2 million m² Number of Berths: 21 Maximum Depth: 10 meters (14 berths) Container Capacity: 600,000 m² yard space Annual TEU Throughput: 613,093 (recent figures) Vehicle Traffic: 143,629 annually Port Authority Contact: +965-4812622 Mailing Address: P.O Box 3874 Safat 13039 Website: www.kpa.gov.kw