Kuwait Bus Timings During Ramadan: Complete Guide
Kuwait's public buses operate with special Ramadan schedules, starting as early as 4:00 AM and running until midnight or later. Get all the timing details, Iftar adjustments, and travel tips.
By Rifat Hossain
🌙 What Changes During Ramadan?
During the holy month of Ramadan, Kuwait's public bus services adjust their schedules to accommodate the unique rhythm of the blessed month. Whether you're heading to Suhoor, commuting to work with fasting hours, or traveling after Iftar, understanding the modified timings will help you plan your journeys better.
Good news: Buses continue operating throughout Ramadan with extended hours and adjusted frequencies to serve passengers during this special time.
🕌 Ramadan Bus Operating Hours
⏰ Standard Ramadan Schedule
| Time Period | Operating Hours |
|---|---|
| First Bus (Suhoor Time) | 4:00 AM – 5:00 AM |
| Regular Day Service | Continuous operation |
| Last Bus (Night Service) | Midnight – 2:00 AM (route-dependent) |
💡 Pro Tip: Buses start much earlier during Ramadan than regular months to accommodate Suhoor travelers. If you need to reach somewhere before Fajr, these early services are a blessing!
🚌 Sample Route Timings During Ramadan
Here are examples of how popular routes adjust their schedules:
Route 13 (Mirqab ↔ Airport)
| Direction | First Trip | Last Trip |
|---|---|---|
| Mirqab to Airport | 4:00 AM | 12:20 AM (next day) |
| Airport to Mirqab | 4:20 AM | 12:20 AM (next day) |
Airport Express X1 (Fahaheel ↔ Airport)
| Direction | First Trip | Last Trip |
|---|---|---|
| Fahaheel to Airport | 4:00 AM | 2:00 AM (next day) |
| Airport to Fahaheel | 4:50 AM | 12:50 AM (next day) |
✈️ Airport Travelers: The Airport Express X1 extends service until 2:00 AM during Ramadan—perfect for late-night arrivals or early morning departures!
🍽️ What Happens During Iftar Time?
Iftar Hours (Approximately 6:00 PM – 6:30 PM)
Contrary to common belief, buses do NOT completely stop during Iftar. However, here's what you should expect:
✅ Routes continue operating — No full suspension
⚠️ Reduced frequency — Fewer buses during Iftar window
🚶 Fewer passengers — Most people are at home or breaking fast
⏱️ Temporary delays possible — Some routes may pause briefly
Best Practice During Iftar:
- Plan to travel before 5:30 PM or after 7:00 PM to avoid reduced frequency
- Allow extra time if traveling during Iftar hours
- Check the CityBus app for real-time updates
🔥 Reality Check: While the buses technically run during Iftar, you might wait longer than usual. If you're fasting and tired from the heat, it's better to plan your trip outside this window.
📅 Weekend Service During Ramadan
Fridays & Saturdays
Good news for weekend travelers—bus services generally maintain their Ramadan schedules on weekends:
- ✅ Similar frequency as weekdays
- ⚠️ Minor adjustments may occur on Fridays around Jumu'ah prayer time
- 📱 Check the app for any special announcements
Friday Considerations:
- Increased traffic near mosques around Jumu'ah time (12:00 PM – 2:00 PM)
- Some routes may experience slight delays
- Iftar timing adjustments still apply
💳 Ramadan Booking & Discounts
CityBus App Benefits
During Ramadan, booking through the official CityBus Kuwait app offers several advantages:
| Benefit | Details |
|---|---|
| Discounts | Special Ramadan offers when booking via app |
| Children Free | Kids under 10 travel free |
| Real-time Updates | Live schedule changes and route updates |
| Cashless Payment | Avoid the exact change hassle |
📱 Download the App:
💡 Money-Saving Tip: Booking through the app during Ramadan often gets you 10-15% off regular fares. Plus, you skip the queue and avoid needing exact change in coins!
🏢 MOWASALAT Office Hours During Ramadan
If you need customer service or want to purchase a bus pass in person:
| Service | Ramadan Hours |
|---|---|
| MOWASALAT Customer Service | 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM |
| Phone Support | Check official website |
Important: Office hours are significantly reduced during Ramadan, so plan ahead if you need in-person assistance.
🌟 Popular Routes & Their Ramadan Adjustments
Early Morning Routes (Perfect for Suhoor)
These routes are ideal if you need to travel during Suhoor time:
- Route 13 — Mirqab to Airport (starts 4:00 AM)
- Airport Express X1 — Fahaheel to Airport (starts 4:00 AM)
- Route 999 — Salmiya to Fahaheel (early service available)
- Route 66 — Farwaniya to Salmiya (early morning departures)
Late Night Routes (After Taraweeh)
If you're traveling after Taraweeh prayers or late-night gatherings:
- Airport Express X1 — Runs until 2:00 AM
- Airport Express X3 — Extended night service
- Route 77 — Operates until midnight or later
⚠️ Important Ramadan Travel Tips
1. Beat the Heat While Fasting
- Travel during early morning or after sunset when temperatures drop
- Buses have AC, but stations can be hot—bring water for after Iftar
- Wear light, breathable clothing
2. Plan Around Iftar
- Before 5:30 PM: Roads are less crowded, buses more frequent
- 6:00 PM – 6:30 PM: Reduced service, expect delays
- After 7:00 PM: Service resumes normal frequency
3. Peak Travel Times During Ramadan
- 4:00 AM – 6:00 AM: Suhoor rush (work commuters + Suhoor travelers)
- 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM: Post-Iftar movement (shopping, Taraweeh)
- 11:00 PM – 1:00 AM: Late-night travelers, airport routes busy
4. Cash & Payment
- Use the app to avoid exact change issues
- Some drivers may not have change during Ramadan (many are fasting too!)
- Bus passes work throughout Ramadan—no special pass needed
📱 How to Stay Updated
Ramadan schedules can vary slightly year to year, so always verify before traveling:
Official Resources:
- CityBus Kuwait App — Real-time updates and live tracking
- Official Website — citybuskw.com
- MOWASALAT Website — mowasalat.com
- Social Media — Follow @citybuskw on Facebook/Instagram for announcements
📢 Important: Special express routes or additional services may be announced during Ramadan. Check official channels regularly for updates!
💬 Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do buses stop completely during Iftar?
No. Buses continue operating during Iftar, but frequency may be reduced between 6:00-6:30 PM. Full service resumes shortly after.
Q: Are there special night buses during Ramadan?
Most regular routes extend their hours. Airport routes like X1 and X3 run until 2:00 AM.
Q: What time is the first bus during Suhoor?
Most routes start between 4:00-5:00 AM. Key routes like Route 13 and Airport Express X1 begin at 4:00 AM.
Q: Do weekend schedules change during Ramadan?
Weekend frequencies are generally maintained, with minor adjustments on Fridays around Jumu'ah prayer time.
Q: Can I use my regular bus pass during Ramadan?
Yes! Your existing CityBus or KPTC pass works throughout Ramadan with no changes.
Q: Are there discounts during Ramadan?
Yes, booking through the CityBus app often includes Ramadan-specific discounts. Children under 10 always travel free.
🎯 Who Benefits from Ramadan Bus Adjustments?
🌅 Suhoor Commuters
Early morning workers and those attending Suhoor gatherings benefit from 4:00 AM starts.
🕌 Taraweeh Travelers
Late-night services (until midnight or later) help people attending Taraweeh prayers at different mosques.
✈️ Airport Passengers
Extended hours on airport routes (X1, X3) accommodate travelers with early/late flights.
🛍️ Evening Shoppers
Post-Iftar services help those visiting malls, souqs, and restaurants during the busy 8-11 PM window.
🕋 Final Thoughts
Kuwait's public bus system makes genuine efforts to serve the community during Ramadan with extended hours, early morning services, and late-night routes. While there are minor adjustments during Iftar, the overall service remains reliable and affordable.
Key Takeaways:
- ✅ Buses start as early as 4:00 AM for Suhoor travelers
- ✅ Service runs until midnight-2:00 AM on most routes
- ✅ Minor frequency reductions during Iftar (6:00-6:30 PM)
- ✅ App bookings offer Ramadan discounts
- ✅ Weekend services generally maintained
Plan ahead, use the CityBus app for real-time updates, and travel comfortably during this blessed month!
🔗 Related Guides
- How to Use Kuwait Public Buses: Beginner's Guide
- Kuwait Bus Pass Guide: Types & Prices
- Complete Guide to Airport Routes
- All Bus Routes & Timings
Ramadan Mubarak from the Kuwait Bus Routes team!
Note: Timings may vary slightly each Ramadan. Always check the official CityBus Kuwait app or website 1-2 weeks before Ramadan for the exact schedule for that year.
Last updated: December 6, 2025
Sources: CityBus Kuwait, MOWASALAT official announcements
