Kuwait has finalized a $4.1 billion agreement with China State Construction and Communications Corporation Limited to complete construction of the Mubarak Al-Kabeer Port, a major infrastructure project intended to bolster the nation’s position as a regional and global trade hub. The deal, signed December 22, 2025, signifies a substantial investment in Kuwait’s economic diversification efforts, moving beyond its reliance on oil revenues. The contract covers engineering, procurement, and construction phases.
The State Audit Bureau of Kuwait announced the 1.28 billion Kuwaiti dinar ($4.164 billion) cost on Monday. Kuwaiti Prime Minister HH Sheikh Ahmad Abdullah al-Ahmad al-Sabah oversaw the signing ceremony held on Boubyan Island, where the port is being developed. The project aims to handle increased shipping traffic and cargo volumes.
Boosting Kuwait’s Trade Capabilities with Mubarak Al-Kabeer Port
The completion of Mubarak Al-Kabeer Port is central to Kuwait’s long-term strategy of becoming a key logistics center in the region. According to state media reports, the Prime Minister emphasized the port’s potential to significantly enhance Kuwait’s participation in international trade networks and strengthen its role in the global supply chain. This aligns with the nation’s Vision 2035, which prioritizes economic diversification.
Currently, Kuwait primarily relies on the Shuaiba Port for its maritime trade. However, Shuaiba is nearing capacity and lacks the modern infrastructure needed to compete effectively with other major ports in the Gulf region. The new port, with its deeper drafts and advanced facilities, is designed to accommodate larger vessels and handle a wider range of cargo.
Part of China’s Broader Infrastructure Initiative
The agreement is also noteworthy as a component of China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), a vast infrastructure development strategy spanning Asia, Africa, and Europe. Chinese acting charge d’affaires Liu Xiang highlighted the deal as contributing to the BRI’s goals. The initiative has seen substantial Chinese investment in ports, railways, and energy projects across numerous countries.
This project represents a continuation of strengthening ties between Kuwait and China. In 2023, the two nations signed seven memoranda of understanding covering various sectors beyond port infrastructure, including housing projects, water treatment facilities, and renewable energy sources. These agreements demonstrate a growing partnership focused on long-term economic cooperation.
Construction of Mubarak Al-Kabeer Port began in 2014, but faced delays. The initial phases focused on land reclamation and the construction of breakwaters and quay walls. The agreement with the China State Construction and Communications Corporation Limited is expected to accelerate the remaining work. Completion of the port is anticipated to create numerous jobs within Kuwait’s maritime industry and related logistics sectors.
While the financial commitment is substantial, the precise impact on Kuwait’s GDP remains to be seen. Additionally, experts will be closely monitoring how the port’s development integrates with broader regional port strategies and whether it will effectively attract the needed cargo traffic. Looking ahead, the next critical stage involves the commencement of full-scale construction activities, with an estimated completion timeframe still to be officially announced, but expected within the next several years. The success of the project will depend on efficient project management, timely procurement of materials, and effective coordination between Kuwaiti authorities and the Chinese contractor.
