The State Audit Bureau has approved the engineering, procurement, and construction contract to complete the first phase of the Mubarak Al-Kabeer Port project, paving the way for the implementation of the remaining phases. The contract for the next phase is expected to be signed next week, with an estimated cost of KD 1.2 billion.
Informed sources told Al-Rai that the project is one of seven agreements Kuwait signed with China, making it the first of these major initiatives to move forward. The approval follows intensive deliberations by the Ministerial Committee for the Follow-up of Major Development Projects, which monitors the execution of agreements and memoranda signed on September 22, 2023.
Sources also highlighted the efforts of Minister of Public Works Dr. Noura Al-Mashaan, who conducted field visits to Chinese ports to study modern port technologies and ensure effective implementation.
The project aims to transform the port into a regional transportation hub, aligning with Kuwait Vision 2035 and supporting the development of the northern region as an integrated economic and urban system. It is expected to diversify the economy, increase GDP, and restore Kuwait’s regional trading prominence, boosting commercial and export-import activities.
Phase One Includes:
- Infrastructure works: Construction of modern docks, container yards, buildings, and essential facilities.
- Excavation and dredging: Deepening the port basin and navigation channel to accommodate large vessels.
- Equipment and services: Manufacturing, supplying, installing, testing, and maintaining marine handling equipment.
- Consulting services: Supervision and project program management.
- Facility protection: Installation of a cathodic protection system for the quay wall and floating dock.
- Additional dredging: Small boat berth dredging for coast guard and defense vessels.
The project represents a key pillar for Kuwait’s economic growth, supporting sustainable development and positioning the state as a leading regional trade hub.
