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Kuwait Travel Market Experiences Strong Growth in February, Highlighting Cultural and Holiday Driven Demand, Everything You Need to Know
According to Wego, one of the top online travel agencies in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, there has been a significant 4.8% rise in travel bookings for Kuwait in February 2026 compared to the same period last year. The information provided shows that there has been a rise in both inbound and outbound travel, and this has been attributed to a number of key factors such as national holidays, cultural festivals, and preparations for the onset of Ramadan. February has always been one of the busiest months for travel in Kuwait, and this year has been no exception.
Hala February Boosts Inbound Travel to Kuwait
Wego’s data highlights a sharp increase in inbound travel to Kuwait during the Hala February festival, a major event in the country’s tourism calendar. The rise in bookings during this period saw a 9% increase compared to last year, signaling a strong regional interest in Kuwait’s festivals, entertainment events, shopping promotions, and the overall favorable winter weather.
The Hala February celebrations, known for their lively events and shopping experiences, attract a variety of regional tourists. The primary source markets for these travelers include Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Jordan, Bahrain, and Syria, with many opting for short-term stays to experience the cultural offerings and events. These statistics reflect Kuwait’s growing appeal as a destination for cultural tourism and entertainment in the MENA region, offering a variety of attractions to suit diverse tastes, including concerts, cultural exhibitions, and food festivals.
In addition to these attractions, Kuwait’s pleasant winter climate during February further incentivizes regional visitors. The cooler temperatures provide an ideal environment for tourists, making it a perfect getaway from the colder conditions elsewhere in the Gulf and neighboring countries.
National and Liberation Day Holidays: A Spike in Travel Demand
Kuwait’s National Day and Liberation Day holidays, which take place in late February, have historically been pivotal in shaping the country’s travel patterns. This year, outbound travel interest saw a significant spike around these public holidays, with searches for international trips increasing by 50% in the weeks leading up to the holidays.
Travelers from Kuwait traditionally use this extended break to explore regional destinations, with 74% of outbound travel searches focused on nearby destinations. Short-haul trips have proven to be the most popular, with destinations such as Dubai, Bahrain, and Riyadh seeing heightened demand during the holiday period. This trend highlights the strong preference for flexibility in travel dates and shorter trip durations, aligning with the time available during the public holidays.
Many Kuwaiti residents use the National and Liberation Day holidays as an opportunity to travel to nearby countries, either for family visits, leisure trips, or to take advantage of special events and promotions in regional cities. This short-term travel behavior is common in the Gulf, where quick weekend getaways are a preferred mode of travel.
Early Ramadan Preparations Impact Travel Planning
As February drew to a close, travel planning began to shift toward early preparations for Ramadan, the holy month observed by Muslims worldwide. Wego’s data indicated a 6% increase in travel bookings in the weeks leading up to Ramadan, compared to the same period last year. This rise in pre-Ramadan travel reflects a change in behavior as many Kuwaiti travelers schedule trips before the start of the fasting period.
Ramadan’s influence on travel patterns is evident in the type of trips being planned, with an emphasis on family-oriented vacations and culturally significant destinations. Shorter stay durations and a stronger focus on nearby destinations reflect the need for travelers to return home in time for Ramadan routines and obligations. Additionally, there is a growing interest in culturally relevant destinations where travelers can observe Ramadan traditions while exploring new places.
For Kuwaitis, Ramadan is a time for family gatherings, spiritual reflection, and community, and many prefer to travel during the lead-up to ensure they can be home for the start of the holy month. This shift in travel behavior underscores the importance of religious and cultural commitments in shaping travel decisions, as well as the need for flexibility in travel planning during this period.
The Role of Regional Travel in Kuwait’s Tourism Growth
The significant increase in outbound travel during February, especially around the National Day and Liberation Day holidays, highlights Kuwait’s growing influence in regional tourism. As residents seek nearby destinations for short-term trips, Kuwait’s geographical location as a central hub in the Gulf makes it a key player in the regional tourism industry. In particular, its close proximity to popular cities in Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Bahrain, and Jordan ensures that these destinations remain top choices for Kuwaiti travelers.
Moreover, Kuwait’s inbound tourism, driven by events like Hala February, continues to attract a large number of visitors from the MENA region. The country’s strategic positioning within the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) further strengthens its role as a leading cultural and tourism destination in the region, bolstered by its events, festivals, and entertainment offerings.
Tourism Trends for the Future
As travel trends in Kuwait continue to evolve, the country’s tourism sector is likely to see sustained growth, especially in terms of regional tourism. The combination of cultural events, public holidays, and strategic positioning within the GCC will keep Kuwait an attractive destination for both inbound and outbound travelers. Additionally, the shift towards early Ramadan travel planning reflects an increasing awareness of the cultural calendar and its impact on travel decisions.
