KUWAIT: Municipality Director Ahmed Al-Manfouhi confirmed that Kuwait is experiencing a new wave of development, marked by the modernization and implementation of advanced projects along many coastal areas. These efforts aim to enhance and utilize these regions to present them in an aesthetic and contemporary manner, supporting Kuwait’s vision for 2040. He revealed that the estimated cost of the two waterfront development projects for the Sulaibikhat and Jahra coasts amounts to approximately KD 2 billion, with KD 1.5 billion allocated for the Sulaibikhat coast project and KD 500 million for the Jahra coast project.

Manfouhi stated that after securing the necessary approvals from the relevant authorities, including the Fatwa and Legislation Department, the Municipal Council and others, the municipality will involve the private sector and market these projects internationally. He emphasized that the Council of Ministers’ support in overseeing this significant project will positively impact its timely completion by all concerned authorities.

The Sulaibikhat Bay structural plan development project spans from the waterfront west of Kuwait City to the area overlooking the Sulaibikhat coast, from the borders of the Shuwaikh Free Zone to Um Al-Naml Island. It covers an area of 2,300 hectares with a 38 km long waterfront. The municipality’s comprehensive sustainable plan aims to develop the waterfront and the area overlooking the Sulaibikhat coast from Kuwait Bay, rehabilitate the marine and land environment, increase commercial, service and recreational projects, and involve the private sector in these projects with an investment period of up to 35 years.

The plan includes developing five key areas: Ibtikar zone, Sulaibikhat coast region, Sulaibikhat sports area, Ras Ushairij area and its islands. The expected benefits to the state include: Significant improvement of the natural environment; Provision of 6,000 new housing units for Kuwaiti families; Creation of 64,000 new jobs in innovation sectors; Establishment of resorts with 5,400 rooms and coastal activities.

Sulaibikhat project areas

Al-Manfouhi described the Sulaibikhat coast development project as encompassing five areas: (1) Ibtikar Zone: This zone will serve as a hub for offices, creative ideas, and business, linking to centers in the free zone, Kuwait University and the medical zone. It aims to blend business and green spaces.

(2) Sulaibikhat Coast Area: Designed to promote a healthy, active lifestyle, this area will mix residential zones, shops, and businesses to encourage walking, with various amenities like shopping, restaurants, cafes and picnic spots overlooking the bay. (3) Sulaibikhat Sports Area: This area will provide recreational activities for families and training spaces for athletes, featuring a central swimming pool, playgrounds, gyms and sports facilities.

(4) Ras Ushairij Area: Located in the northern part of Sulaibikhat Bay, this area will be a destination for leisure activities, with marine parks and a link between Kuwait City and the Doha area. It will also feature a museum and lighthouse. (5) Ushairij Islands: These islands will offer sandy beaches, luxury resorts, and marinas with stunning views of Kuwait City, the heights of Mutlaa and the Gulf, including marinas for private boats.

Jahra seafront

Regarding the Jahra waterfront development project (corniche), Manfouhi explained that the facade will be developed through an integrated plan that balances environmental considerations with the development of services and support for tourism and commercial facilities. This project aims to improve tourism and recreational services for citizens and residents.

The Jahra facade extends over 7.3 km from west of Doha West Station to the borders of the Jahra Nature Reserve, linking the residential development of Jaber Al-Ahmad City and Kuwait Bay. The development plan focuses on improving access to the waterfront, enhancing the quality of services, and supporting tourism and commercial facilities. The project is divided into three development areas, covering a total area of 3,438,385 sq m, including public and investment spaces.

Development vision

The Municipality’s study identified the objectives of the Jahra waterfront project, which include: Providing public recreational facilities; Involving the private sector in developing comfortable activities; Building a positive image of the Jahra area; Establishing a tourist and entertainment area to attract tourists; Promoting employment opportunities and economic development; Conserving and utilizing natural resources; Creating a link between the sea and the city and establishing a high standard of living with ambient luxury.