Bubiyan Island

Bubiyan Island is Kuwait’s largest island, located in the far north of the country at the head of the Persian Gulf within Jahra Governorate. The island is largely flat, composed of tidal flats, salt marshes, and shallow coastal plains and is sparsely populated.

The island’s coastal wetlands support migratory and resident waterbirds and are notable for their ecological value along the northern Gulf. Human use has been limited compared with mainland Kuwait and much of the island remains undeveloped.

Historically the island has been used intermittently for grazing and other low-intensity uses; in recent decades conservation interest and limited development plans have been discussed. Parts of the coastal zone are important for bird migration and fish nursery habitat.

Bubiyan sits at the northeastern edge of the Persian Gulf near Kuwait’s border with Iraq, forming the northeastern limit of Kuwait’s maritime area.

• Size and character: Kuwait’s largest island, largely uninhabited and flat with extensive tidal flats and salt marshes
• Birdlife: Important stopover for migratory waterbirds and home to coastal wetland habitats

• Confirm access rules in advance - large parts of Bubiyan Island have restricted or protected status and public access is limited, so obtain permission or join an organized trip rather than trying to land independently.
• Plan any wildlife‑ or birdwatching visit for the cooler months when migratory birds concentrate in the area; organized nature trips will take you to the best hides and viewpoints while respecting protected zones.