Kuwait Keeps Camping Season on Hold, Warns Against Setting Up Tents Without Permits

Municipality denies making a final decision to cancel the 2026–2027 camping season following an earlier announcement, confirming that the situation remains under review.

Kuwait Municipality has confirmed that no final decision has been made regarding whether the 2026–2027 spring camping season will proceed or be cancelled, warning that setting up camps or preparing camping sites during the current period constitutes a violation of existing regulations.

The clarification was issued on Thursday, November 12, 2026, just hours after reports circulated claiming that the camping season had been cancelled due to regional developments and public safety concerns.

The earlier announcement was subsequently withdrawn by media outlets.

Initial reports, including a news item carried by the Kuwait News Agency (KUNA), indicated that the camping season had been cancelled, citing statements attributed to the Spring Camping Committee.

However, Kuwait Municipality later issued a clarification confirming that the authorities were continuing to monitor and assess the situation in coordination with the relevant agencies.

The municipality emphasised that no final decision had been reached on whether to permit or cancel the season.

Kuwaiti media reports subsequently indicated that KUNA had withdrawn its earlier cancellation announcement.

The municipality explained that it had not yet announced the start of the camping season or opened applications for camping permits.

It stressed that establishing camps or beginning preparations at camping sites during this period would constitute a regulatory violation.

Residents and visitors were urged to await official announcements and instructions through the municipality's authorised communication channels.

Kuwait's camping season traditionally begins in mid-November and continues until mid-March, attracting large numbers of citizens and residents to desert areas.

The previous 2025–2026 season ended more than two weeks ahead of its usual conclusion amid security developments in the region.

The current situation means that individuals planning seasonal camping trips in Kuwait should not begin preparing campsites until the municipality officially announces the start of the season and its permit procedures.

Al Rehla advises individuals and desert tour operators to postpone financial commitments related to campsite preparations or associated services until the regulatory situation becomes clear.

Travellers should also monitor official announcements to avoid potential violations or non-refundable expenses.

However, the suspension of preparations for the seasonal camping programme does not necessarily constitute a blanket ban on all desert visits, as other outdoor activities remain subject to their respective regulations and official instructions.