Kuwait City Among Top 10 Most Polluted Cities Globally

Kuwait City has ranked among the world’s top 10 most polluted cities, as residents experience very poor air quality driven by dust and industrial emissions, according to air quality data.

The Air Quality Index (AQI) in Kuwait City has surged above 200, placing it in the “very unhealthy” category. Pollution levels are being dominated by fine particulate matter (PM2.5), which poses serious health risks, particularly for children, the elderly, and people with pre-existing respiratory or heart conditions.

Health experts warn that exposure to such conditions can increase the risk of respiratory illnesses, worsen cardiovascular problems, and impair lung function. Authorities are urging residents to limit outdoor activities during this temporary spike in pollution.

While current conditions are unusually severe, data shows that PM2.5 levels are approximately 28 times higher than the World Health Organization’s (WHO) annual guideline. However, long-term averages present a slightly different picture. In 2024, Kuwait City recorded an average PM2.5 concentration of 30.2 µg/m³, corresponding to an AQI of 88, which falls under the “moderate” category but still exceeds WHO guidelines by more than six times.

When will air quality improve in Kuwait?
Air quality in Kuwait is expected to remain poor throughout the day, with only minor improvements by evening. Forecasts indicate that pollution levels will stay within the “unhealthy for sensitive groups” range over the next few days.

What is causing poor air quality in Kuwait?
Kuwait’s air pollution is being fueled by a combination of industrial emissions, dust storms, and stagnant weather conditions. Emissions from the country’s oil and petrochemical industries release significant amounts of fine particles and gases into the atmosphere. These are compounded by frequent dust storms common in the Gulf’s arid climate, which elevate both PM2.5 and PM10 concentrations.

Weak winds and limited atmospheric circulation are also trapping pollutants close to the ground, worsening air quality across urban areas, including Kuwait City.

How can residents protect themselves?
Authorities and environmental experts recommend several precautionary measures during periods of poor air quality. Residents are advised to stay indoors when possible, keep doors and windows closed, and set air-conditioning systems to recirculation mode. Those who must go outside are encouraged to wear high-filtration masks, such as KN95 or FFP2 masks, and to use air purifiers indoors to reduce exposure to harmful particles.

Air quality conditions can change rapidly throughout the day, and residents are encouraged to monitor real-time air quality maps and alerts to stay informed.