Traveling between Salmiya, one of Kuwait's busiest residential and commercial districts, and Fahaheel, the major hub of the southern region, is a common daily journey for commuters. Although Kuwait's bus system is affordable, navigating this route can be confusing without knowing the right buses, transfer points, and on-the-ground realities of public transport in Kuwait.
This guide explains the best direct route, how to use connecting services, the fares, and essential travel tips to make your commute smoother.
1. The Most Direct Route — Bus 999
While routes like 51, 105, and 106 connect Fahaheel to other parts of Kuwait, the only route that directly links Salmiya and Fahaheel is:
🚍 Route 999 — Salmiya ↔ Fahaheel (via the Coastal Road)
Operators:
KPTC & CityBus (both run this route)
Direction:
Maliya (City Center) → Fahaheel
Perfect for:
Travelers wanting a direct, no-transfer journey.
| Route Number | Operator(s) | Primary Route | Major Stops |
|---|---|---|---|
| 999 | KPTC / CityBus | Maliya → Salmiya → Fahaheel | Embassies, Shaab Park, Apollo Hospital, Salmiya, Al Bedda Roundabout, Salwa, Messila, Sabah Al Salem, Egaila, Fintas, Mangaf, Fahaheel |
Why Route 999 Is the Best Choice
Route 999 is the fastest and simplest way to travel between the two districts. It runs parallel to the coast and passes through multiple high-activity areas such as Salmiya Co-Op, Holiday Inn Salmiya, Messila, Egaila, and Fintas before reaching Mangaf and Fahaheel.
If your goal is minimal hassle, choose Route 999.
2. Other Routes (51, 105, 106) & When Transfers Are Needed
Routes 51, 105, and 106 do not directly connect Salmiya and Fahaheel. They are useful only when combined with another bus—usually requiring transfers in Jleeb, Khaitan, Farwaniya, Messila, or the City Center (Mirqab/Maliya).
🚌 Route 105 — Fahaheel to Hassawi
Primarily covers southern Kuwait and northern residential areas.
Key Stops: Mangaf, Abu Halifa, Al Aqeela, Qurain, Sabah Al Salem, South Surra (PACI), Hassawi.
To use this route from Salmiya → Fahaheel: Take a bus from Salmiya toward Farwaniya/Khaitan, then transfer to Route 105.
🚌 Route 106 — Jleeb to Fahaheel
An important north–south corridor through residential areas.
Key Stops: Jleeb, Hassawi, Khaitan, 360 Mall, Messila, Sabah Al Salem, Egaila, Mahboula, Abu Halifa, Fahaheel.
From Salmiya: Take a bus such as Route 24 (Mirqab–Salmiya–Messila) or Route 66 (Salmiya–Hassawi) and transfer in Messila or Sabah Al Salem.
🚌 Route 51 — Sharq to Jleeb
Useful only for reaching transfer hubs.
Key Stops: Sharq, Mirqab, Maliya, Airport Road, Farwaniya, Dajeej, Jleeb.
From Salmiya: Take a bus to Mirqab/Maliya (e.g., Route 15), then transfer to Route 51 toward Jleeb, then switch again to a Fahaheel bus (106 or 999).
3. Fares, Passes & Payment Options
Kuwait's two main bus operators—KPTC (government) and CityBus (private)—use different fare systems.
🟦 KPTC (Government)
- Flat fare: 250 fils (0.250 KWD)
- Monthly pass: 11 KWD (all routes)
- Payment: Cash only (paid to driver)
🟧 CityBus (Private)
- Distance-based fare: ~ 0.200–1.000 KWD
- Monthly pass (all routes): 15 KWD
- Single-route monthly pass: 11 KWD
- Payment: Cash or Citybuskw app (E-wallet via K-Net, Apple Pay, cards)
For frequent travel between Salmiya and Fahaheel: A CityBus monthly pass can deliver significant savings, especially if using Route 999 daily.
4. Timings, Reliability & Transfer Tips
Bus Frequency and Operating Hours
- Most routes run early morning → midnight
- Peak frequency: every 15–20 minutes
- CityBus tends to be more frequent than KPTC
- Average public transport trip: 69 minutes
- 19 minutes typically spent waiting/transferring
Challenges to Expect
- No published schedules: KPTC and KGL publish almost no timing information; CityBus lists routes but no timetables.
- Unpredictable arrival times: Many riders report irregular schedules and inconsistent service.
- App issues: The Citybuskw app often fails to show live bus locations accurately.
5. Essential Tips for a Smoother Journey
1️⃣ Use Cash for Flexibility
Because schedules are unreliable and digital tracking is hit-or-miss, paying cash allows you to board whichever bus arrives first.
2️⃣ Stick to One Operator When Possible
There are no transfer discounts between operators. Switching buses = paying a new full fare.
Using Route 999 helps you avoid double fares.
3️⃣ Prepare for Kuwait's Extreme Heat
Outdoor bus stops offer minimal shade. In summer, temperatures can exceed 50°C (122°F). Bring water, use sun protection, and expect possible delays.
4️⃣ Consider Faster Alternatives
If time is critical, consider:
- Careem (ride-sharing)
- Airport-style taxis
- CityLink mini-bus (select areas)
These options are far more reliable during peak hours or extreme weather.
Final Recommendation
For a straightforward, budget-friendly trip between Salmiya and Fahaheel, always choose Route 999 when possible. Use other routes (51, 105, 106) only when you must detour through Jleeb, Farwaniya, or city-center transfer points.