Jahra

Jahra, also referred to as Al Jahra, is the capital of Al Jahra Governorate, Kuwait. It is home to the historic Kuwaiti Red Fort, the site of the 1920 Battle of Jahra.

Understand

Farm in Jahra

Jahra was founded as an oasis village and was surrounded by agricultural land, predominantly consisting of palm tree cultivations. Over time it grew into a trading town.

Jahra is close to the infamous "Highway of Death", where during the Gulf War, the American-led coalition attacked Iraqi military personnel retreating from Kuwait, resulting in the deaths of hundreds of Iraqi forces and destruction of hundreds of vehicles.

Get in

Jahra is 32 km (20 mi) west of Kuwait City and is reachable by driving along Jahra Rd/Route 80. There is also a frequent bus service from Maliya Bus Station in Kuwait City to Al Jahra Hospital, which takes around one hour.

See

• 1 Kuwaiti Red Fort (Qaṣr al-Aḥmar). Also known as the Red Palace, this historic fort and museum was the site of the 1920 Battle of Jahra, which took place during the Kuwait-Najd War. (updated Dec 2024)

Buy

• 1 Jahra Mall, ☏ +965 56562040. Daily 9AM-11PM. A budget shopping mall in Jahra with a range of shops, grocery stores, restaurants cafes, toy stores and an ice skating rink. (updated Dec 2024)

Eat

• Freej Swaeleh, Mall Branch, Street 4. One of the best Kuwaiti restaurants in Jahra. The chicken majbous and lamb ribs are highly recommended. (updated Dec 2024)

Sleep

• 1 Al Jahra Copthorne Hotel & Resort, 625 Slayil St, ☏ +965 2459 0000. A model hotel with 261 rooms. Has an outdoor pool and alcohol-free sports bar. (updated Dec 2024)