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Kabul International Airport

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Gateway to Afghanistan’s historic heartland
Airport in Afghanistan
Mainly serving (5 km)
19 destinations
There is a travel warning issued for this country. Please check the website of your country's foreign office for the latest information.

Kabul International Airport serves as Afghanistan’s main gateway to global travel. Located in the capital city, it connects travelers with domestic routes and international destinations across Asia and beyond. The airport handles flights from various airlines that link Kabul to major hubs such as Dubai, Istanbul and Delhi. As a central point for arrivals and departures, it provides essential services including customs, baggage claim and basic amenities. The facility supports both business travelers and tourists exploring the region’s history and culture.

Last update: 12 Oct 2026
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Kabul Airport Summary
Kabul International Airport is an airport near Kabul in Afghanistan. It currently offers regular passenger service to 19 destinations operated by 6 airlines.
Top airlines
Logo of Kam Air
Kam Air (RQ)
52 flights per week
Logo of Ariana Afghan Airlines
Ariana Afghan Airlines (FG)
45 flights per week
Logo of flydubai
flydubai (FZ)
14 flights per week
Top destinations
Cheapest destinations
Best destinations
Afghanistan – Quick facts
Power Grid: 220 V, 50 Hz
Plug: Type C , Type F
Type C:
Diagram of a Type C power plug
Type F:
Diagram of a Type F power plug

Read about power adapters
Currency: Afghan Afghani (AFN)
£1 ≈ AFN 86
Cashless info: Rating 1/5
Cash is the primary form of payment. Cashless options are rare and not widely accepted.

Save with a travel credit card
eSIM providers: Best value: Saily
Flexibility: Airalo
Read our in-depth comparison
Tipping: Tipping is not common but appreciated. A small amount for good service is acceptable.
Public drinking: Public drinking of alcohol is prohibited by law.
Public smoking: Smoking is common but restricted in some public areas.
Nowruz
(March)
Celebrated widely with events.
Independence Day
(August)
Closures and local events.
Eid al-Fitr
(Varies)
Family celebrations and closures.
Emergency contact: Emergency Numbers: 119 (Police, Fire), 102 (Ambulance)
Taxi apps: No major taxi apps available. Local transport is primarily arranged through drivers.
Other: Afghanistan has rich history and cultural landmarks but is currently unsafe for tourism.

Kabul International Airport serves as Afghanistan’s main gateway to global travel. Located in the capital city of Kabul it connects travelers with domestic routes and international destinations. The airport operates under strict security protocols ensuring smooth processes for passengers arriving or departing. Its layout includes terminals designed for both local flights and long-haul journeys.

Visitors will notice a clear separation between arrival and departure areas making navigation straightforward. Baggage claim zones are marked with signs in multiple languages helping non-native speakers find their luggage quickly. The terminal features basic amenities like seating spaces restrooms and food vendors selling simple meals at reasonable prices.

Security checks remain thorough reflecting global standards for passenger safety. Metal detectors and bag screening equipment ensure compliance without causing major delays during peak hours. Staff members assist with directions in case of confusion especially for those unfamiliar with airport procedures or local customs.

Transport links to the city center include taxis and shared rides providing affordable options for getting downtown. The airport’s location near central Kabul makes exploring nearby neighborhoods accessible within a short drive. For travelers planning longer stays the facility supports visa processing and offers limited luggage storage services when needed.

Helpful tips for Kabul International Airport

  • Arrive at least three hours early for security and customs clearance.
  • Carry a copy of your passport, visa and flight confirmation in both digital and paper formats to expedite immigration checks.
  • Check the airport’s official website or local news for any temporary closures or construction that may affect terminal access or parking availability.
  • The airport’s security procedures are stricter than many international hubs; avoid carrying liquids over 100ml and be prepared for additional screening of electronic devices.

How to get from Kabul Airport to popular destinations

To Herat:
From Kabul International Airport, you can take a private taxi or shared van to Herat, about 6–7 hours via the main highway. A taxi costs roughly AFN 80 (£0.93); a shared van is around AFN 15 (£0.17) per person. Buses run twice daily—early morning and late afternoon. Be mindful of road security checkpoints.

To Mazar-i-Sharif:
From Kabul International Airport you can travel to Mazar‑i‑Sharif by private taxi or shared van, taking roughly 8–10 hours. A taxi costs about AFN 120 (£1.39); a shared van is around AFN 20 (£0.23) per person. Buses depart twice daily—early morning and late afternoon. Be mindful of road security checkpoints.

To Kandahar:
From Kabul International Airport you can reach Kandahar by private taxi or shared van in about 3–4 hours via the main highway. A taxi costs roughly AFN 60 (£0.70); a shared van is around AFN 10 (£0.12) per person. Buses run twice daily—early morning and late afternoon. Pay attention to road security checkpoints.

Top destinations from Kabul Airport

Destination
Duration/Price
Weekdays
Airlines
Info
DXB Dubai

3 h 20 min.
£310 (avg.)
M
T
W
T
F
S
S
4 flights per day
Logo of flydubai +2
MZR Mazar-e Sharif International Airport

1 h 00 min.
£80 (avg.)
M
T
W
T
F
S
S
1-3 flights per day
Logo of Kam Air +1
HEA Herat

1 h 20 min.
£95 (avg.)
M
T
W
T
F
S
S
1-3 flights per day
Logo of Kam Air +1
IST Istanbul

5 h 38 min.
£480 (avg.)
M
T
W
T
F
S
S
1-3 flights per day
Logo of Turkish Airlines +2
DEL Delhi

2 h 03 min.
£600 (avg.)
M
T
W
T
F
S
S
1-2 flights per day
Logo of Kam Air +1
ISB Islamabad International Airport

1 h 07 min.
£140 (avg.)
M
T
W
T
F
S
S
1-2 flights per day
Logo of Kam Air +1
AUH Abu Dhabi

3 h 20 min.
£300 (avg.)
M
T
W
T
F
S
S
1 flights per day
Logo of Etihad Airways
JED King Abdulaziz International Airport

5 h 41 min.
£600 (avg.)
M
T
W
T
F
S
S
0-2 flights per day
Logo of Kam Air +1

Top airlines operating at Kabul Airport

Airline
Rating
Skytrax rank
Statistics
Top destinations from here
Logo of Kam Air
Kam Air (RQ)

12 destinations
52 flights per week
Most/Best:
Dubai
Logo of Ariana Afghan Airlines
Ariana Afghan Airlines (FG)

11 destinations
45 flights per week
Most to: Herat Best: Dubai
Logo of flydubai
flydubai (FZ)
# 74

1 destinations
14 flights per week
Logo of Turkish Airlines
Turkish Airlines (TK)
# 6

1 destinations
7 flights per week
Logo of Etihad Airways
Etihad Airways (EY)
# 26

1 destinations
7 flights per week
Logo of Iran Airtour
Iran Airtour (B9)

2 destinations
2 flights per week
Most/Best:
Tehran
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