Ali Al Salem Air Base
Ali Al Salem Air Base PCS Guide
Military Base History
U.S. Air Force Maj. Shannon Diffley, the 99th Inpatient Operations Squadron critical care unit flight commander, delivers a speech during a ceremony at Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada, June 3, 2024. Diffley distinguished herself by extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight...
Ali Al Salem Air Base serves as a major Kuwaiti military installation with a strong U.S. Air Force presence. Built in the 1980s, the base’s original mission was to strengthen Kuwait’s air defense and support regional security.
The base’s strategic location, about 23 miles from the Iraqi border, made it essential during times of regional tension. Its proximity has shaped its role in both national and coalition operations.
The base suffered heavy damage during the 1990 Iraqi invasion of Kuwait. After liberation in 1991, crews completed extensive repairs and upgrades to restore and expand its capabilities.
The U.S. Air Force began operations at Ali Al Salem in the late 1990s. The base quickly became a hub for air operations across the region, supporting a range of missions.
Ali Al Salem played a critical role in Operation Southern Watch, Operation Iraqi Freedom, and ongoing counterterrorism missions. It has hosted fighter, airlift, and support squadrons from various coalition partners.
- The base remains a key logistics and operational center for coalition forces.
- It supports both combat and humanitarian missions across the Middle East.
The installation has kept its original name, Ali Al Salem Air Base, throughout its history. Today, it stands as a symbol of U.S.-Kuwaiti military cooperation and regional stability.
Major Units & Training Programs
U.S. Air Force Maj. Shannon Diffley, the 99th Inpatient Operations Squadron critical care unit flight commander, delivers a speech during a ceremony at Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada, June 3, 2024. Diffley distinguished herself by extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight...
Major Units
386th Air Expeditionary Wing
Provides airlift, air refueling, and aeromedical evacuation support for operations throughout the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility. Serves as the primary host wing at Ali Al Salem Air Base, ensuring rapid mobility and sustainment capabilities.
387th Air Expeditionary Group
Responsible for base security, force protection, and support operations. Manages air base defense and contingency response missions for U.S. and coalition forces.
8th Expeditionary Air Mobility Squadron
Conducts aerial port operations and provides logistical support, including cargo and passenger movement for theater-wide air mobility missions.
Arrival & In-Processing
Multi-national forces lift a Kuwait Air Force Tucano aircraft over a gate on Ali Al Salem Air Base, Kuwait, from Oct. 15, 2021. The transportation of one Hawk and one Tucano between Al Mubarak Air Base and AASAB was done in coordination with the U.S. Army Mobility Command Battalion, the U.S. Air...
Welcome to Ali Al Salem Air Base. Being prepared with the right documents and understanding arrival procedures will help you and your family settle in quickly. Review all steps before your travel to ensure a smooth check-in. For more details, visit the official base website.
The main entry point for Ali Al Salem Air Base is the Main Gate, located at the primary entrance to the installation. The Main Gate operates 24/7 to support incoming personnel and families. All adults must present a valid Military ID, CAC, or dependent ID. State-issued driver's licenses must comply with the REAL ID Act; non-compliant IDs require a secondary form of identification. Security forces conduct 100% ID checks and may perform random vehicle inspections. Maintain heightened awareness and follow all posted security instructions. To sponsor visitors or family members, request a temporary pass at the gate or through your unit. All visitors must be vetted and escorted at all times.
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PCS Orders (multiple copies)
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Military ID/CAC
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Dependent ID Cards (if applicable)
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Marriage Certificate
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Birth Certificates for dependents
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Social Security Cards
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Vehicle Registration & Insurance
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Medical and Dental Records
Ali Al Salem Air Base offers a sponsor program for all incoming personnel. Request a sponsor by contacting your gaining unit or through your unit's administrative office. Your sponsor will provide arrival details, answer questions, and help with in-processing.
The primary in-processing location is the Welcome Center, situated near the Main Gate for easy access upon arrival. Operating hours are typically 0800–1700, Sunday through Thursday. In-processing includes stops at Personnel, Finance, Housing, Medical, and your assigned unit. Most personnel complete in-processing within 2–3 business days, depending on arrival time and documentation.
The Visitor Control Center (VCC) is located just outside the Main Gate. The VCC operates from 0800–1600, Sunday through Thursday. Services include issuing visitor passes, DBIDS registration, and processing guest sponsorship requests. All visitors must be accompanied by a sponsor at all times while on base.
PCS & Relocation Essentials
U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Clifford Roberts, 325th Contracting Squadron contracting officer, and his family, pose for a photo at Tyndall Air Force Base, Florida, July 21, 2022. Roberts and his family recently moved into base housing after a permanent change of station to Tyndall. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Anabel Del Valle)
Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) and Dislocation Allowance (DLA) help offset relocation costs. TLE reimburses you for temporary lodging while you wait for housing, while DLA helps cover miscellaneous moving expenses. Know your eligibility and keep all receipts. Ali Al Salem Air Base has unique in-processing steps; check with your sponsor and the base welcome center for current requirements. Visit official sites for the latest updates and entitlements.
Temporary Lodging Information
Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) allowance
PCS Tips
- Request a sponsor early to help with in-processing and local info.
- Keep orders, IDs, and important documents with you during travel.
- Understand your weight allowance to avoid excess charges.
- Label each box clearly with your name and destination address.
- Take photos of high-value items before pack-out.
- Coordinate pet travel well in advance—requirements may change.
- Contact the Base Housing Office as soon as possible for availability.
Important Forms & Links
Access the Defense Personal Property System to manage your move.
Check current rates for TLE, DLA, and other PCS entitlements.
Guidance and tools for every stage of your PCS move.
Estimate your Dislocation Allowance before you move.