The study aims to identify key barriers and drivers associated with the adoption of circular economy (CE) in Kuwait’s construction industry. 36 barriers and 24 drivers were identified upon conducting an intensive literature review. A mixed research methodology was employed to conduct 10 interviews and 39 questionnaire surveys in order to gain insights of these barriers and drivers from the perceptions of the professionals within Kuwait’s construction industry. The findings demonstrate significant obstacles that impede the adoption of CE which include a lack of awareness and knowledge among stakeholders regarding CE principles and limited technological knowledge on how to design and operate circular projects. Additionally, a lack of client interest, demand and urgency prevents widespread adoption. The results also revealed that the key drivers that can facilitate the shift to a CE include the need for raising awareness and knowledge through education and government intervention, improve educational efforts and training programmes to advance the CE concept. Additionally, government support in the form of policies, regulations, and incentives is essential for promoting circular business practices. The obtained findings could form the basis for both industry stakeholders and policy makers to inform their policies and investment decisions to support the nation’s overall sustainability goals, by starting to focus on education and training of construction participants on the significance of adopting CE business model in the construction industry.