Kuwait

Kuwait is a small, wealthy country located at the northern edge of Eastern Arabia at the tip of the Persian Gulf, sharing borders with Iraq and Saudi Arabia. It boasts a high-income economy backed by the world's sixth-largest known oil reserves, which significantly influences its prosperity.

Despite its desert landscape, Kuwait City, the capital, is known for its modern architecture, vibrant cultural scene, and substantial expatriate community, making it a unique blend of traditional Islamic culture and contemporary living.

Key Phrases

Speak like a local

  • "Marhaba (مرحبا)" - Hello
  • "Shukran (شكراً)" - Thank you
  • "Min fadlik (من فضلك)" - Please
  • "Aseel (أصيل)" - Authentic
  • "Inshallah (إن شاء الله)" - God willing

Day plans

Spend a day exploring around

day 1

Exploring Heritage and Culture

morning:Start your day with a visit to the iconic Kuwait Towers, offering panoramic views over the city and a delicious breakfast at the View restaurant.

afternoon:Explore the Kuwait National Museum to delve into the country's history and enjoy a traditional Kuwaiti lunch at Freej Swaileh.

evening:Spend the evening strolling around the Souq Al Mubarakiya, a vibrant market offering local goods and street food, before heading for a lively night-out at Arabella.

day 2

Seaside Serenity and Fun

morning:Relax and soak up the morning sun at the beautiful Al Shaheed Park, then indulge in a delightful breakfast at Café Bazza.

afternoon:Head to the Marina Crescent for some leisurely seaside shopping and grab a scrumptious seafood lunch at Fish Market.

evening:Experience the vibrant nightlife at the Scientific Center Walk, and enjoy a fun-filled night at the Sky Lounge.

day 3

History and Modernity Fusion

morning:Begin your day by visiting the historic Sadu House to explore traditional weaving techniques, followed by a delightful breakfast at The Gathering Bistro.

afternoon:Discover contemporary art at the Modern Art Museum and savor a delectable lunch at the charming Al Boom restaurant.

evening:Experience the modern side of Kuwait with an evening stroll at the Avenues Mall, followed by a night of entertainment at the Dhow Dinner Cruise.

day 4

Nature and Relaxation Retreat

morning:Embark on a peaceful morning walk at the beautiful Al Kout Mall boardwalk, with a hearty breakfast at Chocomelt Cafe to energize you for the day.

afternoon:Spend the afternoon at the idyllic Messilah Beach, enjoying various water activities and a delightful lunch at Pepper Steakhouse.

evening:Unwind with a calm evening at Marina beach and savor a serene dinner at the Salt Restaurant by the beach.

Kuwait's Famous Food

Delicacies in Kuwait you must try!

Machboos

A fragrant rice dish mixed with aromatic spices and your choice of meat, such as chicken, lamb, or fish. Best enjoyed at local restaurants and home-style eateries.

Must-Try!

Majboos Laham

Similar to Machboos, but specifically prepared with tender, spiced lamb. Widely available at local eateries and traditional Kuwaiti restaurants.

Gabout

A flavorful seafood dish made with fish, shrimp, or other seafood, cooked with rice and a blend of spices. Frequently found in coastal areas and seafood restaurants.

Mutabbaq Samak

A delectable fish-stuffed pastry, seasoned with local spices and served in many coastal eateries and traditional Kuwaiti restaurants.

Attractions in Kuwait

Nice places to capture memories

Kuwait Towers

Iconic towers offering panoramic views of the city and the Arabian Gulf

Al Shaheed Park

Beautiful park with various viewpoints offering stunning cityscapes and greenery

The Avenues Mall Skybridge

Skybridge connecting two sections of the mall, providing a great vantage point for city views

Kuwait National Museum

Museum with a rooftop garden providing expansive views of the city

Seasonal Advice

Best times to visit and what to expect in different seasons

Winter

Best time to visit Kuwait, with mild temperatures and clear skies. Expect cool evenings and occasional rainfall.

Spring

Another good time to visit, with moderate temperatures and blooming desert landscapes. Expect occasional dust storms.

Summer

Hot and dry, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C. Expect very high temperatures and occasional dust storms.

Autumn

Can still be hot, but temperatures start to cool down. Expect pleasant evenings and occasional rainfall.

Outdoor Activities in Kuwait

Fun outdoor pursuits

Diving

Enjoy diving and exploring the coral reefs and marine life in the waters off the coast of Kuwait.

Kite Surfing

Experience the thrill of kite surfing in the windswept beaches of Kuwait, such as in Al Bida'a and Al Khiran.

Desert Safari

Embark on a desert safari adventure to explore the vast and beautiful deserts of Kuwait, such as the Southern Desert and Jahra.

Fishing

Try your hand at fishing in Kuwait's coastal areas or at designated fishing spots, such as Al-Salmi and Al-Abdali.

Tipping & Payment

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

In Kuwait, tipping is generally not expected or required, as a service charge is often included in the bill at restaurants and hotels. However, it is appreciated to leave a small tip for exceptional service.

Payment

Cash is widely used for making payments in Kuwait, but credit and debit cards are also accepted in many establishments. It's common to pay for larger purchases and bills in cash, while card payments are more convenient for smaller transactions.

Local Etiquette

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting

In Kuwait, it is important to greet people with a handshake and a slight nod of the head, especially when meeting someone for the first time. Men should wait for a Kuwaiti woman to extend her hand for a handshake, as some may prefer not to have physical contact with men outside their family.

Dress Code

Modesty in dress is highly valued in Kuwait. Both men and women should dress conservatively, with women ensuring that their shoulders and knees are covered. It's also important to remove your shoes when entering someone's home.

Respect for Elders

In Kuwaiti culture, respect for elders is crucial. When in the presence of an older person, it is important to show deference and avoid contradicting or arguing with them. It is also customary to stand when an older person enters the room.

Things to do in Kuwait

Unique local experiences...

Safety

Safety in the country can be considered relatively high compared to many other regions in the Middle East. The crime rate is low, and violent crime is particularly rare. Authorities have a strong presence in urban areas, which contributes to an overall sense of security. Traffic accidents, however, are a significant concern due to high speeds and congested roads, so caution is advised when driving. When it comes to natural disasters, the region is not particularly prone to earthquakes or extreme weather events, although dust storms can occur periodically. While the majority of expatriates and locals enjoy peaceful lives, it is always wise to stay informed about local laws and cultural norms. Additionally, there may be restrictions regarding public demonstrations and political gatherings, which are best approached with caution. Overall, though, the environment is generally safe for residents and visitors alike.

Nightlife in Kuwait

Nightlife in Kuwait, while relatively modest compared to many Western and other Middle Eastern countries due to its conservative culture and strict regulations on alcohol, offers a unique and enjoyable experience. The city comes alive after sunset with a variety of activities and venues for those looking to unwind or socialize. Restaurants and cafes play a significant role in the nighttime scene, offering an array of international and local cuisines. Many of these establishments are located in vibrant areas such as The Avenues, Salmiya, and Souq Sharq. These places often stay open late into the evening, providing a lively atmosphere where people can gather over meals, coffee, and desserts. Kuwait also boasts numerous shopping malls that tend to stay open late, providing a plethora of dining, entertainment, and shopping options. These malls often feature entertainment zones, cinemas, and bowling alleys, catering to families and groups of friends looking for an engaging night out. For a more traditional experience, visitors and locals alike can explore the various night markets and souks, such as Souk Al-Mubarakiya. These markets offer a glimpse into Kuwaiti culture with stalls selling traditional goods, crafts, and delicious street food. Though the nightlife does not include clubs or bars due to the prohibition on alcohol, several high-end hotels offer non-alcoholic lounges and rooftop setups where patrons can enjoy mocktails, shisha, and scenic views of the city skyline or the Arabian Gulf. Cultural events also play a part in Kuwait’s nightlife. Theaters and cultural centers often host plays, music performances, and exhibitions, providing a rich cultural experience after dark. Overall, the nightlife in Kuwait is a blend of dining, shopping, cultural experiences, and social gatherings that reflect the country’s cultural values and offer a warm and welcoming atmosphere for both residents and visitors.

Costs of Living

The cost of living in this Middle Eastern country can vary significantly based on lifestyle, location, and personal choices. Here is a general overview of various expenses you might encounter: Housing: - Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center: approximately 300 to 600 KWD. - Rent for a similar apartment outside the city center: approximately 200 to 400 KWD. - Utilities (electricity, heating, cooling, water, garbage) for an average apartment: around 30 to 70 KWD per month. Food: - Meal at an inexpensive restaurant: around 3 to 5 KWD. - Meal for two at a mid-range restaurant: approximately 15 to 30 KWD. - Fast food combo meal: around 2 to 4 KWD. - Grocery items (1 liter of milk: around 0.6 KWD, a loaf of bread: about 0.2 KWD, 1 kg of rice: approximately 1.5 KWD). Transportation: - City public transport ticket: around 0.3 KWD. - Monthly public transport pass: approximately 10 KWD. - Taxi fare: starting at 1 KWD, with an additional charge per kilometer. Education: - International school tuition (annual): approximately 2,500 to 5,000 KWD per year. Health care: - Consultation fee for a doctor: around 5 to 20 KWD. - Health insurance (monthly): varies, but could be around 20 to 50 KWD depending on coverage. Leisure and entertainment: - Movie ticket: around 2 to 5 KWD. - Gym membership (monthly): approximately 20 to 30 KWD. - Beer (pint in a restaurant): around 3 to 5 KWD. Overall, while some costs might seem high, the lack of taxes and availability of some subsidized services can help balance living expenses for residents and expatriates.

Pet sitters in Kuwait

Relax and unwind while your furry friend enjoys making a new companion!

Continue exploring Kuwait

Discover local cities, attractions and more!

Kuwait CityAl Jahrā’Abū ḨulayfahAl AḩmadīAr Riqqah