Things To Do
in Kuwait City
Kuwait City, the capital and largest city of Kuwait, is a vibrant metropolis that serves as the political, cultural, and economic center of the country. Renowned for its modern skyline, which is punctuated by high-rise buildings like the iconic Kuwait Towers, the city also preserves its historical heritage within its architecture and museums.
Its coastal location along the Persian Gulf endows it with a bustling waterfront, offering both scenic views and a gateway to the nation's maritime activities.
- "Marhaban" - Hello
- "Shukran" - Thank you
- "Afwan" - You're welcome
- "Inshallah" - God willing
- "Ahlan wa sahlan" - Welcome
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $35 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1.50
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $40 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by visiting the iconic Kuwait Towers for breathtaking views of the city. Enjoy some coffee at the nearby café while soaking in the morning sun.
Head to the Grand Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world. Take a guided tour to learn about Islamic architecture and culture.
Stroll along the waterfront at the Marina Crescent. Dine at one of the many restaurants overlooking the sea, enjoying fresh local seafood.
Visit the Avenues Mall, one of the largest shopping malls in the region. Spend some time exploring the various shops and boutiques.
Enjoy lunch at one of the mall’s many restaurants and take a break at the entertainment area. Consider catching a movie or enjoying the indoor theme park.
Return to the mall for a bit more shopping or explore the nearby Souq Al-Mubarakiya. Experience the local market atmosphere and try some traditional snacks.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history, with numerous museums and historical sites.
- Modern infrastructure, offering a blend of traditional and contemporary living.
- Tax-free income, allowing residents to enjoy higher disposable income.
- Strategic location for business and trade within the Gulf region.
- Safety and low crime rates, providing a secure environment for residents.
- Extreme weather conditions, particularly during summer with high temperatures.
- Limited public transport options, making car ownership almost necessary.
- Cultural restrictions that may affect the lifestyle of expatriates and visitors.
- High cost of living, particularly in housing and education.
- Traffic congestion during peak hours, leading to longer commute times.
Best Activities in Kuwait City
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Iconic towers with a viewing sphere offering panoramic views of the city and the Arabian Gulf. There are also a museum and a restaurant.
Tall telecommunications tower with an observation deck providing stunning views of Kuwait City and the surrounding areas.
Enjoy a relaxing walk along the seaside promenade in Salmiya, offering beautiful views of the Gulf and various recreational facilities.
A popular family-friendly attraction with a diverse range of animal species, ideal for a day out in the open.
Tours
Uncover the best of Kuwait City with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Kuwait City
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic landmark offering panoramic views of the city and the Arabian Gulf
Green urban park with scenic viewpoints and modern architecture
Large shopping complex with a rooftop garden providing city views
Waterfront shopping center with views of the sea and city skyline
Food in Kuwait City
Kuwait City Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A spiced rice dish with either chicken, mutton, or fish, often accompanied by vegetables and served with a side of yogurt or salad. Can be found at local eateries such as
Must-Try!
A savory stuffed pastry filled with spiced meat, cheese, or vegetables, popularly available at street food stalls and bakeries.
A traditional Kuwaiti sweet cake made with rose water, saffron, cardamom, and various nuts, providing a delightful treat at many local patisseries.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Kuwait City better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
One of the oldest markets in Kuwait, offering an array of street food stalls where visitors can sample kebabs, grilled meats, falafel, and refreshing fruit juices.
Known for its delectable assortment of traditional Kuwaiti street food dishes such as Samboosa, Kebab, and Shawarma.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Kuwait City, it is important to dress modestly, especially in public areas. Men and women should ensure their clothing covers their shoulders, chest, and knees. Women are also expected to cover their hair with a headscarf or hijab.
Kuwaiti culture places a high value on respecting elders. It is customary to greet older individuals with deference and to use formal language when speaking to them. Showing respect to elders is an important aspect of social interaction.
Greetings are an important part of Kuwaiti culture. It is polite to greet others with the traditional Islamic greeting 'As-salamu alaykum' and respond with 'Wa alaykum as-salam.' Showing politeness and using formal language in interactions is highly valued.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Kuwait City with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Kuwait City
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory in Kuwait, but it is appreciated in some service industries such as restaurants, hotels, and taxis. In restaurants, a service charge may be included in the bill, but an additional 5-10% tip is customary for good service.
Cash is widely used for making payments in Kuwait, and credit cards are also accepted in many establishments, especially in urban areas like Kuwait City. It's important to note that in more traditional settings, cash may be the preferred form of payment.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Kuwait City.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild and pleasant weather, with blooming flowers and greenery. It's a great time to enjoy outdoor activities and cultural events.
Similar to spring, with mild temperatures and clear skies. It's a good time to explore the city and its attractions.
Cool and occasionally rainy weather. This season is ideal for sightseeing and experiencing Kuwait City's rich history and heritage.
Hot and dry, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C (104°F). It's advisable to stay indoors or seek air-conditioned activities during this time.
Kuwait City at Night
Hiking in Kuwait City
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic valley offering trails for hiking and exploration, featuring stunning rock formations and natural beauty.
The highest point in Kuwait, providing breathtaking views and a challenging hike for outdoor enthusiasts.
A tranquil and less populated area ideal for hiking along the coast and exploring the diverse ecosystem.
While it's primarily a beach destination, the surrounding areas offer trails and paths for light hiking near the waterfront.
A protected area featuring varied landscapes, where visitors can hike and observe local wildlife in their natural habitat.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Kuwait City through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Kuwait City by plane.
The primary international airport serving Kuwait City, it is located approximately 15 kilometers south of the city center.
Located in Dammam, Saudi Arabia, about 400 kilometers southeast of Kuwait City, it is one of the largest airports in the region.
This airport is located in Bahrain, approximately 600 kilometers to the south of Kuwait City, serving as a major hub in the Persian Gulf.
Situated in Abu Dhabi, UAE, about 1,000 kilometers to the southeast of Kuwait City, it is the second largest airport in the UAE.
Located in Dubai, UAE, approximately 1,200 kilometers to the southeast of Kuwait City, it is one of the busiest airports in the world.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The native population of Kuwait, who are citizens and hold Kuwaiti nationality.
A significant expatriate group in Kuwait City, many of whom work in various sectors, including education and healthcare.
One of the largest expatriate communities in Kuwait, primarily involved in the labor market and various businesses.
This group includes a sizable number of workers, contributing to different sectors such as construction and services.
A notable expatriate group, many of whom are engaged in trade and business activities.
Includes various Arab expatriate communities from countries like Jordan, Lebanon, and Palestine.
A growing expatriate community, particularly involved in labor-intensive jobs and construction.
A prominent group within the service sector, often working as domestic help and in healthcare.
This includes citizens from Western countries, often employed in high-skilled positions in the finance and oil sectors.
The Soul of Kuwait City
Discover the essence of Kuwait City through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Kuwait, with a strong national league and a passionate fan base.
Basketball enjoys considerable popularity, with both professional leagues and amateur teams participating in local competitions.
Handball is widely played and followed, with Kuwait's national teams competing in regional tournaments.
Volleyball is popular among both men and women, with various clubs and schools promoting the sport.
Track and field events are popular, especially in schools and universities, with athletes competing in various disciplines.
Camel racing is a traditional sport in Kuwait, attracting significant interest and cultural importance.
Motorsports, including car racing and motocross, have a growing following in Kuwait, with events held regularly.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kuwait City.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most restaurants and cafes in Kuwait City offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, with a growing number dedicated to these dietary preferences, such as Elevation Burger and GIA Cafe.
While traditional Kuwaiti cuisine often contains gluten, many establishments now cater to gluten-free diets, Noukhaza Gluten-Free Kitchen and Baker & Spice being noteworthy for their offerings.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Kuwait City with these cultural adventures.
