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Kuwait travel guide - Travel S helper

Kuwait

travel guide

Kuwait, officially the Republic of Kuwait, is a nation in Western Asia. It has borders with Iraq and Saudi Arabia and is located on the northern edge of Eastern Arabia near the point of the Persian Gulf. Kuwait has a population of 4.2 million people as of 2014, with 1.3 million Kuwaitis (30.95 percent) and 2.9 million expats (69.05 percent).

In 1938, oil deposits were found. Between 1946 and 1982, the nation experienced a massive modernisation process. Kuwait had a period of geopolitical turmoil and economic catastrophe in the 1980s, after the stock market collapse. Iraq attacked Kuwait in 1990. Iraq’s occupation came to an end in 1991 as a result of coalition troops intervening militarily. At the conclusion of the war, significant efforts were made to rehabilitate the economy and restore the nation’s infrastructure.

Kuwait is a constitutional monarchy with a high-income economy bolstered by the sixth biggest oil reserves in the world. Kuwaiti dinar is the world’s most valuable currency. The World Bank ranks the nation fourth in terms of per capita income. Kuwait became the region’s most democratic nation in 1962, when the constitution was adopted.

70% of the population are expats, while 30% are Kuwaiti nationals. Kuwait earned the highest Human Development Index rating in the Arab world from 2001 to 2009. Kuwait is a regional leader in terms of gender equality, having the region’s lowest Global Gender Gap rating.

  • Population: 3,806,616 (as of the June 2012 census), includes about 2 million non-Kuwaitis.
  • Kuwaitis make up 45 percent of the population; other Arabs make up 35 percent, with Egyptians predominating; South Asians make up 9 percent; Iranians make up 4 percent; and others make up 7 percent.
  • Religion: Kuwait is one of the most religiously tolerant Gulf countries. While Islam is the official religion, with nearly 85 percent of the people following the Muslim faith (split into Sunni 70% and Shia 30%), others like as Christians, Hindus, and Parsis make up 15% of the population.
  • Electrical current is 220 volts alternating current, and plugs are either conventional British, Europlugs (2 prong diamond-shaped), or German Schuko. Adapters are easily accessible.
  • 112 is the emergency phone number (police, fire, and ambulance).
  • Kuwait International Airport (IATA: KWI), Latitude/Longitude: 29.240116/47.971252
  • The country is split into governorates, which are further subdivided into regions, which are further subdivided into blocks. Because street numbers may be duplicated across various blocks in the same region, knowing the area and block is essential. Because area names do not recur throughout the nation, mentioning the governorate after the region would be uncommon.
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Kuwait - Info Card

Population

4,420,110

Currency

Kuwaiti dinar

Time zone

UTC+3 (AST)

Area

17,818 km2 (6,880 sq mi)

Calling code

+965

Official language

Arabic

Kuwait | Introduction

Tourism in Kuwait

Tourism contributes 1.5 percent of GDP. The tourist sector produced almost $500 million in income in 2015. The majority of visitors are from GCC nations. Yachting is a popular pastime in Kuwait, which has the Gulf region’s biggest recreational boat market. The low amount of tourism is due in part to stringent visa requirements and an alcohol prohibition.

The annual “Hala Febrayer” festival, which includes music concerts, parades, and carnivals, draws a large number of visitors from surrounding GCC nations. The event, which runs from February 1 to February 28, is a month-long celebration of Kuwait’s freedom.

Geography

Kuwait, located in the north-east corner of the Arabian Peninsula, is one of the world’s smallest nations in terms of land area. Kuwait is located between the latitudes of 28° and 31° N, and the longitudes of 46° and 49° E. The Arabian Desert, which is flat and sandy, covers the majority of Kuwait. Kuwait is mostly flat, with the highest point being 306 meters (1,004 feet) above sea level.

Kuwait contains nine islands, all of which are deserted save for Failaka Island. The biggest island in Kuwait, with an area of 860 km2 (330 sq mi), is linked to the rest of the nation by a 2,380 m (7,808 ft) long bridge. Kuwait’s land area is deemed arable at 0.6 percent, with scant vegetation found along its 499-kilometer (310-mile) long coastline. Kuwait City is built on Kuwait Bay, which is a natural deep-water port.

The Burgan field in Kuwait has a confirmed oil reserve capacity of about 70 billion barrels (1.11010 m3). During the 1991 Kuwaiti oil fires, about 500 oil lakes were formed, spanning a total surface area of approximately 35.7 km2 (13.8 sq mi). The resultant soil pollution from oil and soot buildup has rendered areas of Kuwait uninhabitable in the east and south-east. Large areas of the Kuwaiti desert have been converted to semi-asphalt surfaces owing to sand and oil residue. The oil leaks during the Gulf War also had a significant impact on Kuwait’s maritime resources.

Climate

March is a warm month with a chance of thunderstorms. The northwest winds are chilly in the winter and scorching in the summer. Between July and October, southeasterly moist breezes appear. In the spring and early summer, south breezes are hot and dry. The shamal, a northwesterly wind that is frequent in June and July, produces violent sandstorms. Summers in Kuwait are among the warmest in the planet. The highest temperature ever recorded was 54.4 °C (129.9 °F), which is also the highest temperature ever recorded in Asia. Because to its northern location between Iraq and Iran, Kuwait suffers harsher winters than the other GCC nations.

National parks

The IUCN now recognizes five protected areas in Kuwait. As a result of Kuwait being the 169th party to the Ramsar Convention, the Mubarak al-Kabeer reserve on Bubyan island was recognized as the country’s first Wetland of International Importance. The 50,948-hectare reserve is made up of tiny lagoons and shallow salt marshes and serves as a rest point for migratory birds on two migration routes. The reserve is home to the world’s biggest crab-plover breeding colony.

Biodiversity

More than 363 bird species have been documented in Kuwait, with 18 of them breeding in the nation. Kuwait is located at the intersection of many main bird migratory routes, through which between 2 and 3 million birds travel each year. The wetlands in northern Kuwait and Jahra have grown in importance as a sanctuary for transit migrants. Kuwaiti islands are critical nesting grounds for four tern species and the Socotra cormorant.

The majority of Kuwait’s biodiversity is found in its maritime and littoral habitats. Kuwait has 28 mammal species, including gazelles, desert rabbits, and hedgehogs, which are abundant in the wild. Large carnivores like the wolf, caracal, and jackal are becoming more uncommon. The red fox and wild cat are two endangered animal species. Extinction of animals is caused by habitat degradation and unrestricted hunting. During the Gulf War, Kuwait’s environment was also severely damaged. There are forty reptile species documented, however none are indigenous to Kuwait.

Water and sanitation

There are no permanent rivers in Kuwait. It does contain wadis, the most famous of which is Wadi al Batin, which serves as the boundary between Kuwait and Iraq.

Water desalination is Kuwait’s main source of fresh water for drinking and household use. There are presently around six desalination facilities in operation. Kuwait was the first country in the world to utilize desalination to provide household water on a big scale. The first distillation plant in Kuwait was commissioned in 1951, marking the beginning of the country’s desalination history.

The Kuwaiti government commissioned the Swedish engineering firm VBB (Sweco) in 1965 to design and build a new water-supply system for Kuwait City. Sune Lindström, the company’s main architect, constructed five sets of water towers, totaling thirty one, which were dubbed “the mushroom towers.” The Emir of Kuwait, Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmed, desired a more magnificent design for a sixth location. The Kuwait Towers group consists of three towers, two of which also function as water towers. Water is pumped up to the tower from the desalination plant. The normal capacity of the thirty-three towers is 102,000 cubic meters of water. The Aga Khan Award for Architecture was given to “The Water Towers” (Kuwait Tower and Kuwait Water Towers) (1980 Cycle).

Groundwater, desalinated saltwater, and treated wastewater effluents are Kuwait’s only sources of fresh water. Three large municipal wastewater treatment facilities exist. The majority of water demand is now met by saltwater desalination facilities. Sewage disposal is managed through a nationwide sewage network that encompasses 98 percent of the country’s facilities.

Demographics

Kuwait’s population in 2014 was 4.1 million, including 1.2 million Kuwaitis, 1.1 million Arabs, 1.4 million Asian expats, and 76,698 Africans.

Ethnic groups

Expatriates make about 70% of Kuwait’s total population. Arabs make about 60% of Kuwait’s total population (including Arab expats). The biggest expat communities are Indians and Egyptians.

Religion

Kuwaiti society is multicultural and accepting. The majority of Kuwait’s population is Sunni Muslim, with a sizable Shia Muslim minority. The nation has a native Christian population, which is believed to number between 259 and 400 Christian Kuwaitis. Aside from Bahrain, Kuwait is the only GCC nation with a native Christian community that has citizenship. There are a few Bahá’ Kuwaiti citizens as well. According to 2007 estimates, Kuwait also has a sizable expatriate Christian, Hindu, Buddhist, and Sikh population.

Language

Arabic is a language that is spoken in (official). Although the classical form of Arabic is taught in schools, Kuwaitis, like the rest of the Arab world, utilize the Kuwaiti dialect in daily speech. The English language is extensively used and spoken. The majority of traffic signs in Kuwait are multilingual. English is taught as a second language in Kuwaiti schools starting in the first grade. Many Kuwaitis speak English well since there are many private English and American schools and colleges where all courses are taught in English and Arabic is studied. Many Kuwaitis send their children to these schools.

Internet & Communications

Phone

Kuwait’s country code is 965. Local phone numbers have eight digits. Numbers beginning with 2 are for landline telephones, whereas numbers beginning with 5, 6, or 9 are for mobile telephones, and numbers beginning with 1 are for service numbers. There are no area codes in Kuwait, therefore calling inside the country will never need an extra 0 at the start.

Kuwait has expensive international calling rates. Despite the fact that phoning abroad is likewise extremely inexpensive, To make international calls, it is best to utilize applications and services such as Line or Skype. Phoneserve cards are available for home use (mainly in Hawally) and may be used to make low-cost international calls. Users using credit cards also communicate through Skype and Yahoo Voice, although the Skype website is now blocked (However, the app can be used).

Some traditional corner stores known as “Baqqalat” (plural: Baqqala) sell an international calling card known as Big Boss, which provides low rates to Europe but only when calling landlines. Even when calling mobile phones in the rest of the world, the prices are reasonable.

Mobile

GSM is extensively used in Kuwait, and mobile phones are readily available. Zain, Wataniya Telecom (Ooredoo), and VIVA are the operators. Because roaming fees may be exorbitant, it is sense to get a local SIM card. Any of the authorised branches may provide you with a new SIM card. A SIM card may be purchased from most phone shops and does not need registration. The applicant’s passport is required for registration.

Internet

Kuwait has a number of internet and telecommunications service providers. The media in Kuwait is among the most vocal in the Gulf nations, with journalists self-censoring on royal family-related topics. Kuwait is one of the region’s fastest growing ICT marketplaces. Because the majority of Kuwaitis can afford to have Internet access at home, the nation has fewer Internet cafés than other Gulf countries.

LTE is now accessible almost everywhere. If there is no LTE, the connection will be switched to HSPA+, which is a very fast connection. VIVA charges the same amount for LTE as it does for 3G. Their network, however, is rather sluggish. The LTE rates for Zain and Wataniya vary from the 3G prices, although their networks are fast.

Economy

Kuwait’s economy is built on petroleum, and petroleum is the country’s primary export commodity. The Kuwaiti dinar is the world’s most valuable monetary unit. Kuwait is the world’s fourth wealthiest nation per capita, according to the World Bank. Kuwait is the second-richest GCC nation in terms of per capita income (after Qatar). Petroleum contributes approximately half of GDP and 90% of government revenue. Financial services are an example of a non-petroleum industry.

In Kuwait, there has been a substantial increase in entrepreneurship and small company start-ups during the last five years. The informal sector is also growing, owing mostly to the popularity of Instagram companies.

Kuwait is a significant provider of foreign economic aid to other countries via the Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development, a self-governing state organization established in 1961 on the model of international development agencies. The fund’s lending mission was extended to cover all developing nations worldwide in 1974.

Petroleum

Kuwait has proven crude oil reserves of 104 billion barrels, which are believed to represent 10% of global reserves. All natural resources in the nation are state property, according to the constitution. Kuwait presently pumps 2.9 million bpd, with a full output capability of little more than 3 million bpd.

Finance

The Kuwait Investment Authority (KIA) is the country’s sovereign wealth fund that focuses on international investment. The Kuwait Investment Authority (KIA) is the world’s oldest sovereign wealth fund. The Kuwaiti government has focused investments into Europe, the United States, and Asia Pacific since 1953. The holdings were worth $592 billion in assets as of 2015. It is the world’s fifth biggest sovereign wealth fund.

Kuwait leads the GCC financial business; the chasm that divides Kuwait from its Gulf neighbors in terms of tourism, transportation, and other diversification initiatives does not exist in the financial sector. The Emir has advocated for Kuwait to concentrate its economic growth efforts on the banking sector.

Kuwait’s historical dominance in banking (among the Gulf monarchs) goes back to the establishment of the National Bank of Kuwait in 1952. The bank was the Gulf’s first publicly listed business. The Souk Al-Manakh, an alternative stock market in Kuwait, developed in the late 1970s and early 1980s, dealing in shares of Gulf businesses. At its height, its market capitalization ranked third in the globe, behind only the United States and Japan and ahead of the United Kingdom and France.

Kuwait has a significant wealth-management sector that is unique in the area. Kuwaiti investment firms manage more assets than any other GCC nation save Saudi Arabia, which is considerably bigger. In a preliminary calculation, the Kuwait Financial Centre estimated that Kuwaiti companies accounted for more than one-third of all assets under management in the GCC. Kuwait’s relative strength in the banking sector extends to the stock market. For many years, the total worth of all businesses listed on the Kuwaiti market considerably exceeded that of any other GCC bourse, with the exception of Saudi Arabia. In 2011, financial and banking businesses accounted for more than half of the Kuwaiti bourse’s market capitalisation; among all Gulf nations, Kuwaiti financial-sector firms trailed only Saudi Arabia in overall market capitalization.

In recent years, Kuwaiti investment firms have spent a significant portion of their assets overseas, and their international assets have become much bigger than their domestic holdings.

Entry Requirements For Kuwait

Visa & Passport Requirements for Kuwait

Visa restrictions
Citizens of Israel and those with Israeli stamps and/or visas will be denied entry.

Visas on arrival are available to citizens of 35 countries at Kuwait’s airport and land borders. The on-arrival visa is authorized for a single entrance for up to three months and costs KD three + KD three for “stamping” (visa and stamping fee not required for Bahrain, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, UK and US, only one fee [3 KD] required for Germany). Among the 35 countries are: Andorra, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brunei, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hong Kong, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Monaco, Norway,Netherlands, New Zealand, Poland, Portugal, San Marino, Singapore, South Korea,Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, United Kingdom, United States of America and Vatican City.

All other nationalities need advance visas, which are obtained via an invitation from a sponsor in Kuwait. Invitations may be obtained through Kuwait Airways offices and large hotels, although the procedure might take up to a week and may include a charge.

IMPORT RESTRICTIONS
Visitors should be aware that alcohol and pork are illegal in the nation and cannot be brought. If you bring either of these items into the country, they will be seized at the airport, and you may face penalties for trying to import these prohibited items. On arrival, your baggage will be X-rayed and/or hand-searched.

How To Travel To Kuwait

Get In - By plane

Kuwait International Airport (IATA: KWI) is Kuwait’s sole airport and is serviced by many international airlines, with direct flights to the Middle East, Europe, Africa, and North America.

Kuwait Airways, the national airline, serves Frankfurt, Geneva, Rome, Kuala Lumpur, London, New York City, and Paris, as well as several other European, Asian, African, and Middle Eastern destinations, but it is best avoided: a flag carrier with a bad reputation, its planes are old, delays are common, and customer service is poor. However, if you are flying from JFK, you must utilize Kuwait Airways.

As part of its liberalisation program, the Kuwaiti government supported two new airlines in 2005: premium airline Wataniya Airways ceased operations without notice in March 2011, leaving many customers around the world stranded, while semi-low-cost carrier Jazeera Airways is a popular alternative for regional flights.

International airlines serving Kuwait include British Airways from London, Lufthansa from Frankfurt, KLM from Amsterdam, Singapore Airlines from Singapore, and Turkish Airlines from Istanbul, as well as connections through other major Gulf hubs (Dubai, Doha, Abu Dhabi, and so on) via Emirates Airlines, Qatar Airways, Etihad Airlines, Gulf Air, and many other airlines. Codeshare agreements with other members of many international airline alliances often result in lower flight prices than the carrier serving the route to and from Kuwait.

If you need a visa upon arrival, do not go to Arrivals; instead, seek for the “Visa Issuing” kiosks near the Dasman Lounge. Join the crowd (there will be no waiting) to get your passport duplicated, pick up a queue ticket, fill out a visa entrance form, and wait for your number to be called. (Be aware that you will only have 2 or 3 seconds to reply before being skipped.) Payment is exclusively accepted in Kuwaiti Dinar; there are many bureau de change in the arrivals area, with the best prices seeming to be for US dollars, Australian dollars, and Euros. You’ll also be given an A4-sized document completely in Arabic, which you must retain since it serves as your visa. You may now go right through immigration without having to wait in line; just present your visa paperwork at any counter and they will allow you through. Pass through the open gate for flight crew and present your visa to the guard immediately beyond passport check.

Taxis are available outside arrivals, with most destinations in the city costing no more than KD 5. Most hotels can arrange a transport for the same fee, if not free of charge, which may be a safer and more pleasant alternative, particularly for lone ladies. When the service is operational, you may also utilize the “limousine” service, which is situated to the right of the KD 6 outdoor exit. These have a reputation for having considerably safer drivers than airport taxis (which are typically operated by Kuwaiti nationals who do not adhere to set speed restrictions and would even drive on the verge/shoulder at 140kmph). It is unlawful for a normal cab to pick up arriving passengers at the airport, therefore most will reject due to the risk of heavy penalties, jail, or deportation. Regular taxis are a poorer option in most instances, since they are driven by chronically underpaid expatriates from Bangladesh, India, and Pakistan and are generally in bad condition. Regular taxi drivers are often clueless about where they are going, speak little or no English, and have little or no sense of personal cleanliness.

Get In - By car

Kuwait’s borders are shared by just two countries: Iraq and Saudi Arabia. Because the political situation in Iraq is unpredictable at the moment, it is best not to go that path. Long-distance bus services to Dammam and other locations in Saudi Arabia are available, but you must have a valid Saudi visa.

Get In - By bus

Kuwait has three bus companies: KPTC, City Bus, and KGL. KPTC, or Kuwait Public Transportation Company, operates solely inside Kuwait and is mostly utilized by impoverished expatriates working in low-wage professions. Buses are often badly maintained, un-airconditioned (and therefore dangerous in the heat), and should be avoided.

KGL is the only one of the three that offers flights to other GCC nations, although non-GCC nationals would most likely face visa issues.

Get In - By boat

Kuwait-Iran Shipping Company, phone +965 2410498, fax +965 2429508, handles scheduled ships to and from Iran. The ferries run three times a week from Kuwait’s Ash Shuwayk to Iran’s Bushehr. One-way tickets start at KD37.

In Bahrain, speedboats travel between Ash Shuwayk and Manama. A single ticket costs KD45.

How To Travel Around Kuwait

Kuwait has an excellent road infrastructure. All signage are written in both English and Arabic. The main north-south highways are essentially freeways with numbers such as Expressway 30, 40, and so forth. These are connected by progressively wide-spaced ring roads labeled First, Second, and so on, making navigating relatively simple.

Using Google Maps for navigation is an excellent choice since it provides traffic and route information, as well as all important destinations. However, if you need to locate a place by its address (which you usually won’t), Google Maps will even provide you with the incorrect address for your present location and locations. This is owing to the way Kuwait addresses operate, as well as a lack of adequate support for Kuwait subdivisions in Google Maps.

Areas are referred to as neighbourhoods, while blocks are referred to as sub-neighbourhoods. For example, if you live on Street 1, Block 1, Jabriya, your address will be Street 1, Kuwait City (since Kuwait is the only city, and neighbourhoods aren’t allowed to be mentioned in addresses). So, if you want to travel to/find a location using its address, make sure you download the free and simple-to-use official Kuwait Finder GIS system from its app store.

Get Around - By public transport

Kuwait’s public transportation system is sufficient, with three firms (KPTC, City Bus, and KGL) operating dozens of routes in each major city. Bus wait times vary from one minute for the most popular routes to fifteen minutes for less popular routes. All buses have air conditioning, and it is generally not difficult to locate a seat. However, during peak hours (7-9AM, 2-4PM, and 8-9PM), most routes are congested, and public transportation should be avoided if you want to travel comfortably. It should also be mentioned that, although regions with a large expatriate population are well-served by public transportation, Kuwaiti residential zones are mostly served by taxis.

Get Around - By taxi

These are identified by orange license plates and may be rented by the day, in which case rates should be agreed with in advance. Although most cabs have meters, they are seldom utilized since, in reality, meters are constantly “broken,” covered, missing, or just disregarded, and rates must be agreed upon in advance. Cabbies are notorious for charging exorbitant rates. There are also share-taxis available. The most practical method is to hail cabs from the side of the road. However, other sources have stated that it is not recommended, especially for ladies, and that cabs should be booked in advance by phone from a reliable taxi operator. The cream-colored cabs are the cheapest, but they are also the most likely to be badly maintained and potentially hazardous, given the speed and size of the rest of the cars on Kuwaiti highways.

Most taxis have a set charge, although those at hotel ranks are more costly. Inexperienced westerners regularly pay 2 to 5 times the normal prices, which are generally KD 0.500 (500 fils) for up to a 5-minute trip plus approximately 100 fils (KD 0.100) each minute after that. The sole exception is airport departures, which cost around 3 KD. Tipping is not required, however rates should be negotiated before entering the cab. To prevent disputes or loss of personal property if a taxi driver demands more than the agreed amount after arriving at the location, it is usual to gather all luggage and leave the vehicle before giving payment. If required, the passenger may put the money in the seat and walk away.

Get Around - By hire car

Self-drive is an option. If you provide an International Driving Permit, the rental business will be able to obtain the required temporary insurance, which is drawn on the driver’s visa, at the customer’s cost. When you arrive at Kuwait International Airport, the vehicle rental businesses will be on your left when you leave the baggage claim area. International businesses like as Avis and Budget, among others, may be found.

It should be mentioned, however, that driving in Kuwait, particularly if you are new to the country, may be very chaotic and scary. Turn signals and lane divides are essentially optional, speeding and aggressive driving are widespread, and traffic rules are seldom actively enforced. A legislation prohibiting the use of mobile phones while driving was just enacted (including but not limited to voice calls and text messaging or SMS.) If you’re driving, stay clear of the left-hand “fast” lane unless you don’t mind big 4-wheel drive cars following you.

If you are involved in an automobile accident, do not try to move your vehicle until the police have arrived and filed a report, otherwise you will be arrested.

Destinations in Kuwait

Cities in Kuwait

Kuwait is divided into six governorates, each of which has numerous regions. The majority of Jahra, Ahmadi, and Mubarak al-Kabeer are residential areas with little tourist attractions.

  • Capital – is where Kuwait City, the capital is located.
  • Jahra – 30 minutes northwest of Kuwait City by car
  • Ahmadi- 30 minutes
  • Hawalli – the closest southern Suburb, about 10 minutes by car
  • Farwaniya – 20 minutes
  • Mubarak al-Kabeer – 25 minutes

Other destinations in Kuwait

  • Shuwaikh is a 15-minute drive south-west of Kuwait City. Industrial district featuring a plethora of businesses, the majority of which specialize in home products.
  • Dajeej is around 20 minutes by vehicle south of Kuwait City. Industrial zone with a diverse selection of both contemporary and classic stores (e.g. carpets, fabrics, household goods).
  • Salmiya is a 10-minute drive from Kuwait City. Commercial and residential neighborhood featuring a variety of malls, restaurants, entertainment venues, and the beach.
  • Rai is the location of the Avenues, the Middle East’s second largest retail mall.

Accommodation & Hotels in Kuwait

Kuwaiti hotels are pricey, although big Western brands are widely represented. Light sleepers should bring ear plugs since public stated prayers are aired many times throughout the day, even before nightfall.

Chalets and other weekend accommodations may be leased in a variety of locations along the southern coast.

Things To See in Kuwait

Kuwait is not the best vacation destination in the area, but if you’re on a business trip, here are some sights to see:

  • Failaka Island, a harbor with numerous ancient dhows, is accessible by frequent ferry services. There are also some interesting Bronze Age and Greek archaeological sites to see, notably the island’s Greek temple. The Greeks who built an outpost on Failaka Island under Alexander the Great called it Ikarus. During the Iraqi invasion, Failaka suffered significant damage. Plans are presently being developed to turn the island into a large-scale tourist destination. KD 3.
  • The city of Al Jahra. Traditional-style boums and sambuks (boats) are still constructed in Al Jahrah, but the vessels are now used for pleasure rather than pearl fishing or trade.
  • Mina Al Ahmadi’s formal name is Mina Al Ahmadi. Mina Al Ahmadi, located 19 kilometers (12 miles) south of Kuwait City, is an oil port with massive jetties for supertanker traffic. The Kuwait Oil Company’s efforts is honored in the Oil Display Center (Reservations needed)
  • Cliffs in the Kazmah desert (go on Road 80, turn right to Road 801 to Bubiyan, take first exit and turn left). Because they are one of the few elevations in the Kuwaiti desert, these cliffs provide an excellent perspective of the bay when visibility is good. On weekends, many young Kuwaitis come here to test their Jeeps and Quads uphill.
  • Anywhere in the desert (go north on Road 801, west on Road 70 or south on road 306). Despite the fact that the city is expanding, Kuwait remains mainly a huge and desolate desert. Many roads leading out from the city will take you to areas where there is nothing but sand, sand, and more sand. While this isn’t something you’d seek for every weekend in the winter as the locals do, it’s a lovely experience to have once if you’re coming during the very hot summer.

Things To Do in Kuwait

  • Spas and sea clubs Many of Kuwait’s sea clubs include indoor and outdoor swimming pools, beaches, tennis courts, gymnasiums, bowling, and even karate.
  • Riding. In the winter, horse riding groups thrive. The Hunting and Equestrian Club is located near the Jaber Al Ahmed Al Sabah Armed Forces Hospital on the 6th ring road.
  • Golf. The “Sahara Club” golf course is situated next to the Hunting and Equestrian Club, just off the 6th ring road. It has a five-star restaurant as well as a spa.
  • Swimming and diving are two activities. Swimming is permitted on many public beaches along Gulf Street. Women in swimsuit are uncommon and may upset natives. Beach resorts such as Radisson SAS and Palms provide beaches for all genders but charge a fee. Swimming near the mainland is not advised, however, since most beach locations are also disposal grounds for raw, untreated sewage. Few houses have swimming pools, and those that do tend to be inside and below ground. Many of the larger hotels and spas feature fairly sized pools, although they may be very costly for non-guests.
  • Boating. Sailing and scuba diving are options. Powerboating is a popular pastime in Kuwait. Contact any of the hotels on the beach and they would be happy to organize a trip for you. The Hilton Resort, Movenpick Resort, Marina Hotel, and Radisson SAS are the finest beachfront hotels. Hiring a boat should be approached with caution, and the boat should be thoroughly examined for indications of neglect before consenting to a rental. Many unsuspecting visitors have been trapped at sea for hours while the coastguard ineptly tries a rescue since, like cars in Kuwait, technical upkeep is not a high priority for most boat owners.
  • Shopping malls The Avenues, located on the 5th ring road beyond Road 60, is Kuwait’s biggest mall. It is one of the biggest malls in the whole Middle East, with several apparel and technology shops, as well as a Carrefour and an Ikea. It also provides the finest cinematic experience in Kuwait, with VIP cinemas equipped with massage reclining chairs and a personal butler. Marina Mall (Salmiya), Souq Sharq (Sharq), 360 Mall (features a 3D IMax theater, situated in Jinoob al Surra between the 6th ring road and route 50), and Al-Kout Mall (Fahaheel) are other prominent shopping destinations.
  • Visiting Markets. Despite the increasing number of malls, Kuwait still has a large number of small markets. See the Buy section of the Kuwait City page for further information.

Food & Drinks in Kuwait

Food in Kuwait

Kuwait has a diverse range of eateries. Because there is practically no nightlife, most people go out to restaurants and shopping centers. In high-end restaurants, a broad range of foreign cuisines are offered, but certain strongly pork-based cuisines (German, for example) are notably missing. Kuwait is well-known for its culinary specialities as well as its catering services. Restaurants may be located in mall food courts, and many foreign restaurants are clustered together in certain locations in Kuwait, namely:

  • Behind the Roman Catholic Church in Kuwait City
  • Outside the Mövenpick Resort in Salmiya
  • In the Marina Crescent

Simply asking any local where the “Eateries Road” is will lead you to a road in Salmiya lined with local restaurants offering a wide variety of speciality sandwiches, juices, and snacks. Alternatively, visit any of the big shopping malls, which are also teeming with eateries serving everything from quick cuisine to fine dining. Every imaginable American corporation has a presence in Kuwait! Traditional Kuwaiti cuisine is still available at a few places. The Al-Marsa restaurant at the Le Meridien Hotel (Bneid Al Gar location) serves authentic Kuwaiti fish at a reasonable price. A better choice is the charming Shati Alwatia restaurant inside the Behbehani Villa complex in Kuwait City’s Qibla neighborhood (behind the Mosques), and another Kuwaiti restaurant is Ferij Suwailih in the Salmiya neighborhood. If you don’t feel like going out to dine, almost every restaurant and bistro in the nation will bring meals to your door. Order online from a variety of sites and enjoy the same menu options as at the restaurant for a little delivery charge (typically 200 to 400 Fils) added to the order total.

Each district has its own ‘Co-operative Society’ (Jumayya) for general food shopping, which typically consists of a supermarket and a general D.I.Y. store. When you pay for your groceries, the cashier will typically ask whether you have a receipt (which is given to local customers as a way to build up credits). It is also common for someone to load your shopping bags for you and bring them to your vehicle, unless you specify differently. If they do go to your vehicle, it is traditional to tip them approximately 1/2 KD, but they do not usually wait for it. Kuwait also has a diverse range of different supermarkets, ranging from high-quality local brands (The Sultan Company) to hypermarkets run by international heavyweights such as Carrefour, Geant, and an Indian chain, LuLu. All of them provide genuinely worldwide choices at generally reasonable rates.

Drinks in Kuwait

Tap water is drinkable, but much of it is desalinated and not especially delicious, and in the heat, you may have difficulty distinguishing between hot and cold taps. Bottled water is available for a few hundred fils everywhere.

Alcohol is prohibited in Kuwait: it may not be imported, produced, or supplied, and media often announce arrests of illicit distilleries.

Money & Shopping in Kuwait

The Kuwaiti dinar is the national currency (KD, KWD).

The dinar is denoted by 1000 fils. There are notes in denominations of KD 20, 10, 5, 1, 12, and 14, as well as coins in denominations of 100, 50, 20, 10, and 5 fils. Arabic numbers (the numerals used in English) appear on both sides of the notes, with Arabic numerals (the numerals used in English) appearing on the front and English numerals appearing on the reverse.

Keep in mind that the Kuwaiti Dinar is one of the world’s strongest currencies, with an exchange rate of 1KD typically hanging at or around US$3.50, making that oh-so-affordable-seeming 3KD burger even more surprising when you realize it’s more like $10.50!

Notes produced before to 1994, many of which were seized during the Iraqi occupation, are not legal currency. These are unlikely to be seen in Kuwait (the patterns are obviously different), but unscrupulous sellers in other countries have been known to attempt to pass them off. Images may be found at the Central Bank of Kuwait.

Exchanging money is tough, and exchanging travelers’ checks is much more complicated. Stick to ATMs, which are common and reliable. Credit cards are accepted at higher-end businesses.

Prices in Kuwait

Although Kuwait is a tax haven (zero percent VAT and zero percent income tax), it would be difficult to live on less than US$100 a day, and an ordinary hotel room can easily cost US$250 or more.

Tipping is not always required. Taking a service fee is now prohibited in Kuwait.

  • Medium burger combo meal: 1.800KWD (McDonalds’s)
  • Meal for 2, Mid-range Restaurant, Three-course: KD 10 – 12
  • Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant: 1.000KWD (Shawarma & Fatayir restaurants)
  • Oranges (1 kg): 400 – 450 fils
  • Milk (1 litre): 300 fils
  • Single medium latte with an add-shot at Starbucks: KD 2
  • Falafel sandwiches: 100 fils (includes chips (fries), salad and tahina, law doesn’t permit restaurant to increase that price)
  • Khubiz Irani (flat bread), fresh from the baker: 20 fils

Petrol costs are among the lowest in the world, sometimes being less than the price of water, which explains Kuwaitis’ love for large fuel-guzzling import cars from the United States.

Shopping in Kuwait

Kuwait is a tax-free zone. Custom-made goods, imported items, and international shipping may be costly, so buy carefully. Businesses are obliged by law to offer fortnightly exchanges on credit card purchases and returns or exchanges on non-credit card transactions. If you suspect a business is not following the rules, contact the Consumer Protection Department at 135.

Traditions & Customs in Kuwait

Women wear everything from bold designer clothes to head-to-toe black abayas with headscarves, while males wear T-shirts and shorts or the customary brilliant white dishdashah. Women, on the other hand, will want to avoid drawing undue attention to their midriffs. Low necklines, ironically, are less insulting. Bikinis are acceptable in hotel pools, but not at public beaches. Public nudity is strictly forbidden and will not be allowed.

If you eat, drink, or smoke in public during the holy month of Ramadan, you may be fined or perhaps imprisoned. The penalties is 100 KD (about US$350). Also, keep in mind that during Ramadan, working hours may be reduced and eateries may shut throughout the day. Most supermarkets, however, will stay open, so food may still be bought there. If you work, many companies will offer a place for Westerners to eat during Ramadan, but if they do not, it is not recommended to consume anything in the company of Muslim colleagues during Ramadan.

Avoid the following etiquette violations in Kuwait, which tourists, visitors, and expatriates working here are not exempt or excused from:

  • Although Kuwait is a reasonably democratic nation, the Emir is a delicate subject.
  • Do not photograph government buildings or locations near the border barrier.
  • Although homosexuality is banned in Kuwait, you will often see local guys kissing when greeting one other and holding hands when strolling together, since this is not considered gay conduct.
  • The public expression of affection between men and women is prohibited.

Culture Of Kuwait

Kuwaiti popular culture thrives and is even transferred to surrounding countries in the form of dialect poetry, cinema, theater, radio and television soap opera. The culture of Kuwait is the most similar to the culture of Bahrain among the Gulf Arab nations, as shown by the strong connection of the two states in theater performances and soap operas. Kuwait is generally regarded as the Gulf region’s cultural center, and has been nicknamed the “Hollywood of the Gulf” owing to the popularity of its Arabic television soap operas and theater.

Soap operas

Kuwaiti soap operas are the most popular in the Gulf area. The majority of Gulf soap operas are situated in Kuwait. Although they are typically done in Kuwaiti dialect, they have been presented successfully as far away as Tunisia. In Kuwait, soap operas have evolved into significant national hobbies. They are especially popular during Ramadan, when families congregate to break their fast. Among the most significant television productions in the Gulf area are Darb El Zalag, Khalti Gmasha, and Ruqayya wa Sabika.

Theatre

Kuwait is well-known for its in-house theatrical history. Kuwait is the only Gulf nation with a theatrical heritage. Kuwait’s theatrical movement is an important element of the country’s cultural life. Kuwait’s theatrical activity started in the 1920s, with the publication of the first spoken plays. Today, theater activities are still popular. The most famous actor is Abdulhussain Abdulredha. Bye Bye London and Saif al Arab are two of the region’s most significant theater performances.

The government established the Higher Institute of Theatrical Arts in 1975 to offer higher education in the theatrical arts. The institution is divided into many sections. Many performers, including Souad Abdullah, Mohammed Khalifa, and Mansour Al-Mansour, as well as a number of notable critics, like Ismail Fahd Ismail, have graduated from the institution.

Arts

Kuwait boasts the Arabian Peninsula’s oldest contemporary arts movement. Kuwait was the first Gulf nation to provide arts scholarships, beginning in 1936. Mojeb al-Dousari, a Kuwaiti artist, was the Gulf region’s first acknowledged visual artist. He is widely recognized as the region’s pioneer of portraiture. Al-Dousari established Kuwait’s first art gallery in 1943.

More than 20 art galleries can be found in Kuwait. After Dubai, Kuwait has the second most active gallery scene in the Gulf. The Sultan Gallery was the Gulf’s first professional Arab art gallery. Khalifa Al-Qattan was the first Kuwaiti artist to have a solo show in the country. In the early 1960s, he established “circulism,” a new art philosophy. Sami Mohammad, Thuraya Al-Baqsami, and Suzan Bushnaq are three other well-known Kuwaiti musicians.

Ismail Fahd Ismail was one of the first Kuwaiti authors to gain international acclaim. Among the pioneer authors are Taleb al-Refai, Laila al-Othman, A. H. Almaas, Taibah Al-Ibrahim, Najma Idrees, and Fatimah Yousif al-Ali.

Music

When it comes to the music business, Kuwait is a leader in the GCC. Kuwaiti music has had a significant impact on music culture in other GCC nations. Many Kuwaitis have become household names in other Arab nations as a result of satellite television channels during the past decade. The most well-known modern artists include Abdallah Al Rowaished, Nawal El Kuwaiti, Abdul Kareem Abdul-Qader, and Nabeel Shoail.

The government established the Further Institute of Musical Arts in 2002 to offer higher education in music. The institution is divided into many sections. The institution has produced a number of well-known artists. Kuwait has a number of music events, including the International Music Festival, which is organized by the National Council for Culture, Arts, and Letters (NCCAL). The annual Gulf Music Festival in Kuwait includes globally known jazz artists as well as local musicians.

Traditional Kuwaiti music reflects the country’s maritime history, as shown by songs like “fidjeri.” Kuwaiti music is influenced by various civilizations, including India and East Africa. Saleh and Daoud Al-Kuwaity were famous Kuwaiti musicians who composed over 650 songs, many of which are considered classic and are still played on radio stations across the Arab world. Kuwait pioneered modern music in the Gulf, and Kuwaitis were the region’s first commercial recording artists.

Sport

Football is Kuwait’s most popular sport. The Kuwait Football Association (KFA) is the country’s governing organization for football. The KFA organizes the national teams for men’s, women’s, and futsal. The Kuwaiti Premier Competition is Kuwait’s premier football league, with eighteen clubs. They won the 1980 AFC Asian Cup, finished second in the 1976 AFC Asian Cup, and finished third in the 1984 AFC Asian Cup. Kuwait has previously competed in one FIFA World Cup, in 1982, but was eliminated in the first round after a 1-1 draw with Czechoslovakia. Al-Arabi, Al-Fahaheel, Al-Jahra, Al-Kuwait, Al-Naser, Al-Salmiya, Al-Shabab, Al Qadsia, Al-Yarmouk, Kazma, Khaitan, Sulaibikhat, Sahel, and Tadamon are among the numerous football teams in Kuwait. In Kuwait, the greatest football rivalry is between Al-Arabi and Al Qadsia.

Basketball is one of the most popular sports in the United States. The Kuwait Basketball Association governs the Kuwait national basketball team (KBA). Kuwait debuted on the world stage in 1959. Eleven times, the national basketball team has competed in the FIBA Asian Championship. Kuwait’s top professional basketball league is the Kuwaiti Division I Basketball League. The Kuwait Cricket Association governs cricket in Kuwait. Rugby union is another developing sport.

The Kuwait Handball Association governs the Kuwait national handball team. The sport is generally regarded as Kuwait’s national symbol, despite the fact that football is more popular among the general public. Kuwait is also a founding member of the Asian Handball Federation, as well as the Asian Championship and the Club Champions League.

The Kuwait Ice Hockey Association governs hockey in Kuwait. Kuwait initially joined the International Ice Hockey Federation in 1985, but was kicked out in 1992 owing to a lack of ice hockey participation. In May 2009, Kuwait was re-admitted to the IIHF. Kuwait won the IIHF Challenge Cup of Asia in 2015.

Stay Safe & Healthy in Kuwait

The danger of crime in Kuwait is rated as low. Violent crimes against foreigners are uncommon, although they do happen. Women continue to face physical and verbal abuse. Kuwaiti drivers may sometimes be dangerous.

The government fully supports public health in local clinics and hospitals, with a 5KD ($17.88) charge paid by foreign visitors to Kuwait and a 1KD ($3.57) cost paid by expatriates with a resident visa or a visitor’s visa. Private non-governmental clinics are also available, although they are considerably more expensive, starting at 30KD ($107.31). In the event of an accident or an emergency, you will be entitled to free care. In the event of an emergency, dial 112.

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