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Update April 12, 2024

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Travel Advisory July 13, 2023

Kuwait - level 1: exercise normal precautions.

Last Update: Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed. 

Exercise normal precautions in Kuwait. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Do not travel to:

• The desert region near the border with Iraq due to the  prevalence of unexploded ordnance.

Exercise increased caution in:

• The Jeleeb Al-Shuyoukh area in Kuwait City due to  crime .

Due to risks to civil aviation operating within the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman region, including Kuwait, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued an advisory Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM) and/or a Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR). For more information U.S. citizens should consult the  Federal Aviation Administration’s Prohibitions, Restrictions and Notices .

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Kuwait.

If you decide to travel to Kuwait:

• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Stay alert in locations frequented and venues frequented by large groups of people and travelers or tourists.
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook   and  Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Kuwait.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel.
• U.S. citizens who travel abroad should always have a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

Desert Region North of the Mutla’a Ridge and Near the Border with Iraq – Level 4: Do Not Travel

Desert areas and certain beaches north of the Mutla’a Ridge continue to contain unexploded ordnance left over from the 1990-1991 Gulf War. Travelers should avoid areas that are “off the beaten path” and avoid touching objects that are potentially unexploded ordnance.

Visit our website for  Travel to High-Risk Areas .

Jeleeb Al-Shuyoukh – Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

The Kuwaiti Ministry of Interior has identified the neighborhood of Jeleeb Al-Shuyoukh on the outskirts of Kuwait International Airport as a high-crime area.

Embassy Messages

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Quick Facts

Six months from date of arrival.

One page per entry stamp.

Not required for tourist stays under 30 days

None for temporary visitors.

More than 3,000 KD needs be declared.

Embassies and Consulates

U.s. embassy kuwait.

Bayan, Block 13, Masjed Al-Aqsa Street, Kuwait City, Kuwait Telephone: +(965) 2259-1001 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(965) 2259-1001 Fax: +(965) 2259-1438 Email:   [email protected]

Destination Description

Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

As of June 9, 2022, the Kuwaiti government has resumed issuing visas on arrival to U.S. citizens visiting Kuwait. The visas are free for U.S. citizens and allow the visa holder to stay up to three months in Kuwait. To obtain a visa on arrival, U.S. citizens arriving in Kuwait must:

• Have a return ticket
• Not be restricted from entry to Kuwait
• Have a passport valid for at least six months after the date of arrival in Kuwait
• Provide the address of the place they will stay in Kuwait

Visit the  Kuwait Civil Aviation Authority website  for more information.

Visit the website of the  Embassy of Kuwait  in Washington, DC, and its Consulates General in Los Angeles and New York City for the most current visa information.

Some HIV/AIDS entry restrictions exist for visitors to and foreign residents of Kuwait. Residency permits require an HIV/AIDS test and permits may be denied if applicants test positive. If HIV-related illness becomes known, the resident must leave the country or be deported.

Please see the  CDC's travel page  for more travel-related health information.

Residence Permits/Civil IDs:  U.S. citizens seeking residency in Kuwait should have all the required legal documents authenticated the  Department of State Office of Authentications  and attested by the Embassy of Kuwait in Washington, DC or the Consulates General in Los Angeles or New York before arriving in Kuwait. The U.S. Embassy in Kuwait cannot provide this service.

If you are a resident and lose your new Civil ID and/or U.S. passport while outside of Kuwait, you must obtain a No Objection Certificate from the nearest Embassy or Consulate of Kuwait to enter as a resident since losing your U.S. passport invalidates your Civil ID. You may enter using a U.S. emergency passport.

Department of Defense Travelers:  The U.S. Embassy in Kuwait strongly advises active members of the U.S. military and military contractors arriving or departing on military air to contact the Theater Gateway office at 2221-6340 to ensure they go through the proper entrance or exit procedures in Kuwait.

Find information on  dual nationality ,  prevention of international child abduction , and  customs regulations  on our website.

Safety and Security

Terrorism: Terrorist groups and those inspired by such organizations are intent on attacking U.S. citizens abroad. Terrorists are increasingly using less sophisticated methods of attack- including knives, firearms, and vehicles – to more effectively target crowds. Frequently, their aim is vulnerable or unprotected targets, such as:

• High profile public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
• Hotels, clubs, and restaurants frequented by tourists
• Places of worship
• Shopping malls and markets
• Public transportation systems (including subways, buses, trains, and scheduled commercial flights)

Potential for Terrorist Activity: Kuwait continues to face the threat of terrorism. Terrorists may target U.S. citizens and interests in the Arabian Gulf and Arabian Peninsula.

For more information see our Terrorism  page.

Crime: Criminal activity is low. Nonetheless, reported incidents include petty theft, car break-ins, and harassment or sexual assault of women traveling alone.

The Embassy recommends that U.S. government personnel exercise increased caution in the Jeleeb Al-Shuyoukh area in Kuwait City due to crime. See the Kuwait Travel Advisory for more information.

Desert Region Near the Border of Iraq: U.S. government personnel are prohibited from personal travel within five kilometers of the Kuwait-Iraq border. See the Kuwait Travel Advisory for more information.

International Financial Scams: See the Department of State and the FBI pages for more information.

Internet romance and financial scams are prevalent in Kuwait. Scams are often initiated through Internet postings/profiles or by unsolicited emails and letters. Scammers almost always pose as U.S. citizens who have no one else to turn to for help. Common scams include:

• Romance/online dating
• Money transfers

Victims of Crime: U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the U.S. Embassy for assistance. Report crimes to the local police at 112 and contact the Embassy at 2259-1001. Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime.

See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

• Help you find appropriate medical care
• Assist you in reporting a crime to the police
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent
• Provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion.
• Provide a list of local attorneys
• Provide our information on victim’s compensation programs in the U.S.
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution
• Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home
• Replace a stolen or lost passport

Domestic Violence: Victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the Embassy for assistance.

Tourism: The tourism industry is generally regulated according to best practices and safety inspections and rules are regularly enforced. Hazardous areas/activities are identified with appropriate signage and professional staff is typically on hand in support of organized activities. In the event of an injury, adequate medical treatment is available throughout the country. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance. See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage .

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. Individuals who violate local laws, even unknowingly, may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits and licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities, prior to practicing or operating a business.

Alcohol and Drugs:

• Possession of alcohol and/or narcotics is illegal.
• Convictions for possession, use, and trafficking of drugs may include heavy fines, long jail sentences, or the death penalty.

The following actions are illegal and may also lead to prosecution, imprisonment, and immediate deportation:

• Humiliating or insulting any person verbally or through obscene gestures in a public place, including a police officer, public official, or private citizen.
• Taking pictures or video clips of government buildings, military installations, and oil-related infrastructure or of people without the subject’s knowledge or consent.
• Having unpaid debts.
• Driving without a Kuwait driver’s license after obtaining a residence permit.
• Prostitution and pornography.

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on crimes against minors abroad and the Department of Justice website.

Arrest Notification: If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our webpage for further information.

Travel Bans:  Business disputes, court orders to pay a settlement, immigration violations, or government investigations into both criminal and civil issues may result in the imposition of a travel ban, which will prohibit departure from Kuwait until the issue is resolved and the travel ban is lifted. U.S. citizens in Kuwait who are involved in disputes or investigations can check whether they have a travel ban by entering their civil ID number on the Kuwaiti Ministry of Interior website, found here . Since multiple Kuwaiti government agencies can impose travel bans, this database is not exhaustive. More information on travel bans in Kuwait is available here . 

Children Born Out of Wedlock: Sexual relations outside of marriage are a criminal offense. Parents may not be able to obtain a Kuwait birth certificate or residence permit for a child born out of wedlock and may be subject to prosecution and/or fines to document the birth of the child.

Customs: Alcohol, pork products, and pornography are prohibited.

Counterfeit and Pirated Goods: Although counterfeit and pirated goods are prevalent in many countries, they may still be illegal according to local laws. You may also pay fines or have to give them up if you bring them back to the United States. See the U.S. Department of Justice website for more information.

Faith-Based Travelers: See the following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report – see country reports
• Human Rights Report – see country reports
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTQI+ Travelers: Consensual same-sex sexual activity between men is illegal. The law punishes consensual intercourse between men of full age (21 and older) with imprisonment of up of to seven years. Men of full age who engage in consensual intercourse with men under age 21 may be imprisoned up to ten years. No laws criminalize same-sex sexual activity between women. Some LGBTQI+ travelers have reported difficulties entering Kuwait on a passport bearing a name and photo that do not correspond to their gender identity or expression.  Transgender individuals have reported harassment, detention, abuse, and assault by security forces.  Societal discrimination and harassment based on sexual orientation and gender identity is common.

See our LGBTI Travel Information page and section 6 of our Human Rights report on Kuwait for further details.

Travelers Who Require Accessibility Assistance: Accessibility and accommodations in Kuwait are different from those in the United States. The law prohibits discrimination against persons with permanent physical, sensory, intellectual, and mental disabilities in employment, education, air travel and other transportation, access to health care, or the provision of other government services. The law also mandates access to buildings for persons with disabilities.

 Public transportation is generally inaccessible for patrons with disabilities. Accessible parking spaces are marked, but often unavailable. Most medical facilities and public buildings have wheelchair ramps and elevators. Access to sign language interpretation is limited; Americans needing American Sign Language interpretation should plan ahead and have contact information for companies offering distance interpretation services through mobile phone apps, video phones, and other modalities.

Students: See our Students Abroad page and FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers: Many public places have dress codes for women requiring shoulders and knees to be covered. Women, especially those traveling alone, should exercise particular caution on public transit, when traveling via taxi, and in conservative or isolated areas. See our travel tips for Women Travelers .

Healthcare is adequate and accessible both in the government-run system and many private institutions. The government facilities provide services for foreigners at reasonable costs, and payment for all services is expected in advance. Government facilities offer more specialty care services, though wait times are often long and difficult to access for non-nationals. Psychological and psychiatric services are limited, even in the larger cities, with hospital-based care only available through government institutions. Some medical services are below U.S. standards. Most prescription and over-the-counter medicines are readily available at pharmacies. Emergency services are generally very responsive.

• For emergency services in Kuwait, dial  112 .
• Ambulance services are widely available in certain areas but training and availability of emergency responders may be below U.S. standards.

We do not pay medical bills:  Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance.

Medical Insurance:  Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers in Kuwait will accept cash or credit card payments. See our webpage for more  information on insurance providers for overseas coverage . Visit the  U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.

We strongly recommend  supplemental insurance  to cover medical evacuation.

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. Check with the  Embassy of Kuwait  in Washington, DC, the  Consulate General of Kuwait in Los Angeles ,  the Consulate General of Kuwait in New York City , or the Kuwait General Administration for Customs (Email :  [email protected] . Telephone: (+965) 24955000, Fax: (+965) 24838056) to ensure the medication is legal in Kuwait.

Vaccinations:  Be up-to-date on all vaccinations recommended by the  U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  (CDC) and the  Kuwait Ministry of Health . Please note that Kuwait’s vaccination requirements for residents are different and may require more inoculations than recommended by the CDC.

Further health information:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Air Quality:  Visit  AirNow Department of State  for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates. Air pollution is a significant problem in Kuwait. Consider the impact seasonal smog and heavy particulate pollution may have on you, and consult your doctor before traveling if necessary.

People at the greatest risk from particle pollution exposure include:

• Infants, children, and teens
• People over 65 years of age
• People with lung disease such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema
• People with heart disease or diabetes
• People who work or are active outdoors

The U.S. Embassy maintains a list of private medical and dental clinics , and the Kuwaiti government maintains a list of  hospitals  and  pharmacies . We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety: Driving in Kuwait is extremely hazardous due to excessive speeding, distracted driving, road rage, lax enforcement of traffic regulations, and a high volume of traffic. All major highways in Kuwait are dangerous due to excessive speeding. Roads have adequate signage. Passersby and emergency personnel react to accidents appropriately. Exercise increased caution when driving at night as some drivers do no use headlights. Drivers should avoid driving after heavy rainstorms or through standing water, be alert for flooded areas, and monitor local media for road closures and weather updates.

Traffic Laws:

• You are required to have your driver’s license with you at all times when operating a vehicle. There are no exceptions.
• Driving while intoxicated can result in fines, imprisonment, deportation, and/or revocation of your Kuwait driving license.
• It is against the law to use cell phones or text while driving.
• Use of seat belts is mandatory.
• Requests for bribes are uncommon.
• In case of emergency or traffic accident, call 112 .
• Involvement in an accident, whether or not you are at fault, can lead to arrest and detention. Immediately notify the police and remain at the scene until the police arrive.
• If you are injured in an accident that may result in a legal claim against you or that you wish to file against another party, you must seek medical attention at a public hospital. At the public hospital, an investigator will document your injuries. Failure to do this will limit your ability to seek legal remedy for any injuries you have suffered.
• At-fault accidents can result in arrests, demands for financial restitution, and/or travel bans preventing you from leaving Kuwait. Police at checkpoints may fine motorists arbitrarily.
• Traffic cameras capture stop light and speeding violations.
• Nonpayment of traffic and parking fines can result in seizure of your vehicle and travel bans. This means you cannot leave Kuwait until all fines and penalties are paid. You can pay traffic fines online through the MOI’s online portal .

Public Transportation:

• Use only marked and licensed taxis. Taxis are available at major hotels and by telephone.
• Do not sit in the front seat of taxis with the driver.
• Do not allow the driver to pick up unknown passengers or enter a taxi occupied by someone in addition to the driver.
• Be aware of the route driven by the taxi driver and ensure that the driver does not take you to an unfamiliar area.
• As with driving personal vehicles, remember to vary routes and times when utilizing taxis.
• Women should exercise increased caution when riding public buses due to sexual harassment.

See our Road Safety page for more information.

Aviation Safety Oversight: The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the government of Kuwait’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Kuwait’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the FAA's safety assessment page.

Maritime Travel: Mariners planning travel to Kuwait should also check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts . Information may also be posted to the U.S. Coast Guard homeport website and the NGA broadcast warnings website .

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Kuwait . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act (ICAPRA) report.

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Tourist information and travel tips.

Kuwait is a small, oil-rich constitutional emirate, with foreign workers constituting 90 percent of the labour force. Kuwaiti nationals constitute 1.1million of the 3.4million population in the country, and they get to enjoy the benefits of a generous social welfare system that guarantees employment, housing, education and healthcare.

Kuwait City has numerous attractions which include excellent museums, a corniche ornamented with combed beaches and extravagant restaurants, modern shopping complexes and marinas, long and lazy retreats, and new beach resorts.

Outside Kuwait City, however, there are only few attractions, except at resorts along the coast. Tourist development of the historical Failaka Island is still in developmental stage. There are flat desert plains that are given over for oil excavation, and there are few distinctive features.

West of Kuwait City is the Al-Jahra area, the place that unfortunately famed for the violence that took place there as Iraqi troops retreated during the Gulf War. Considering the numerous building projects there, it is possible to almost overlook the Iraqi invasions, and a decade has passed since the invasion. But, Kuwaitis are still coming out of their devastating experience, as there visible reminders of the war.

As for travellers, while in Kuwait, there are some definite rules that need to be followed to avoid any faux-pas, so that local populace is not offended. Further, the tips given herein can help you in taking care of all that you need to, before planning a trip to Kuwait .

What is the best time to visit Kuwait?

Kuwait's weather pattern is similar to that of Europe, although the weather here is hotter and drier. Summers (April to October) are hot and humid with very little rain. Winters (November to March) are cool with limited rain, while Spring (February to April) is cool and pleasant.

If you happen to visit Kuwait in summer, there are plenty of air-conditioned amenities to make your summer visit tolerable. The winter months are chilly in the evenings, but, with pleasant daytime temperatures. During Spring, the desert is laced in a transparent lime green, decorated with petunias, making it the ideal time to visit.

• Transportation

Kuwait has cheap and well-spread transport system with local and intercity buses that operate round-the-clock. Taxis charge a flat rate between the city and airport. Local taxis without meters are available for getting around. To hire a car, one must have an International Driving Permit.

Women travellers / travellers with special needs

Women travelling alone may have some problems entering and leaving the country, or when getting around the country, or staying in a hotel by themselves. Check with your local Kuwaiti Consulate, before travelling, to ensure all is fine, and get a contact name and number.

Women have reported stray incidences of harassment, in areas around the Salmiya locality, but, most shopkeepers are willing to help out if someone is especially persistent. Female travellers should keep in mind the cultural differences among several people who co-exist in Kuwait, and should be aware that unwitting actions may invite unwanted attention. Female travellers may dress modestly and generally maintain a low profile, as it may deter harassment. General modesty of behaviour and dress is expected in public. Women wearing shorts or tight-fitting clothes, particularly in downtown areas are likely to attract unwelcome attention.

Individuals with special needs may find accessibility and accommodation easy in Kuwait , as the law mandates access to buildings for people with disabilities. The government enforces such provisions, and also supervises and contributes to schools and job training programs that cater to people with special needs.

A visa is required by all visitors to Kuwait , except GCC nationals, who have the right to enter and live in Kuwait without having to go through any particular formalities.

Nationals from several other countries, including Canada, Australia, US and the EU are eligible to apply for a Kuwait Visa online (eVisa). The online application process is quite simple and quick, as the applicants just have to answer a series of basic questions. Also, all expatriates residing in GCC countries, irrespective of their citizenship, can apply for eVisa Kuwait.

Prior to the introduction of eVisa system in Kuwait (before 2016), visitors had to visit an embassy or consulate, or line up at the border points to obtain a visa. With the eVisa now made available, this process is easier. However, other types of Kuwait Visa procedures are still available.

Upon submitting the Visa application form online, a copy of the visa will be sent to the applicant by email. For entering Kuwait, the visitor can show a copy of this visa along with their passport to the concerned authorities at the Kuwaiti border.

It should be noted that visitors who enter Kuwait are not allowed to work. If you wish to work in Kuwait , you should obtain a residence visa and a work permit.

The types of visas include a Visit Visa with validity period of 1 month, a Business Visa (validity of 6 months), Transit visa (validity of 1 week) and Tourist visa (valid for 3 months) and Residence visa (valid for 10 years, but, civil ID needs to be renewed annually).

Among the non-GCC countries, nationals of the below said countries will be granted visa on arrival in Kuwait, or they may take an e-visa prior to their arrival in Kuwait.

Such countries include All European Union nations, Andorra, Australia, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Brunei, Cambodia, Canada, Georgia, Hong Kong, Iceland, India, Japan, Laos, Liechtenstein, Malaysia, Monaco, New Zealand, Norway, Pakistan, San Marino, Serbia, Singapore, South Korea, Swaziland, Switzerland, Turkey, United States, Vatican City and Vietnam.

If you have an Israeli stamp in your passport, you may be refused visa, or if you plan to enter Kuwait over land from Iraq, you could obtain a visa in advance.

Travellers who overstay their visas, or do not complete Kuwaiti exit procedures, may be required to pay huge fines before departing Kuwait, and/or are likely to be imprisoned.

Kuwait Tourist Visa (e-visa)

This Kuwait online visa or eVisa enables you to visit Kuwait and travel around for touristic purpose.  All foreign nationals and residents in GCC countries, irrespective of their nationalities are eligible to apply for a Kuwait eVisa.  Those seeking a Kuwait Online Visa will have to complete an online application with their biographical information and valid travel document, passport information.

The processing time may be between one day and three business days. Once approved, the visitor will be sent an email of the eVisa, thereby saving him the hassle of going to an embassy or consulate to submit a visa application. The Kuwait Online Visa has a validity of  90 days  and is a  single-entry visa . For online application, visit  https://evisa.moi.gov.kw/evisa/home_e.do

Kuwait has also implemented biometrics, and fingerprints, which will be taken for both visitor and resident visa holders on entry and exit.

For further information on entry and exit requirements, travellers can contact their respective embassy in Kuwait.

Kuwait Customs

Kuwaiti customs authorities enforce strict regulations for temporary importation into or export from Kuwait on items such as religious materials, firearms, pornography and alcohol. Alcohol, pork products and pornography are considered illegal in Kuwait.

Travellers with prescription medications should carry them in their original packaging or bottle, as dispensed, along with a copy of their prescription, in case the authorities question about their importation to Kuwait.

Before visiting Kuwait, it is important to keep in mind that pork, alcohol, homosexuality, heterosexual sex outside marriage, pornography and cross-dressing are illegal.

All alcoholic beverages and associated materials, beef, pigs, pork, pigskin products (such as handbags, wallets), are denied entry into Kuwait.

A special permit from the Kuwait Ministry of Interior will be required to legally import any weapons into the country. Jewels, precious stones and metals may be imported subject to approval by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.

Authority should be obtained from the Health Ministry for drugs and medicines. Pets and other animals imported into the country will require Veterinarian Health Certification, and permission from General Directorate for Agricultural and Sea Wealth. All birds species originating from Italy, Malaysia, Jordan, Albania, Palestine, Thailand, Ukraine and Zimbabwe, and animals from Iraq are banned entry into Kuwait.

Baggages of all travellers are screened before entry into Kuwait.

Accommodation

Visitors to Kuwait should have accommodation and all such set-up beforehand, as independent travel is fairly new to the country. Hotels here range from deluxe to first and second class. Several top hotels in Kuwait feature restaurants, sport complexes and shopping malls. Serviced apartments with hotel-style room service are also available. Prices are usually high. All rates are subject to 15 percent service charge.

Contact your General Physician at least eight weeks prior to your trip to Kuwait, to check if you need any vaccinations or other preventive measures. Kuwait has a state medical service with local clinics and several good hospitals. Nationals can avail healthcare at low cost in government clinics. Apart from this, there are several doctors and dentists in private practice/hospitals. However, the fees are controlled by the State and are expensive. Ensure that you have adequate travel health insurance and accessible funds to cover cost of medical treatment while in Kuwait and repatriation.

In case of any medical emergency, dial 112 for assistance. In case you are referred to a medical facility for treatment, contact your insurance/medical assistance company. When taking travel and medical insurance before travelling, check for any exclusions, and check if your policy covers you for all activities you wish to undertake.

Recommended travel vaccinations for Kuwait include Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid, Rabies, Anthrax, Meningitis, Measles, Polio, Mumps, MMR, Tdap (Tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis), Chickenpox, Shingles, Pneumonia and Influenza.

Dengue is present in Kuwait. Repellents or netting are recommended for a trip to Kuwait, especially along the coast.

Personal Safety

There is general threat from terrorism, and terrorists continue to issue statements threatening to carry out attacks in the Gulf region. The attacks, therefore, cannot be ruled out, and may be indiscriminate, including in places frequented by expats and foreign travellers.

International events and political developments (including elections) may also prompt demonstrations in Kuwait. You should take particular care in the areas of Jahra, Sulaibaya and areas near the border with Iraq. 

Just as in any other country, it is best to maintain a high level of security awareness and exercise caution in public places and on roads, and in general avoid large crowd and demonstrations.

Emergency Numbers

Emergency Line in Kuwait (police, ambulance, fire services) – 112 (accessible 24/7) Kuwait International Airport – 161 Public Institution for Social Security – 114 Electricity and Water Emergency – 152 Complaints of Consumer Protection – Ministry of Commerce & Industry – 135 Hotline of Kuwait Municipality – 139 Hotline of Ministry of Health – 151 Zakat House – 175 Civil Service Commission – 1828888 - 133

Kuwait has a good road network between cities. The Kuwait Transport Company operates a nationwide service which is reliable and inexpensive. Taxis are recognized by red license plates and may be hired during the day, wherein fares are agreed beforehand. Share-taxis are also available. Taxis can be made available by a phone call, and this service is popular and reliable. A standard rate is applicable to most taxis, but those at hotel ranks are more expensive. Tipping is not expected.

Self-drive is also available. Driving is on the right. Visitors can use international driving permits issued by their respective countries within the time limit of their visas. On producing international driving permit, the rental company will grant a temporary local license, with one month validity. It is illegal to drive in Kuwait without a driving license and car registration documents. Insurance should be arranged with Gulf Insurance Company or Kuwait Insurance Company.

Foreign visitors can bring their vehicles to Kuwait on temporary basis for upto three months. To obtain a Kuwaiti driver license, an applicant must be legally resident for at least two years in Kuwait. People who arrived from some countries (for instance, Westerners) may obtain a Kuwaiti driver license on the strength of their domestic driver licenses. Other must apply for a learner driver license and pass a driving test.

The highways and road systems in Kuwait are among the best in the world, with most highways being four lanes wide, and outside Kuwait city, there is hardly any traffic. When using road transport, only authorised road border crossing points into Iraq and Saudi Arabia should be used. Any other unauthorised movement in the vicinity of borders is considered illegal and dangerous. Off-road driving is discouraged, and if you happen to travel off-road, it is better to confine your movements whether by bicycle or on foot.

For trips to offshore islands, dhows and other small craft may be chartered. Kuwait has restrictions on eligibility requirements for driver licenses. Driving in excess of speed limits, switching lanes without warning, frequently ignoring traffic lights and use of mobile phones when driving are against rules. Driving under the influence of alcohol is a serious offense, which may lead to imprisonment and/or deportation. In case of an accident, you should stay with the vehicle, and not attempt to move it. You can call the police, as it is an offence to leave the scene of an accident before the police arrive.

Photography

Taking pictures of government and public buildings, economic infrastructure and military installations, particularly those related to oil industry, is against law and can lead to arrest, investigation and prosecution.

If photographing public scenes or persons, visitors should seek permission beforehand, so as to not cause offense, else, it could lead to an official complaint to the authorities.

Alcohol / Drugs / Sex

Importing narcotics, pork products, alcohol and obscene material can lead to imprisonment. You are not allowed to import alcohol into Kuwait, although the penalties for trafficking can be severe, including death sentence. Possession and abuse of drugs can lead to imprisonment of five to ten years and a heavy fine. Bail is usually not granted for drug offences and penalty for drug trafficking can also attract death sentence.

Drunken behaviour in public or driving under influence of alcohol is a punishable offence and can lead to imprisonment and/or deportation and withdrawal of driving license.

Co-habiting of unmarried partners in Kuwait is illegal. If you wish to live with your partner in the same house, you need to be married. Pornographic materials are considered illegal in Kuwait, and can get you into trouble, if found in your luggage on arrival. Homosexual behaviour is illegal and so is any public display of affection between men and women.

There is a wide variety of cloth and dress material available. Readymade clothing in Kuwait can range from cheap quality to expensive designer couture. The various styles reflect the multinational culture of Kuwaiti population. Tailors and dressmakers are widely available. Laundry and dry-cleaning services are in plenty. Although Kuwaitis are broad-minded, Islamic traditions dictate clothing decorum. Beachwear worn by either sex, is not permissible in Suqs or in the street, and is strictly limited to the beach or home. Although the black aba (cloak) is not a must, the fashionable clothes worn by Kuwaiti ladies do not reveal shoulders and upper arms, and usually stretch down to mid-calf at least. In the work place, formality of dress varies among different companies and occupations in Kuwait, but, styles are modest.

Food & drink

Mains water is normally chlorinated, and although relatively safe, may cause mild abdominal upsets. Bottled water is available and it is better to use bottled water for the first few weeks of the stay.

Milk is pasteurised and dairy products are safe for consumption. Local meat, seafood, poultry, fruit and vegetables are considered safe to eat. Most food is imported and subjected to stringent testing by Ministry of Public Health. Shops are inspected regularly by the Ministry. As long as normal domestic precautions are taken, the food in Kuwait is safe to eat.

Currency in Kuwait is Dinar, abbreviated as KD. Kuwaiti Dinar (KD) = 1000 fils. Notes are in denominations of KD20, 10 5 and 1, and 500 and 250 fils. Coins are denominations of 100, 50, 20, 10, 5 and 1 fils. Kuwait Dinar is stable, and is worth about $3.30.

As for credit and debit cards, American Express, Master Card, Diners Club and Visa are accepted. For details of merchant acceptability and other services, check with your credit or debit card company. Travellers cheques are widely accepted. To avoid additional exchange rate charges, travellers are advised to take travellers cheques in US Dollars or Pounds Sterling.

The import and export of local and foreign currency is allowed.

Banks are open Sunday to Thursday 0800hrs to 1200hrs. ATMs and Banks are everywhere and all major credit cards are accepted.

Other General Information

Kuwait shares borders with Saudi Arabia. The Persian Gulf lies to the southeast where Kuwait has sovereignty over nine small islands (largest being Bubiyan and Failaka being most populous). The landscape is mainly desert plateau with a lower, more fertile coastal belt. Kuwait is located in the northwest corner of Arabian Gulf with the Republic of Iraq, and to the south and southwest it shares border with Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Kuwait’s territory includes nine islands located off-coast of Kuwait – Failaka, Bubiyan, Miskan, Auhha, Warba, Umm Al-Maradim, Umm Al-Naml, Kubbar and Qaruth.

Kuwait follows traditional Arab monarchy. It gained complete independence from the UK in 1961. The Kuwaiti government is headed by HH the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-JAber Al-Sabah.

Electricity

240 volts AC, 50Hz, single phase. UK-type flat three-pin plugs are used.

Communications

For telephones full IDD is available. Country code: 965. Outgoing international code: 00. For mobile telephones GSM 900 and 1800 networks are available.

Major network operators in Kuwait are Zain (formerly MTC), Ooredoo (formerly Watanya) and STC (formerly Viva). These operators are all offering LTE services and exploring 5G opportunities. There is a high ownership of smartphones in Kuwait. Improvements to fibre-broadband infrastructure are constantly underway.

Most hotels have fax facilities. Internet cafes are available throughout Kuwait, and offer public access to email and internet services. ISPs include Gulfnet International and QualityNet.

The general post office hours are 0700-1400 (Sat-Wed) and 0700-1200 (Thurs).

'Arab Times' and 'Kuwait Times' are popular English language newspapers, while BBC World Service and Voice of America are received on radio, although frequencies change from time to time.

Shopping Hours

Shopping malls are available in plenty in Kuwait, some of the popular ones being The Avenues Mall , The Marina Mall , 360 Mall , Souk Sharq etc.

Other popular centres include Al-Fanar Shopping Centre, Leila Gallery, boutiques and other small general stores.

The shopping hours in these malls/shopping centres are from 10am to 10pm

Office Work Hours

The work week in Kuwait is Sunday to Thursday for majority of businesses, government offices and commercial banks. Kuwait observes a Friday and Saturday weekend.

Government Offices

April to October - 7:00am to 2:00pm November to March - 7:30am to 2:30pm Ramadan - 10am to 2.30am

Private Companies

Office work hours: 8.30am or 9.00am to 5.30pm or 6.00pm Ramadan – 9.30am to 2.00pm

Arabic is the official language, but, English is widely understood, particularly in the commerce and industry.

95 percent are Muslim (mostly of the Sunni sect), with Christian and Hindu minorities.

10 to 15 percent tipping is okey at a restaurant. However, tipping a taxi driver is not customary in Kuwait.

General rules to be followed

Ensure that you carry your own passport or Kuwait civil identification card, if you have one, at all times.

Bouncing of cheques is illegal and the law does not grant bail to offenders. Post-dated cheques can be banked immediately.

Humiliating or insulting a person, including a police offer or public official, is a crime in Kuwait. Such behaviour from your end will be subjected to police investigation and possible prosecution and imprisonment.

Kuwait, being a Muslim country, you need to respect local customs, traditions, laws and religion at all times and be aware of your actions to ensure that you do not offend other cultures, religious beliefs and religious areas, particularly if you happen to visit during the holy month of Ramadan.

Proselytizing is prohibited for all religions except Islam.

General modesty of behaviour and dressing is expected in public. Women wearing shorts or tight-fitting clothes, particularly in downtown areas, may attract unwelcome attention.

Robin Vinod

Writer/blogger who writes on topics such as travel, real estate, employment and everyday life on GCC countries.

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Getty Images/Lonely Planet Images

Cradled between Saudi Arabia and Iraq in one of the most ancient and contested corners of the world, Kuwait has a certain cachet. It may be as oil-rich as other Gulf countries, and its architectural landscape as experimental and audacious, but it hasn't embraced glitz and glamour in the same way: perhaps it's the years lost to the Iraqi invasion and its aftermath, or maybe it's a conscious decision not to give in to commercialism.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Tareq Rajab Museum

Kuwait City

Housed in the basement of a large villa, this exquisite ethnographic museum should not be missed. There are inlaid musical instruments suspended in glass…

Souq Mubarakiya

Once the centre of trade before the nation found oil, Kuwait City's old souq has retained its sprawling, bustling glory. The historical centre of the…

Grand Mosque

The largest of the city’s 800 mosques, opened in 1986, completely survived the Iraqi invasion. It cost KD14 million (US$46 million) to build, with…

Scientific Center

One of the largest aquariums in the Middle East is housed in this sail-shaped building. The giant spider crabs (3.8m leg to leg), fluorescent jellyfish…

Mirror House

For a brilliantly bizarre art-in-action experience, visit this residential house covered with mirror mosaics. It's the creation of gloriously eccentric…

Dar Al Athar Al Islamiyya

This exceptional cultural centre has stunning galleries that contain some of the highlights of the world-class Al Sabah Collection, part of which was in…

Kuwait Towers

The Kuwait Towers, with their distinctive blue-green ‘sequins’, are the instantly recognisable symbols of the nation. Designed by a Swedish architectural…

Al Qurain Martyrs’ Museum

In the residential suburb of Qurain, this excellent small museum is a sobering memorial to a cell of young Kuwaitis who tried to resist Iraqi arrest in…

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Kuwait Travel Restrictions

Traveler's COVID-19 vaccination status

Traveling from the United States to Kuwait

Open for vaccinated visitors

COVID-19 testing

Not required

Not required for vaccinated visitors

Restaurants

Not required in public spaces, enclosed environments and public transportation.

Kuwait entry details and exceptions

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Can I travel to Kuwait from the United States?

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Kuwait.

Can I travel to Kuwait if I am vaccinated?

Fully vaccinated visitors from the United States can enter Kuwait without restrictions.

Can I travel to Kuwait without being vaccinated?

Unvaccinated visitors from the United States can enter Kuwait without restrictions.

Do I need a COVID test to enter Kuwait?

Visitors from the United States are not required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test or antigen result upon entering Kuwait.

Can I travel to Kuwait without quarantine?

Travelers from the United States are not required to quarantine.

Do I need to wear a mask in Kuwait?

Mask usage in Kuwait is not required in public spaces, enclosed environments and public transportation.

Are the restaurants and bars open in Kuwait?

Restaurants in Kuwait are open. Bars in Kuwait are .

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Kuwait Travel Guide – Everything You Need to Know

Kuwait, a small yet culturally rich country nestled in the heart of the Arabian Gulf, offers a unique blend of modernity and tradition. From towering skyscrapers to historic souks and pristine beaches, Kuwait’s tourism scene is steadily growing. Travelers can explore its rich history, vibrant arts, and savor the flavors of its cuisine, making it an intriguing destination.

What’s the Best Time to Visit? 📅

The best time to visit Kuwait as a tourist is during the winter months, which typically run from November to March. During this period, the weather is milder and more comfortable, with daytime temperatures averaging between 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). The cooler weather makes it ideal for exploring outdoor attractions, such as historic sites, markets, and the beautiful coastline.

Summer in Kuwait, from June to August, is scorching with temperatures soaring well above 40°C (104°F) and high humidity. It’s not recommended for outdoor activities during this time. Spring and autumn, from April to May and September to October, can also be pleasant for travel, but keep in mind that temperatures can still be quite warm during the day.

To avoid extreme heat and make the most of your visit, plan your trip to Kuwait during the winter months for a more comfortable and enjoyable experience.

What’s the Best Way to Get Around? 🚌

Getting around Kuwait as a tourist is relatively straightforward, and there are several transportation options available:

• Taxis: Taxis are a convenient and popular mode of transportation in Kuwait. They are widely available, and the fare is typically reasonable. Be sure to use officially marked taxis with meters, or you can negotiate fares in advance.
• Rental Cars: Renting a car is a common choice for tourists who prefer more independence in exploring Kuwait. The road infrastructure is excellent, and driving is on the right side of the road. International driver’s licenses are generally accepted.
• Public Buses: Kuwait has an extensive public bus system that connects various parts of the country. The Kuwait Public Transport Company operates these buses. While buses are a budget-friendly option, the schedules and routes can be challenging to navigate for tourists.
• Kuwait Metro (Under Development): The Kuwait Metro is currently under development and is expected to become a significant mode of transportation when completed. Keep an eye on updates regarding its progress and launch.
• Ride-Sharing Apps: Ride-sharing services like Uber and local app-based services are becoming increasingly popular in Kuwait and provide a convenient way to get around the city.
• Walking: In some areas, such as Souk Al-Mubarakiya in Kuwait City, walking is a great way to explore the local markets and cultural attractions. Just be mindful of the weather, especially during the hot summer months.
• Water Taxis: Kuwait’s coastline offers the opportunity to use water taxis for specific routes and attractions, such as from Kuwait City to Failaka Island.
• Cycling: Some urban areas in Kuwait are becoming more cyclist-friendly with dedicated lanes and bike-sharing services. Cycling can be a pleasant way to explore specific neighborhoods.

When planning your transportation in Kuwait, consider the weather, the distance to your destinations, and your personal preferences. Taxis and rental cars are often the most convenient options, especially for travelers who want flexibility in their itinerary.

What’s the Official Language?

The official language of Kuwait is Arabic. While Arabic is the primary language spoken by the majority of the population, English is also widely understood and used in business, tourism, and as a second language. Here are some basic Arabic phrases that can be helpful for tourists in Kuwait:

• Hello – مرحبًا (Marhaban)
• Good morning – صباح الخير (Sabah al-khair)
• Good evening – مساء الخير (Masa’ al-khair)
• Thank you – شكرًا (Shukran)
• Please – من فضلك (Min fadlik)
• Yes – نعم (Naam)
• No – لا (La)
• Excuse me / I’m sorry – آسف (Asif)
• How much does this cost? – بكم هذا؟ (Bikam hatha?)
• Where is…? – أين…؟ (Ayna…?)
• Restroom / Toilet – دورة المياه (Dawrat al-miyah)
• Water – ماء (Ma’a)
• Food – طعام (Ta’am)
• I don’t understand – لا أفهم (La afham)
• Help – مساعدة (Musa’adah)

While many people in Kuwait’s urban areas, especially those in the service industry, speak English, making an effort to use basic Arabic phrases is appreciated and can enhance your travel experience. It’s also a great way to connect with locals and immerse yourself in the culture.

Where to Stay? 🏨

Kuwait offers a range of accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets. Here are some areas and types of places to consider when deciding where to stay as a tourist in Kuwait:

• Kuwait City: As the capital and largest city, Kuwait City has a variety of hotels, from luxury to mid-range and budget options. This is a convenient location for exploring many of the city’s attractions.
• Salmiya: This area along the Gulf Road is a popular choice for tourists. It offers a mix of hotels, serviced apartments, and restaurants, along with easy access to the beach and the lively Salmiya Promenade.
• Hawally: Just a short drive from Kuwait City, Hawally has a range of accommodation options and is known for its shopping districts and restaurants.
• Fahaheel: Located in the southern part of Kuwait, Fahaheel offers a more relaxed atmosphere. It’s a good choice for those looking for a beachfront experience.
• Jabriya: This residential area has a growing number of boutique hotels and furnished apartments. It’s a quieter option while still providing easy access to Kuwait City.
• Airport Hotels: If you have a short layover or need to be close to the airport, consider the hotels near Kuwait International Airport for convenience.
• Luxury Resorts: If you’re seeking a luxurious beachfront experience, consider the high-end resorts along the coast, like the Hilton Kuwait Resort or The Regency Kuwait.
• Serviced Apartments: Kuwait has a variety of serviced apartments that offer more space and the convenience of a kitchen. This is an excellent option for extended stays.
• Budget Accommodation: Kuwait has a limited number of budget hotels and hostels. While options are limited, you can find some affordable places in various areas of the city.

When choosing your accommodation, consider factors like location, budget, and the kind of experience you want during your stay. It’s advisable to book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to secure the best deals and availability.

What to Eat? 🍽️

Kuwait offers a diverse and delicious range of dishes that reflect the region’s rich culinary heritage. As a tourist, here are some must-try foods in Kuwait:

• Machboos: This is Kuwait’s national dish, a flavorful and aromatic rice dish usually made with basmati rice, saffron, and a choice of meat (often chicken, lamb, or fish). It’s seasoned with a unique blend of spices and served with a side of yogurt.
• Ghuzi: A festive and aromatic dish made with slow-cooked lamb or chicken served with fragrant rice, roasted nuts, and a flavorful tomato sauce.
• Margoog: A traditional Kuwaiti stew made with vegetables, meat (usually chicken or lamb), and a special blend of spices. It’s often served with flatbread.
• Harees: A hearty porridge-like dish made from wheat and chicken, slow-cooked to perfection and seasoned with spices.
• Kebabs: Kuwait offers a variety of kebabs, including the popular shawarma, kebab hala, and tikka. These grilled meat dishes are typically served with flatbread and an array of flavorful sauces.
• Mutabbaq: A savory pastry filled with a mixture of minced meat, onions, and spices. It’s a popular street food in Kuwait.
• Machboos Deyay: A version of machboos made with chicken, saffron, and a blend of spices, often served with a side of pickles and yogurt.
• Fried Fish: Kuwait’s coastal location ensures an abundance of fresh seafood. Try fried or grilled fish, often served with rice and tahini sauce.
• Fatteh: A unique dish made from layers of toasted bread, yogurt, and a flavorful sauce, often garnished with roasted nuts and fresh herbs.
• Dates and Arabic Coffee: Kuwait is known for its high-quality dates. Pair them with Arabic coffee (gahwa) for a traditional treat. Arabic coffee is a cardamom-infused, lightly sweetened coffee served in small cups.
• Lugaimat: Sweet, deep-fried dumplings coated in date syrup or honey, a popular dessert in Kuwait.
• Kuwaiti Tea: Enjoy a cup of traditional Kuwaiti tea, often flavored with cardamom, saffron, or rosewater.

Exploring the local cuisine is an integral part of the Kuwaiti experience. You can find these dishes in restaurants, street stalls, and local markets throughout Kuwait. Don’t miss the opportunity to savor the flavors of this diverse and delicious cuisine during your visit.

What to See? 🔍

Kuwait offers a mix of modern and cultural attractions for tourists. Here are some must-see places when visiting Kuwait:

• Kuwait Towers: Iconic and symbolizing Kuwait’s modernization, the Kuwait Towers offer panoramic views of the city from the Observation Deck. The towers are beautifully lit at night.
• Grand Mosque: The Grand Mosque is one of the largest mosques in Kuwait, known for its stunning architecture and intricate details. It’s open to non-Muslim visitors outside prayer times.
• Kuwait National Museum: Explore Kuwait’s history, culture, and art at this museum. It includes exhibits on archaeology, traditional crafts, and contemporary art.
• Failaka Island: Take a ferry to this island to visit archaeological sites, ancient Greek ruins, and enjoy the serene beaches. It’s a step back in time to explore the island’s rich history.
• Al-Mubarakiya Souq: This traditional market is the perfect place to experience Kuwaiti culture. You can shop for handicrafts, spices, clothing, and enjoy local street food.
• Sadu House: Learn about traditional Bedouin culture and crafts at the Sadu House. It’s a great place to buy handmade Bedouin weavings and textiles.
• Scientific Center: Ideal for families, the Scientific Center features an impressive aquarium, an IMAX theater, and interactive exhibits on marine life.
• Mirror House: An eccentric and artistic house filled with mirrors and mosaics. It’s a unique and visually stunning experience.
• Salmiya Promenade: A beautiful seaside area where you can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Corniche, watch the sunset, and visit cafes and restaurants.
• Green Island: An artificial island with beautiful greenery and water features, perfect for picnics and relaxation.
• House of Mirrors: Another artistic gem, this house is covered in millions of tiny mirrors and mosaics, making it a visually striking attraction.
• Al Kout Mall: A modern shopping mall with a mix of international and local brands, as well as dining and entertainment options.

Kuwait’s attractions offer a blend of the contemporary and the traditional, providing travelers with a glimpse into the country’s rich history and its vibrant present. Be sure to explore these sites to get a well-rounded experience of Kuwait.

What to Do? 📸

Kuwait offers a variety of experiences for tourists, from exploring its modern cityscape to diving into its rich cultural heritage. Here are some must-do things for tourists in Kuwait:

• Visit Kuwait Towers: Start your journey by visiting the iconic Kuwait Towers, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the city and the Arabian Gulf.
• Explore the Souks: Wander through the bustling souks, like Souk Al-Mubarakiya, to experience Kuwaiti culture, shop for local handicrafts, and savor traditional cuisine.
• Enjoy the Beaches: Kuwait has beautiful sandy beaches along its coastline. Spend a day at the beach, swim, sunbathe, or indulge in water sports.
• Experience the Cuisine: Kuwaiti cuisine is a treat for the taste buds. Try local dishes like machboos, ghuzi, and falafel at traditional restaurants and street vendors.
• Visit the Grand Mosque: Admire the stunning architecture of the Grand Mosque, and explore its intricate design.
• Attend Cultural Events: Check the local event calendar for cultural events, exhibitions, and festivals showcasing Kuwaiti and Middle Eastern culture.
• Go Island Hopping: Take a ferry to the nearby islands like Failaka to explore ancient ruins and enjoy the serene beaches.
• Learn About History: Visit the Kuwait National Museum to gain insights into Kuwait’s history, from archaeology to contemporary art.
• Shop for Gold: Kuwait is known for its gold markets. Explore the gold souks and discover exquisite jewelry pieces.
• Experience the Nightlife: Kuwait has a vibrant nightlife scene, with plenty of cafes, restaurants, and entertainment venues.
• Learn About Bedouin Culture: Visit the Sadu House to learn about traditional Bedouin culture and see exquisite woven textiles.
• Explore the Art Scene: Discover Kuwait’s contemporary art scene at galleries like CAP and Dar al-Athar al-Islamiyyah.
• Attend a Majlis: If you have the opportunity, attend a traditional Kuwaiti majlis (gathering), where you can engage with locals and learn about their customs.
• Enjoy Kuwaiti Coffee: Sip Kuwaiti coffee, known for its unique flavors, at local cafes.
• Stroll Along the Corniche: Take a leisurely walk along the Salmiya Promenade, where you can enjoy the scenic views and relax by the waterfront.

Kuwait offers a blend of history, culture, and modernity, making it a unique destination for travelers. These activities will allow you to immerse yourself in the local culture and create memorable experiences during your visit.

Culture and Safety 🦺

When traveling to Kuwait as a tourist, it’s essential to be aware of the local culture and ensure your safety. Here are some cultural and safety tips to keep in mind:

• Respect Local Customs: Kuwait is a conservative country with strong Islamic traditions. Dress modestly, particularly in public places and religious sites. Women should cover their shoulders, and both men and women should avoid wearing revealing clothing.
• Ramadan: During the holy month of Ramadan, Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset. It’s important to show respect by not eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours.
• Greetings: It’s customary to offer a friendly greeting and a handshake when meeting someone. Address people with titles such as Mr. (Sayed) and Mrs. (Sayeda), followed by their first name.
• Public Behavior: Public displays of affection should be limited to a minimum, as they are considered inappropriate in public.
• Photography: Always ask for permission before taking photos, especially of people. Be respectful of local customs, and avoid taking photos of government or military buildings.
• Friday Prayer: On Fridays, businesses often close during the midday prayer time. Plan your activities accordingly.
• General Safety: Kuwait is generally a safe destination for tourists. It has a low crime rate, and public spaces are generally secure. However, it’s essential to take standard precautions like safeguarding your belongings and being aware of your surroundings.
• Respect Local Laws: Kuwait has strict laws, and violations can lead to serious consequences. Familiarize yourself with local laws and customs to ensure you stay within the legal boundaries.
• Political Discussions: Avoid engaging in political discussions, as Kuwait has strict laws governing this topic, and it’s best to steer clear of sensitive subjects.
• Healthcare: Ensure you have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Healthcare facilities in Kuwait are generally of high quality, but it’s important to be prepared.
• Travel Documentation: Ensure your passport, visa (if required), and other travel documents are in order before your trip.
• Currency: The currency used in Kuwait is the Kuwaiti Dinar (KWD). Be cautious when handling money and exchanging currency.
• Road Safety: Kuwait has a high standard of road infrastructure, but traffic can be aggressive. Follow local traffic rules and be vigilant when driving.
• Emergency Contacts: Familiarize yourself with emergency contact numbers, including the local police (112), medical services (112), and the fire department (112).

Kuwait offers a unique cultural experience, but it’s important to respect local customs and adhere to local laws to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit. Staying informed and being culturally sensitive will enhance your overall travel experience.

For tourists visiting Kuwait, expect a warm welcome and a chance to explore a nation with a proud heritage and a vision for the future. From the stunning Kuwait Towers to the peaceful Salmiya Promenade and the bustling Souk Al-Mubarakiya, Kuwait has much to offer. With its blend of history, culture, and modernity, Kuwait promises an unforgettable and enriching travel experience.

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Kuwait travel guide: everything you need to know as the country extends travel restrictions

Travellers from 15 countries must provide pcr test results before arriving in kuwait.

Here's what to know if you're travelling to Kuwait. Getty 

Kuwait has extended travel restrictions in place across the country that prohibit non-citizens from flying into Kuwait International Airport.

The country's Civil Aviation Authority has banned non-Kuwaiti citizens from flying to Kuwait until further notice.

The decision was based on the instruction of health authorities and part of coronavirus restriction measures, the authority said on Twitter.

الطيران المدني : بناء على تعليمات السلطات الصحية تقرر تمديد العمل بقرار منع دخول الركاب غير الكويتيين لدولة الكويت حتى اشعار آخر مع استمرار دخول الركاب الكويتيين وخضوعهم للحجر المؤسسي في أحد الفنادق المحلية المعتمدة لمدة 7 أيام واستكمال مدة الحجر 7 أيام الأخرى في الحجر المنزلي . pic.twitter.com/qlF0efdLCB — الطيران المدني (@Kuwait_DGCA) February 20, 2021

Kuwait Airport had been set to reopen to more travellers on February 21, when travel restrictions were due to ease.

Commercial passenger flights were gearing up to once again be allowed to accept non-Kuwaiti citizens.

Airlines had been advised they would have to bear the cost of Covid-19 testing for passengers, according to a circular from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation.

Travel to Kuwait has been restricted since February 7 when authorities closed borders to all travellers except Kuwaiti nationals and their first-degree relatives, domestic workers and medical professionals.

With the country extending restrictions and changing quarantine rules, here’s a guide to what you need to know if you’re planning to fly to Kuwait.

Who can fly to Kuwait?

Tourists and non-Kuwaiti citizens cannot fly to Kuwait.

Until further notice, only Kuwaiti citizens, their first-degree relatives, domestic workers, diplomats and medical professionals can fly to the country.

Who cannot fly to Kuwait?

Non-citizens including those with valid residency permits and GCC citizens will need to wait to travel to Kuwait.

When restrictions ease, travellers who have been in or transited through any country on the restricted list cannot enter Kuwait unless they spend 14 days in a non-restricted destination. This does not apply to Kuwaiti citizens..

List of restricted countries

• Afghanistan
• Bosnia and Herzegovina
• Dominican Republic
• North Macedonia
• Philippines
• United Kingdom

Kuwait remains closed to tourists. No visitors have been permitted to travel to the country since March 2020 and visa on arrival facilities are suspended.

What do I need to do before I fly to Kuwait?

Kuwaiti Prime Minister Sheikh Sabah Al Khaled Al Sabah receives a Pfizer-BioTech Covid-19 vaccine injection at a vaccination centre in the capital Kuwait City. AFP

Anyone planning to fly to Kuwait must have a negative PCR test. The PCR test must be conducted no more than 72 hours before acceptance on any flight to Kuwait and the result should be in English.

Visitors from 15 countries must submit their PCR test result before arriving in the country. This can be done via Kuwait's Medical Utility Network Accreditor system. The rule applies immediately to visitors from India, the Philippines, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and Nepal.

Travellers from the UAE, Oman, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Qatar, Egypt, Jordan, France, the UK and the US must follow these new rules from Thursday, March 25.

Passengers must also download the Shlonik contact tracing app and the  Kuwait Mosafer app before travelling to Kuwait. Negative PCR certificates need to be scanned on the Kuwait Mosafer app.

When checking in for any flight to Kuwait, travellers will have to pay 60 Kuwaiti dinars (Dh729) for two subsequent PCR tests, as requested by Kuwaiti authorities.

What rules are in place at the airport?

Passengers arriving in Kuwait will be required to go through thermal screening and then undergo the first of their two prepaid Covid-19 PCR tests.

ارشادات عامة عند التواجد في مطار الكويت الدولي . General instructions when at Kuwait International Airport pic.twitter.com/Oit4dFQKL0 — Kuwait Airways (@KuwaitAirways) February 10, 2021

Kuwait Airli`nes has also reminded travellers of mandatory rules in place at the airport including compulsory face masks, social distancing and hand sanitising every 30 minutes.

Which airlines are flying to Kuwait?

Commercial flights to and from Kuwait are operating at a reduced capacity of 35 passengers per flight. Several airlines continue to fly to and from the country including Kuwait Airlines, Emirates, Flydubai, Etihad and Jazeera Airways.

Until further notice, only Kuwaiti nationals, their relatives and those on the exemption list will be accepted for boarding.

Do I need to quarantine in a hotel?

From Sunday, anyone arriving in Kuwait will have to undergo self-funded compulsory quarantine for seven days in a designated hotel, followed by a further seven days of home isolation. This is bookable in advance, via the Ministry of Health.

This has changed from the previous rule which demanded 14 days of home isolation.

Only diplomats, Kuwaiti patients who travelled overseas for medical treatment, Kuwaiti students studying overseas, medical crews and unaccompanied minors are exempt from hotel quarantine.

How much will quarantine cost?

The Kuwait Hotel Owners Association (KHOA) has announced recommended prices for each hotel category, according to local media.

For three-star hotels, the room rate has been set at KD20 (Dh243) per night for a standard single room and KD30 (Dh364) for a double room with breakfast and airport transfer.

Four-star hotels will cost KD30 (Dh364) per night for a standard single room or KD40 (Dh486) for a double room with breakfast and airport transfer.

Those looking to quarantine in luxury look set to pay KD45 (Dh546) per night for a standard single room and KD55 (Dh668) for a double room with breakfast and airport transfer in a five-star hotel.

The hotel quarantine policy will run until at least Sunday, March 21, when it will be reviewed.

• 2 Other destinations
• 3.1 History
• 3.2 Climate
• 3.3 Terrain
• 3.4 Visitor information
• 4.1 Entry requirements
• 4.2 By plane
• 4.5 By boat
• 5.1 By road
• 5.2 By public transport
• 5.3 By taxi
• 5.4 By rental car
• 9.3 Shopping
• 14.1 Extreme weather
• 14.3 Photography
• 15 Stay healthy
• 17.2 Mobile
• 17.3.1 Mobile Internet
• 17.3.2 Connection points
• 17.3.3 Home Internet
• 17.4 Telephone

Kuwait (Arabic: الكويت) is a monarchy situated at the Persian Gulf, nestled between Iraq and Saudi Arabia .

Historically, Kuwait was a strategic trade port between Mesopotamia, India, and Persia. Like many of its neighbours, Kuwait is endowed with oil and gas wealth.

Cities [ edit ]

There are 6 governorates in Kuwait, each of which has several areas in it. Most of Jahra, Ahmadi and Mubarak al-Kabeer are residential with no tourists attractions.

• 29.375 47.98 1 Kuwait City – the capital
• 29.333333 48.033333 4 Hawalli – the closest southern suburb, about 10 min from Kuwait City by car

Other destinations [ edit ]

Understand [ edit ].

Kuwait has a population of 3,806,616 (Jun 2012), including about 2 million non-Kuwaitis, with ethnic groups consist of 45% Kuwaiti, 35% other Arabs, among whom Egyptians predominate, 9% South Asian, 4% Iranian, and 7% others. Kuwait ranks among the most liberal Gulf nations in terms of religion. While Islam is the official religion with fully 85% of the population practicing the Muslim faith (divided into 70% Sunni and 30% Shia), others including Christians, Hindus and Zoroastrians make up 15% of the population.

The country is divided to governorates, which are divided into areas, which are divided into blocks. Knowing the area and block is necessary, as the street numbers may be repeated across different blocks of the same areas. Area names are not repeated across the country, so it would be unusual if you mention the governorate after the area. See the Get around section.

Electrical current is 220 Volts a/c, plugs are either standard British, Europlugs (2 prong diamond-shaped) or German Schuko variety—adapters are readily available.

History [ edit ]

The Kuwaitis trace their roots to the Al-Anisa and Al-Utub tribes from Nejd province, which is now in Saudi Arabia. They moved to Qatar and then to Al-Qurain, now in Kuwait, by around 1710. By 1752, the long term residents of Al-Qurain decided that they needed a central authority to tamp down tribal warfare in the area. The Al-Sabah tribe was chosen to rule, and the first sheikh, Sabah ibn Jaber, reigned as Sabah I from 1752 to 1756. The Sabahs mediated religious and tribal disputes with diplomacy. They also played the Ottomans, Egyptians and European powers against each other while maintaining their autonomy. In 1899, Mubarak I signed an agreement making Kuwait a British Protectorate, with the sheikhs maintaining local control while putting their foreign policy in the hands of the British, in exchange for military protection from other powers. The British had already had a presence in Kuwait for some time: in the 1770s, Abdullah I already had a contract with the British to deliver mail for them up to Aleppo , Syria .

In the 1920s and the 1930s, Kuwait's main product was pearls. However, income from the precious stones took a hit shortly thereafter, when the Japanese flooded the market with cultured pearls. In 1938, oil was first struck at the Burgan oil field in Kuwait, and by 1946, oil exports began. In 1961, Kuwait nullified the treaty of 1899, and became an independent nation.

In the early 1990s, Kuwait was annexed and invaded by Iraq. In the months to follow, a US-led coalition completely liberated Kuwait in four days and drove out the Iraqi forces.

Kuwait is an emirate and a developed country. The Kuwaiti dinar, the country's currency, is the strongest currency in the world. Although it has one of the world's largest oil reserves, it is often considered to be the most oil-dependent country in the Middle East .

Climate [ edit ]

Dry desert; intensely hot summers; short, cool winters. Natural hazards  : sudden cloudbursts are common from October to April; they occasionally bring heavy rain which can, in some rare cases, damage roads and houses; sandstorms and dust storms occur throughout the year, but are most common between March and August. Common temperatures range from 5°C in Dec/Jan to over 50°C from Jun to Aug.

It would be prudent for travellers to pack clothes accordingly. Sunglasses for heat or during sandstorms won't be amiss.

Terrain [ edit ]

Flat to slightly undulating desert plain. Highest point: 306 meters above sea level, in the al Jahrah desert.

Visitor information [ edit ]

• Kuwait Tourism website

Get in [ edit ]

Entry requirements [ edit ].

Citizens of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries ( Bahrain , Oman , Qatar , Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates ) may enter Kuwait without a visa and stay indefinitely.

The nationals of 54 countries are eligible of visas on arrival at Kuwait's airport and land borders. The on-arrival visa is valid for a single entry of up to 3 months and costs KD 3, plus KD 3 for a "stamping" fee (visa and stamping fee not required for nationals of Italy , Norway , Sweden , Turkey , United Kingdom and United States of America ). Those 54 nations are: Andorra , Australia , Austria , Belgium , Bhutan , Brunei , Bulgaria , Cambodia , Canada , Croatia , Cyprus , Czechia , Denmark , Estonia , Eswatini , Finland , France , Georgia , Germany , Greece , Hong Kong , Hungary , Iceland , Ireland , Italy , Japan , Laos , Latvia , Liechtenstein , Lithuania , Luxembourg , Malaysia , Monaco , Netherlands , New Zealand , Norway , Poland , Portugal , Romania , San Marino , Serbia , Singapore , Slovakia , Slovenia , South Korea , Spain , Sweden , Switzerland , Turkey , United Kingdom , United States of America , Vatican City and Vietnam .

All other nationals need advance visas, which require an invitation from a sponsor in Kuwait. Kuwait Airways offices and major hotels can provide invitations, but the process can take up to a week and may require a fee. The Embassy of Kuwait in Japan has some information.

Import restrictions: Alcohol and pork are not legal and may not be imported into the country. If you bring either in, it will be confiscated at the airport and you may be subjected to fines for attempting to import these banned goods. Your bags will be X-rayed and/or hand-searched on arrival.

By plane [ edit ]

The national airline, Kuwait Airways , serves Frankfurt , Geneva , Rome , Kuala Lumpur , London , New York City , Paris and several other European, Asian, African and Middle Eastern destinations, but is best avoided. It is a flag carrier with a poor reputation, its planes are old (although some long haul routes have gotten new planes), delays are frequent, poor and rude cabin attendants, and weak customer service. You will have to use Kuwait Airways if you are travelling directly from New York's JFK Airport , however. Almost all its flights are served at Terminal 4. Flights to and from JFK still go to the old terminal, Terminal 1, due to the increased security requirements for US flights.

Semi-low-cost carrier Jazeera Airways provides a popular alternative for regional flights. It is the only user of Terminal 5.

International airlines serving Kuwait include British Airways from London , Lufthansa from Frankfurt , KLM from Amsterdam , Singapore Airlines from Singapore , and Turkish Airlines from Istanbul , plus connections through other large Gulf hubs ( Dubai , Doha , Abu Dhabi , etc.) are accessible through Emirates Airlines, Qatar Airways, Etihad Airlines, and Gulf Air. Airlines that operate seasonal flights to Kuwait include Malaysia Airlines, Ukraine International Airlines, Bulgaria Air and Czech Airlines. Code shares with other members of international airline alliances often offer cheaper air fares than the carrier servicing the route to and from Kuwait. All of these other airlines use Terminal 1 as well, except for Aegean, which uses Terminal 3, a small building meant for private planes at first.

If you need a visa on arrival at the airport, do not head down to Arrivals; instead, look for the "Visa Issuing" desks next to gate 2, opposite the Dasman Lounge. Join the mob (no queuing is possible) to have your passport copied and pick up a queue ticket, fill out a visa entry form, and wait for your number to be called. (Be careful, you will only have 2 or 3 seconds to respond before you are skipped.) Payment for the visa stamp is accepted only in Kuwaiti dinars, have the exact change (KD 3) ready or pay by credit card, there are a number of bureaux de change in the arrivals area, where the best rates appear to be for U.S. dollars, Australian dollars and euros. You'll also get an A4-sized sheet entirely in Arabic, which you must keep -- this is your visa! You can now proceed straight through immigration without queuing, just show your visa form at any desk and they'll let you through. Generally, you can pass through the open gate for flight crew and show your visa to the guard just past passport control.

Airport taxis can be found outside arrivals, with the fare to most points in the city being no more than KD 5. If you want to go to a central location busses are a viable and cheap option (less than KD 1), use Google for planning. Most hotels can arrange a transfer for the same price if not free of charge, which may be safer, especially for single females, and a more comfortable option. When in operation, you can also use the "limousine" service which is located to the right of the outside exit for KD 6-10 depending on destination. These generally have a reputation as having much safer drivers than the airport taxis (driven by Kuwaiti nationals who usually do not observe posted speed limits and will even drive on the verge/shoulder at 140 km/h). It is illegal for a regular taxi to pick up arrivals passengers at the airport so most will refuse to do so because of the fear of hefty fines and possible imprisonment or deportation. Regular taxis are a worse choice in most cases anyway, being driven by chronically underpaid expats from Bangladesh, India, Pakistan and usually poorly maintained. Drivers of regular cabs are often totally unaware of how to get anywhere, often speak little or no English and frequently have poor or no concept of personal hygiene.

By car [ edit ]

Kuwait shares its borders with only 2 nations: Iraq and Saudi Arabia. The political situation in Iraq is volatile, so it is advisable not to use that route. There are long-distance bus services to Dammam and other points in Saudi Arabia, but you will of course need to have a valid Saudi visa.

By bus [ edit ]

There are 3 bus lines in Kuwait: KPTC, City Bus, and KGL. KPTC, the Kuwait Public Transportation Company, operates only within Kuwait and is used mainly by the poorer expats in menial jobs. Buses are frequently poorly maintained, sometimes non-air-conditioned (and thus hazardous in summer). Apart of that they are a reliable and very cheap option (under 1 KD into the city center), especially compared to taxis. Just use Google to find the appropriate lines.

KGL is the only one of the three that provides routes to other GCC countries, but visas will probably be an issue for non-GCC citizens.

By boat [ edit ]

Scheduled ferries to and from Iran are handled by Kuwait-Iran Shipping Company, phone +965 2410498, fax +965 2429508. The ferries go three times a week from Ash Shuwayk in Kuwait to Bushehr in Iran. One-way tickets from KD 37.

Speedboats also go between Ash Shuwayk and Manama in Bahrain. A ticket is KD 45.

Ports and harbors:

• Ash Shu'aybah
• Ash Shuwaykh
• Kuwait City
• Mina' 'Abd Allah
• Mina' al Ahmadi
• Mina' Su'ud

Get around [ edit ]

With an area of 17,820 square kilometres (6,880 sq mi), Kuwait is among the smallest countries in the world and you can easily cover the country in less than 2-3 days. A journey from the capital city to Umm Qasr in Iraq will take you roughly 60-80 minutes depending on traffic conditions.

By road [ edit ]

Kuwait has a good road system. All signs are in English and Arabic. The major north-south roads are effectively freeways numbered Expressway 30, 40, etc. These are traversed by increasingly widely spaced ring roads named First, Second, etc., making navigation fairly easy.

Using Google Maps for navigation is a good option, as it offers traffic and roads, and all major destinations. However, if you need to find a location using its address (which you probably won't need to). Google Maps will even give you wrong address for your current location and places. This is due to how Kuwait addresses work mixed with lack of proper support of Kuwait subdivisions in Google Maps platform. Areas are labelled as neighbourhoods and blocks as sub-neighbourhoods . For example, if you are in Street 1, block 1, Jabriya, your address will appear as Street 1, Kuwait City (since it is the only city in Kuwait, and neighbourhoods aren't supposed to be included in addresses). So if you intend to go/find a place using its address, make sure you install the free and easy-to-use official Kuwait Finder GIS system on your phone from its apps market.

By public transport [ edit ]

Kuwait's public transport is adequate with three companies (KPTC, City Bus and KGL) running dozens of routes in every major city. Waiting times for buses range from one minute for most frequent routes to 1 hour minutes for less used routes. All buses are equipped with air-conditioners and usually one can find a seat without much trouble. Although, during peak hours (7-9AM, 2-4PM, 8-9PM) most routes are packed and public transport should be avoided for those seeking comfortable travelling. Although areas with expatriates majority are covered with many routes, Kuwaiti residence areas are scarcely connected with public transport buses and are reachable mostly by taxis only.

Bus 500 runs to Abdaly, a village in the north on the border with Iraq. It departs every 3 hours (6AM, 9AM, etc.) from KPTC bust station in Hassawi.

By taxi [ edit ]

These are recognisable by orange licence plates and may be hired by the day, in which case fares should be agreed beforehand. Although most taxis have meters these are rarely used as in practice, meters are always "broken", covered, missing or just ignored, and you'll need to agree on fares in advance. Beware that cabbies will often ask for ridiculous prices. Share-taxis are also available. Hailing taxis from the road is the most practical approach. However some sources have reported it was not advisable, particularly for females, and they recommend that taxis are booked in advance by telephone from a reputable taxi company. The cream-colored taxis are the cheapest, but also likely to be poorly maintained and possibly dangerously so, considering the general speed and size of the rest of the vehicles on Kuwaiti roads.

A standard rate is applicable in most taxis, but those at hotel ranks are more expensive. Naive westerners routinely pay 2 to 5 times more than the standard rates which are typically KD 0.500 for up to a 5 minute ride plus about KD 0.100 per minute thereafter. The only exception being airport departures which are approximately KD 3. Tipping is not expected, however you should negotiate fares before boarding the taxi. It is customary to collect all baggage and exit the taxi before offering payment to avoid conflicts or loss of personal property should a taxi driver demand more than the agreed price after arriving at the destination. This way, the passenger can drop the money in the seat and walk away if necessary.

It is common to share a taxi (which is often an unofficial taxi or a private car) from bus stations to more remote destinations such as Abdaly on Iraq border. Taxi drivers often wait until the car fills up with passengers and this may take an hour. Expect to pay KD 2-3 for the shared taxi with 3-4 other passengers. Do not agree to pay more. If the driver refuses, just wait a couple of minutes for another driver.

By rental car [ edit ]

Self-drive is available. If you produce an International Driving Permit, the rental company will, at the customer's expense, be able to arrange the statutory temporary insurance, which is drawn on the driver's visa. If you arrive at Kuwait International Airport, you will find the car hiring companies located at your left after you exit from the baggage claiming area. You can find international companies such as Avis and Budget among others.

However, driving in Kuwait, especially for those new to driving in the country, can be extremely chaotic and frightening. Turn signals and lane divisions are effectively optional, speeding and aggressive driving is commonplace, and there is little active enforcement of traffic laws. This is especially true for Kuwait city. Driving outside the city, you may have three lanes almost to yourself as there is little traffic. However, the speed limit is 120 km/h beyond which a fine of 20 KD will be imposed upon you. This may be frustrating to drivers seeing the vast expanse of space ahead of them in the highways.

A law has been passed to disallow the use of cell phones while driving (including voice calls and text messaging or SMS.) If driving, ensure you keep out of the left hand "fast" lane unless you are very relaxed about large 4-wheel drive vehicles tailgating you.

If involved in a car accident , do not attempt to move your car until police arrive and have made a report or you will be arrested.

Hiring a car may be a good (the only?) opportunity to experience the desert, the coast and the oilfields.

Prices are comparable to hiring a car in European countries, e.g. KD 10 for a small two door Japanese made car, 4WD and American made sports cars may cost around KD 25. Petrol costs KD 0.1 per litre, gas stations are plenty. However, you need to pay with cash or KNET; foreign credit cards are generally not accepted.

Talk [ edit ]

Arabic is the official language. Although in schools the classical version of Arabic is taught, just like everywhere in the Arab world, Kuwaitis use the Kuwaiti dialect in everyday conversation. English is widely used and spoken. Most of the traffic signs in Kuwait are bilingual. English is taught as a second language in schools in Kuwait beginning at the first grade. Many Kuwaitis speak English fluently as there are lots of private English and American schools and universities where all subjects are taught in English and Arabic is taken as a subject. A lot of Kuwaitis enroll their children in these schools.

Due to a large population of working Indians living here, languages like Hindi, Tamil and Malayalam are also widely spoken.

See [ edit ]

See Kuwait City for listings of attractions in the city. Kuwait is not the ideal vacation spot in the region, but if on a business trip, there are some sites worth seeing:

• 29.430592 48.270764 1 Failaka Island , [email protected] ( take KPTC ferry from Ras Al Salmiya (Ras al Ardh) near scientific center or private speedboat near Marina Mall ), ☏ +965 66111924 . A port with many old dhows, Failaka Island can be reached by regular ferry services. There are also some Bronze Age and Greek archaeological sites well worth viewing, including the island's Greek temple. Failaka Island was named Ikarus by the Greeks who, under Alexander the Great, established an outpost in the island. Failaka was heavily damaged during the Iraqi invasion. Plans are underway to develop the island into a large-scale tourist attraction. KD 3 .  
• Al Jahra city . Traditional-style boums and sambuks (boats) are still built in Al Jahrah, although, nowadays, vessels are destined to work as pleasure boats rather than pearl fishing or trading vessels.  
• Mina Al Ahmadi . Mina Al Ahmadi, lying 19 km (12 miles) south of Kuwait City, is an oil port with immense jetties for supertanker traffic. The Oil Display Center pays homage to the work of the Kuwait Oil Company (reservations needed).  
• 29.421867 47.684854 2 Kazmah desert cliffs ( go on Road 80, turn right to Road 801 to Bubiyan, take first exit and turn left ). Being one of the few elevations in the Kuwaiti desert these cliffs allow a good view on the bay if the visibility is good. A lot of young Kuwaitis come here on weekends to challenge their Jeeps and quads uphill.  
• Desert , anywhere ( go north on Road 801, west on Road 70 or south on road 306 ). Although the city keeps growing, Kuwait is still largely a vast and uninhabited desert. Going away from the city many roads will take you to places where there is nothing but sand, sand and more sand. While this may be a form of excitement you'd look for every weekend in the winter as the locals do, it's also a nice experience once if you are visiting during the extremely hot summer.  
• War sites and memorials . The Gulf War in 1990-91 affected Kuwait's economy and ecology, however there are some sites from the war that can be found across the country.  
• Oases . While Kuwait is always scorching hot, its landscape includes a dot of some lively oases in a vast expanse of open desert.  

Do [ edit ]

See Kuwait City for more activities in the city.

• Sea Clubs & spas . Many of Kuwait's sea clubs offer a wide variety of facilities and activities such as indoor and outdoor swimming pools, beaches, tennis courts, gymnasiums, bowling and even karate.  
• Riding . Horse-riding clubs flourish in the winter. The Hunting and Equestrian Club is on the 6th ring road near Jaber Al Ahmed Al Sabah Armed Forces Hospital.  
• Golf . The golf course "Sahara Club" is located near the Hunting and Equestrian Club beside 6th ring road. It features a five-star restaurant and a spa.  
• Swimming and diving . Swimming is allowed on various public beaches along the Gulf Street. Women in swimwear are rare and might offend locals. The beach resorts as Radisson SAS and Palms offer beaches to both genders but will charge. However, since most beach areas are also the dump sites for raw, untreated sewage, swimming near the mainland is not recommended. Few homes have swimming pools and those that do are generally indoors, below ground. Many of the big hotels and spas have reasonably sized pools, but again can be quite expensive for those who are not guests.  
• Boating . Sailing and scuba diving are available. Powerboating is a Kuwaiti passion. Contact any of the hotels on the beach and they can arrange a trip for you. The best beach front hotels are the Hilton Resort, Movenpick Resort, Marina Hotel and the Radisson SAS. Hiring a boat should be done with caution and the boat should be inspected carefully for signs of neglect before agreeing on a rental. Many unwary tourists have been stranded at sea for hours while the coastguard ineptly attempts a rescue because like automobiles in Kuwait, mechanical maintenance is generally not a high priority for most boat owners.  
• Shopping in Malls . The largest mall in Kuwait is The Avenues on 5th ring road behind road 60. It is one of the largest malls in the whole Middle East and features a lot of clothing and electronics stores as well as a Carrefour and an Ikea. Furthermore it offers the best cinematic experience in Kuwait with VIP theatres with massaging reclining seats and a personal butler. Other popular malls include Marina Mall (Salmiya), Souq Sharq (Sharq), 360 Mall (includes a 3D Imax cinema, located in Jinoob al Surra between 6th ring road and road 50) and Al-Kout Mall (Fahaheel) which is famous for its orchestra musical fountains.  
• Shopping on Markets . Regardless of the growing amount of malls, Kuwait still hosts a lot of small markets. See the buy section in the Kuwait City article.  
• Drive to the Iraqi border ("Highway of death") . Rent yourself a car and drive north along highway 80. This six-lane road has almost no traffic and is almost straight, but gained some history during the war. You may get as far as the border control towards Iraq (around 1½ km before the border), but it's unlikely that you will get in (read: forget about it). Caution: check the current situation beforehand, be aware and know what you are doing! The border may be dangerous and border police is very alerted by cars approaching them! There is a gas station and a small supermarket right before the border control.  
• Drive through oil fields . There might be tours but you can easily drive through oil fields yourself. The areas are rather spread out so you will only see a glimpse. Also, fields are heavily protected (do not approach the fences!). Every entrance gate is also protected (there will be police). Do not take pictures. But all this adds to the overall impression and shows the status if the black gold. The unnamed road behind Al Abdaliyah might be a good point to start with, then driving south of Al Jaber Air Base towards Wafra.  

Buy [ edit ]

Money [ edit ].

The national currency is the Kuwaiti dinar , denoted by the symbol " د.ك " or "KD " (ISO code: KWD ). It has the distinction of being the world's strongest currency.

The dinar is divided into 1,000 fils. Notes are available in denominations of KD ¼, ½, 1, 5, 10 and 20. Coins are issued in denominations of 5, 10, 20, 50 and 100 fils. Notes feature inscriptions in Arabic on the front and English inscriptions on the back, with Arabic numerals (the numerals used in English) on both sides.

Notes issued before 1994 , many of which were stolen during the Iraqi occupation, are no longer legal tender. You are unlikely to see these in Kuwait (the designs are different), but unscrupulous dealers elsewhere have been known to try to pass them off. See the Central Bank of Kuwait for pictures.

Exchanging money can be difficult and exchanging travelers cheques even impossible. Stick to ATMs , which are ubiquitous and work fine. Higher-end establishments accept credit cards .

Costs [ edit ]

Although Kuwait is a tax haven 0% VAT and 0% income tax, it would be hard to manage on under US$100 per day, and you can very easily spend US$250 or more just on an ordinary hotel room, though hotel rooms start at around €50.

Tipping is generally not necessary. Taking a service charge is illegal in Kuwait.

Prices on common expenses (as of May 2022):

• Medium burger combo meal: KD 2 (McDonald's)
• Pizzas for 2 regular size: KD 7–8 (Domino's, Papa John's)
• Meal for 2, mid-range restaurant, three-course: KD 10–12
• Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant: KD 1 (Shawarma & Fatayir restaurants)
• South Indian Takeaways: KD 0.5 to 2
• 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 prices are among the cheapest in the world and most of the time are less than water, literally, which explains the Kuwaiti penchant for huge fuel-guzzling U.S. import vehicles.

Shopping [ edit ]

Kuwait is a tax-free country. Custom-made items, imported items, and shipping out of the country can be expensive, so shop wisely. Businesses are required by law to allow exchanges on credit cards purchases, and returns or exchanges on non-credit cards purchases for a period of a fortnight. If in a rare case you think a store isn't obeying the laws, don't hesitate to call Consumer Protection Department at 135.

Eat [ edit ]

There is a huge array of restaurants in Kuwait. Because nightlife is virtually non-existent, most people go out to restaurants and malls. A wide variety of international cuisines is available in high-end restaurants, although some heavily pork-based cuisines (German, e.g.) are conspicuously absent. Kuwait is known for its culinary specialties and catering services. Restaurants can be found in food courts in malls, and alternatively many international restaurants are grouped together in certain areas in Kuwait, namely:

• Behind the Roman Catholic Church in Kuwait City
• Outside the Mövenpick Resort in Al-Bida'a, near Rumaithiya and Salmiya
• In the Marina Crescent

Just ask any local where the "Restaurants Road" is and they will guide you to a road in Salmiya packed end-to-end with local restaurants serving a wide array of specialty sandwiches, juices and snacks. Alternatively, head to any of the major shopping malls which are also crowded with restaurants ranging from fast to gourmet food. Every conceivable U.S. chain is represented in Kuwait.

While rare, there are still some restaurants that serve traditional Kuwaiti food. Al-Marsa restaurant in Le Meridien Hotel (Bneid Al Gar location) has some traditional Kuwaiti seafood but with a relatively high price tag. A cheaper option is the quaint Shati Alwatia restaurant at the Behbehani Villa compound in the Qibla area of Kuwait City (behind the Mosques) and another Kuwaiti restaurant is Ferij Suwailih in salmiya area.

If you don't feel like going out to eat, just about every restaurant and eatery in the country delivers food anywhere. Order online from a number of sites and enjoy the same selections as at the restaurant for a tiny delivery fee (usually 200 to 400 fils) tacked onto the order total itself.

For general grocery shopping, each district has its own 'Co-operative Society' (Jumayya) which anyone can use, and they usually consist of a supermarket and a general do-it-yourself store. When paying for your grocery shopping the cashier will usually ask if you have a number (which is given to local customers as a way to build up credits). It is also normal that somebody will pack your grocery bags for you and will carry the bags to your car, unless you insist otherwise. It is customary to tip them about KD 0.500 if they do go to your car, although they do not normally wait around for it. Kuwait also offers a wide variety of hypermarkets ranging from local chains of excellent quality (The Sultan Company) to the ones operated by international heavy hitters such as Carrefour (By MAJ) and an Indian chain, LuLu. All of them offer selections of truly international range and usually at competitive prices.

Drink [ edit ]

Alcohol is banned outright in Kuwait. It may not be imported, manufactured, or possessed, even for personal use. Newspapers regularly report busts of illegal distilleries.

Sleep [ edit ]

Hotels in Kuwait are expensive, but major Western chains are well represented (see Kuwait City for hotel listings). Light sleepers should bring ear plugs as public announced prayers are broadcast before twilight and several times during the day.

Chalets and other weekend accommodation can be rented in many places along the southern part of the coast.

Work [ edit ]

The economy of Kuwait is best described as healthy: the standard of living is on par with many of the world's developed nations, the cost of living is low, unemployment is low, and taxes are virtually non-existent.

Many full-service office providers are available to businesses within Kuwait, such as IO Centers . Most large companies have high-quality office facilities but expect to see a significant portion of Kuwaiti businesses operating out of small 3- to 4-person offices. These businesses are usually owned by a Kuwaiti and staffed by Middle Easterners or Asians and don't usually hire nationals of Western descent. If you plan to work in Kuwait, check the academic requirements of desired positions, as in most cases, the Kuwaiti government insists on degrees from accredited universities.

Expect to be paid anywhere from KD400-800 for average middle-range positions to KD1000-1500 for higher jobs such as teaching or consulting. However, domestic maids can earn as little as KD50 per month, although food and accommodation are usually included with the job. Kuwait is heavily saturated with IT workers (mainly from India), so wages in the IT industry are meagre. If you are looking at accepting a job offer before coming to Kuwait, check carefully how much you will be paid and if your employer will assist you with accommodation. It is common for workers of Asian nationality to fall victim to promises of good pay and provision of accommodation only to find themselves having their passports confiscated and falling under the control of their sponsor. Be sure to check the reputation and creditability of any potential employer before accepting a position.

Any foreign national wishing to work in Kuwait must have a working visa under a Kuwaiti sponsor. There is no provision for freelance work. Foreign nationals found working without a work permit will be promptly apprehended and asked to leave, resulting in a possible ban from returning.

Stay safe [ edit ]

Kuwait, by and large, is a very safe country to visit.

Emergency telephone number (police, fire, ambulance) is 112 .

Extreme weather [ edit ]

Perhaps the biggest danger in Kuwait is the hot climate . Temperatures can reach record highs during the summers. Be sure to hydrate often when walking out during the day, and wear appropriate clothing to deal with the heat.

Crime [ edit ]

The crime threat in Kuwait is assessed as low. Violent crimes against foreigners are rare but do occur. Physical and verbal harassment of women are continuing problems. Kuwaiti drivers can also be quite reckless.

Photography [ edit ]

Photography is probably the easiest way for a visitor to (inadvertently) get into trouble.

Do not take pictures or record videos of government buildings or anything of strategic importance (airports, oil fields) or else you could be detained by the authorities.

Also, do not take pictures or record videos of Kuwaitis without their explicit permission; it is very rude.

Stay healthy [ edit ]

Public health is entirely supported by the government at local clinics and hospitals, with a KD 5 fee paid by foreigners visiting Kuwait and KD 1 for expats with a resident visa, or a visitor's visa. Private non-governmental clinics are available as well, but charge much more at KD 30 and upwards. You will be entitled to free treatment in case of an accident or an emergency. In case of an emergency, call 112 .

Tap water is drinkable, although most of it is desalinated and not particularly tasty, and in summertime, you may have a hard time telling apart the hot and cold taps. Bottled water is available everywhere for a few hundred fils.

Respect [ edit ]

Much of what's considered good manners in the Arab world applies to Kuwait.

You should be very smart about what you openly say to someone — honour is an important part of Kuwaiti culture and Kuwaitis will not hesitate to react with anger if you say or do anything that makes them feel insulted. Keep in mind that it is a crime to insult, humiliate, make fun of, or make defamatory statements about someone in public. The law is broadly defined and open to interpretation. In other words, if you have nothing nice to say, don't say anything at all.

Kuwait adopts a live-and-let-live policy for clothing, and you'll see a wide range of styles: women wear anything ranging from daring designer fashions to head-to-toe black abayas with headscarves, while men can be seen both in T-shirts and shorts or the traditional dazzling white dishdashah . To avoid unnecessary attention, though, women will want to steer clear of showing midriffs. Ironically, low necklines are less offensive. Bikinis are fine at the hotel pool, but not on public beaches. Public nudity is prohibited everywhere and not tolerated.

Do not eat, drink or smoke in public during the holy month of Ramadan or you may be fined or even go to jail. The fine is KD 100. Also, during Ramadan working hours may be shorter and restaurants will be closed during the day, even at the international airport. However, most supermarkets will remain open so food can still be purchased from there. Also, major hotels will offer breakfast (some start before dawn) and food during the day. Almost all restaurants offer Ramadan meals after dusk with set meals. If you are working, many employers will provide a space where Westerners may eat during Ramadan, but if not, it is inadvisable to consume anything in the presence of Muslim coworkers during Ramadan.

Although Kuwait is a relatively democratic country with some of the strongest press-freedoms in the Middle East , the ruling Al-Sabah family is venerated and the ruling family is projected by strict lèse-majesté laws, i.e, it is illegal to criticise them and challenge their authority. In Kuwait, the penalty for lèse-majesté is imprisonment . In 2013, a Kuwaiti teacher was sentenced to 11 years in prison for insulting the emir on social media.

Homosexuality is illegal, although you will frequently observe local men kissing when greeting and also holding hands when walking together, as this is not considered homosexual behavior in Kuwait.

Public display of affection between men and women is illegal.

Connect [ edit ]

Phone [ edit ]

The country code for Kuwait is 965 . Local phone numbers are 8 digits long. Numbers starting with 2 are landline telephones, while numbers starting with 5,6 or 9 are mobile telephones numbers and numbers starting with 1 are service numbers. there are no area code and dialing within Kuwait will never require an additional 0 in the beginning.

Mobile [ edit ]

Kuwait uses GSM and mobile phones are widely available. The operators are Zain , Wataniya Telecom (Ooredoo) , and Viva . As roaming charges can be very steep, it makes sense to get a local SIM card. a new SIM can be obtained from any of the official branches. A SIM can be bought from most telephone stores, and doesn't require registration. Registration requires the passport of the one who's applying. The prices for a new SIM card are very low:

• Viva: KD 2 with 1 KD 1 balance + KD 1 local talking time.

The charges apply on the caller only.

Kuwait is a small country. The whole country is covered, so don't worry about each operator coverage. However, since Viva is a relatively new company, you'll get lower signal and even lower LTE signal.

Internet [ edit ]

There are several internet and telecom service providers in Kuwait. The media in Kuwait is among the most outspoken in the Gulf states, journalists self-censor on issues related to royal family. Kuwait is one of the fastest growing ICT markets in the region. Majority of the Kuwaiti population can afford to have Internet services at home, the reason the country has fewer Internet cafes than other Gulf countries.

Major Internet service providers in Kuwait.

• FASTtelco Tel: +965 22256688 Email: [email protected] Website: www.fasttelco.net
• Gulfnet Tel: +965 1816666 Website: www.gulfnet.com.kw
• Mada Tel: +965 1822888 Website: www.mada.com.kw
• Qualitynet Tel: +965 1804444 Website: www.qualitynet.net
• Zajil Telecom (KEMS) Tel: +965 1820820 Email: [email protected] Website: www.zajil.com

Telecommunications

Fixed (Landline) line telephony services are provided by the Ministry of Communications (MoC). To subscribe you need to apply at your local branch of the MoC. Typical documents required are Tenancy contract, employer letter and civil id. Most expats don't tend to bother however and choose one of the 3 mobile operators.

Mobile Internet [ edit ]

LTE is available nearly everywhere. if there's no LTE, the connection will be changed to HSPA+, which is very fast. VIVA offers LTE for the same price as 3G. However, their network is relatively slow. Zain's and Wataniya's LTE prices are different from the 3G prices, but their network is fast.

Connection points [ edit ]

• Shopping malls: Fastelco [dead link] , one of the ISPs provide you with one hour of free high speed Wi-Fi each day. KEMS [dead link] , another ISP have a lot of access points, but their internet isn't free.
• Starbucks: Starbucks' Wi-Fi is free for an hour but requires a Starbucks card. However, connection speed in Starbucks is limited to less than 512 Kbps, so it's not recommended. Also electricity sockets aren't available if you plan to charge your device while using it.

Home Internet [ edit ]

If you already subscribed to mobile phone internet, you can always turn on the portable hotspot in you phone and then connect to the internet in you computer/laptop, tablet or any other device.

Internet is available via different ways, the most stable and popular way is via ADSL subscription. Subscribing to ADSL service requires a landline. Internet access starts at KD 39 a year at 1Mbit/s. ADSL connection are mainly available via annual subscription. However, 1 month, 3-month and 6-month subscriptions are also available.

Some people may choose to use an LTE mini routers or CPEs (fixed routers) and use mobile internet services from Zain, Wataniya (Ooredoo) and Viva, this is a good option if you're planning on staying for a little time. However, connecting this way is capped.

Another recommendation is to try a relatively new service, "Mada". This service is Wimax and up to 10 Mbit/s download speed (although the speed never reaches this rate, and in some areas it will not even reach 1 Mbps). the cost [dead link] is KD 40 for the main router and KD 25 per month.

Websites containing adult content are censored by all of the internet providers by direction of the Minister of Communications. Skype is legal in Kuwait. All other VoIP clients like Line, Tango and Viber and Skype can easily be download from phones' applications' markets (e.g. Appstore or Google Play).

Telephone [ edit ]

Kuwait has high international call rates. Although calling overseas is also very cheap It's recommended to use apps and services like Line or Skype to call overseas. For home usage, Phoneserve cards are available (mostly in Hawally) that can be used for cheap calls worldwide. Users with credit cards use Skype and Yahoo Voice for communication as well, but Skype website is banned now (However, the app can be used).

Some traditional corner-shops called "Baqqalat" (singular. Baqqala) sell an international calling card called Big Boss which offers good rates to Europe but only when calling landlines. For the rest of continents the rates are decent even when calling mobile phones.

Go next [ edit ]

Like when entering Kuwait, most people leaving will probably do so by plane. Thus, you can choose among several interesting small Gulf states including the UAE , Qatar and Bahrain reachable by plane in just one hour or so. Iran and Oman are also close by.

Going elsewhere overland can be a bit tricky. Saudi-Arabia requires virtually all foreigners to obtain a visa and doesn't issue them for just "tourism". In the same way practically everyone needs a visa to enter Iraq, and while you probably could get a tourist visa, consider that Iraq is one of the world's most dangerous countries. By boat, you can reportedly travel to Iran and Bahrain.

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Visiting Kuwait: A Travel Guide for First Timers

By: Author Stefania Guglielmi

Posted on Last updated: January 1, 2023

Categories Kuwait , Middle East

Thinking of traveling to the Middle East but don’t know where to go? Think no more. I have the perfect destination for you and that is Kuwait. Kuwait may not be on your bucket list of travel destinations but the country is worth visiting.

In this article, I’ll tell you a few things you should know about Kuwait and then you can decide if you want to plan a trip to this tiny country which borders Iraq and Saudi Arabia.

Table of Contents

What Are Some Key Facts About Kuwait?

Kuwait is a Muslim country in the Persian Gulf. The nation is oil-rich having 10% of the world’s oil reserves. They sell over 60% of their oil to Asian countries and their economy is largely petroleum based. The country’s currency the Kuwaiti Dinar is the world’s highest-valued currency.

You may know Kuwait mostly because of the 1990 Gulf War. The war started after the invasion of the country by the Iraqi dictator Saddam Hussein, who wanted Kuwaiti’s oil, caused instability in the country.

However, Kuwait has moved on since the war and is now stable and peaceful for you to visit.  A clear indication of the country’s stability is that 70% of the population is made up of expatriates. With a population of 4.25 million people, the number of Kuwaitis is only slightly over one million.

Majority of the population lives in the Capital which is Kuwait City and most enjoy a high standard of life given that Kuwait is a wealthy country.

What Do You Need to Travel To Kuwait?

They are two crucial documents required for you to be allowed into Kuwait. A valid passport and a Kuwait visa.

For example, the Kuwait visa requirements for Indian citizens traveling to Kuwait are: • You must have an Indian passport which is valid for at least 6 months upon arrival in Kuwait. • An approved Kuwait eVisa. You can apply for your visa online. The process takes less than 10 minutes. All you need to do is fill an online visa application form with your personal and passport details, plus information about your trip to Kuwait. Once you submit the form and everything checks out your visa will be sent to you in a few hours by email.

Nationals from the USA, Canada, Australia and the EU can also get a visa on arrival. I recommend checking in advance the requirements for your passport.

Best Things To Do in Kuwait

Kuwait has several tourist attractions that you’ll enjoy visiting. I will list for you some of the top attractions you must visit when you travel there.

Al Hamra – Located in Kuwait  City this the tallest tower in Kuwait and the 15th tallest sculpted tower in the world. The tower which took six years to construct has 80 floors and from it, you can get an amazing aerial view of Kuwait.

Liberation Tower – After Al Hamra, this is the second tallest building in Kuwait. On a clear day atop the tower, you can see the whole of Kuwait. The tower also has a revolving restaurant from which you can sample some Kuwaiti cuisine as you enjoy your view.

The Grand Mosque – This is the largest mosque in Kuwait. If you want to learn more about the nation’s Muslim religion take one of the daily tours at the mosque. The Grand Mosque is also beautifully built and you can go admire its architecture.

Failaka Island – The Gulf War came with a lot of destruction. On this island which is 20 km east of Kuwait City the effects of wars can be seen. Homes, office, hospitals, etc. destroyed during the war have not been rebuilt. Failaka Island gives you a first-hand experience of what war does to a country. The island which was once inhabited is abandoned now. On the island, you can also visit archaeological sites that date back to the Bronze Age.

Kuwaiti Desert – A visit to Kuwait would be incomplete without a trip to the desert. Activities you can do in the desert include camel rides or camping for a night in the desert. If you venture into the desert remember to carry sunscreen, sunglasses, hats and UPF clothing.

Kuwait Beaches – Kuwait has spectacular sandy beaches for you to just chill and soak up some sun. The beaches fall into three categories public beaches, beach parks, and beach clubs. Public beaches are open to all but for beach parks and beach clubs, you will have to pay to access the beach. Beach clubs are more expensive as the offer more luxurious surroundings.

Old Souk/ Mubarakiya – Visit this market if you want to taste some mouth-watering Arabic dishes.

To shop for trip souvenirs head over to the Haraj – the Friday market.

There many other places you can visit in Kuwait like the House of Mirrors and Avenues Mall . You should consider hiring a guide who can take you around Kuwait so that you don’t miss out on its key attractions. Being a small country you can see it all in two or three days.

Key Information to Keep in Mind When Visiting Kuwait

There are some rules you must adhere to if you don’t want to get into trouble when in Kuwait. Let us go to through some of them.

• Possession of alcohol, drugs, pork or pornographic material is illegal. If you’re found with any of this you could get a serious jail term.

• Homosexuality is also illegal in Kuwait. Talking about or displaying homosexual behavior will also land you in jail.

• Public display of affection is frowned upon. Cuddling or kissing in public may not get you as severe a punishment as homosexuality but avoid it. No need to go looking for trouble.

• I’ve heard multiple times that driving in Kuwait is a nightmare. So if you’re thinking of hiring a car and driving yourself around, you might want to rethink it. The safety record on Kuwaiti roads is bad. Drivers over speed, tailgate and generally ignore traffic rules making the number of road accidents high. The traffic on the road is also terrible.

• When it comes to dressing, dress conservatively. For women, tight clothing or revealing clothing may get you some unwanted attention. For men, avoid shorts that are above the knees and sleeveless tops.

• Kuwait may not excite you at first like other countries. However, once you travel to the country and meet its warm people, experience it culture, try their amazing food, tour the museums, shopping malls, and get some rest and relaxation on their beaches you will have a different opinion about the country.

Where To Stay in Kuwait

Kuwait has many hotels you can find accommodation at. Depending on your budget you can stay at a budget-friendly hotel or book a luxury suite at any of the five-star hotels in Kuwait City. Book your accommodation by using the map below ⬇

Royal Inn Hotel – This is a budget hotel located in Al Salmiya. It is about twenty minutes away from Kuwait City and is close to the beach. Being in a desert, temperatures in Kuwait are extremely high so you’ll be happy to know this hotel has air-conditioned rooms.

Le Royal – Some of the amenities at this four-star hotel are an outdoor pool and a gym. From the hotel, you can have scenic views of the Gulf state and are offered free Wi-Fi.

The Regency Hotel – If you’re looking for top-notch accommodation in Kuwait the luxurious Regency Hotel will do it for you. This five-star hotel is on a private beach and has several fine dining restaurants you can try out. It is also minutes away from most of Kuwait tourist attractions.

Stefania Guglielmi is the founder of Every Steph. Originally from Bologna, Italy, she's been traveling full-time since 2016 and has visited over 50 countries across 6 continents. She believes sustainable travel and luxury travel can go hand in hand and has been advocating for responsible tourism since 2014. Stefania's advice and travel experiences have been featured in important publications such as Business Insider, Refinery29, and Yahoo Money.

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Introducing Kuwait

About kuwait.

• Images of Kuwait
• History, language & culture
• Weather & geography
• Doing business & staying in touch

Plan your trip

• Travel to Kuwait
• Where to stay

While you’re there

• Things to see & do
• Shopping & nightlife
• Food & drink
• Getting around

Before you go

• Passport & visa
• Public Holidays
• Money & duty free

Book your flights

• Kuwait City
• Kuwait International Airport

Kuwait travel guide

In Kuwait you'll find an intriguing mix of Western liberalism and traditional Islamic culture. The capital, Kuwait City, is a bustling metropolis of high-rise buildings and luxury hotels, while the Gulf country is also home to spectacular mosques and palaces. Religion is an integral part of daily life here.

This juxtaposition perhaps stems from Kuwait's marrying of Islamism with oil wealth, which for decades has earned it the attention of Western powers. Upon independence from Britain in 1961, Sheikh Abdullah assumed head of state, adopting the title of emir. The large revenues from oil production allowed independent Kuwait to build up its economic infrastructure and institute educational and social welfare programmes.

In the early 1990s, the emir established a National Assembly ( Majlis ), which placed limits on the power of the ruling family. Since then, the national assembly has clashed several times with the emir and the cabinet (which is still dominated by the al-Sabah family) over misuse of state funds and poor management of the all-important oil industry. Underlying these disputes is the growing impression that the ageing al-Sabah clan is no longer capable of running the country. However, they continue to dominate Kuwaiti policies.

Surrounded by three major Middle Eastern powers, Kuwait became the target of Iraqi territorial claims, leading to Saddam Hussein's invasion of the country in 1990. The Kuwaitis later recovered their country by virtue of a US-led, UN-backed multinational military force.

After a period of euphoria, the Kuwaitis had to address a number of difficult questions; the future security of the country was dealt with by the signing of defence and security pacts with the USA, the UK and Kuwait's Gulf allies. More recently, Kuwait was one of the first countries to join Operation Iraqi Freedom following the US-led war against Iraq, and provided aid and support during Iraq's (ongoing) process of reconstruction.

Beyond the geopolitical dimension, Kuwait is a fascinating country with much elaborate architecture and a superb culinary tradition. Its inhabitants are a warm, welcoming bunch, while the fact that Kuwait is a bit less glitzy than other oil-rich Gulf countries means that it can feel like a haven of tradition Arab culture.

17,818 sq km (6,880 sq miles).

4,007,146 (UN estimate 2016).

156.5 per sq km.

Kuwait City.

Constitutional emirate.

Emir Sheikh Mishal Al Ahmad Al Jabir Al Sabah since 2023.

Prime Minister Sheikh Muhammad Sabah Al Salim Al Sabah since 2024.

Travel Advice

Before you travel .

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide and any specific travel advice that applies to you: 

• women travellers  
• disabled travellers  
• LGBT+ travellers  
• solo and independent travel  
• volunteering and adventure travel  

Travel insurance 

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance . Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency. 

About FCDO travel advice

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) provides advice about risks of travel to help British nationals make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice . 

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this advice is updated. 

This information is for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK. It is based on the UK government’s understanding of the current rules for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in Kuwait set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Kuwaiti Embassy in the UK: 

2 Albert Gate 

London, SW1X 7JU 

Telephone: 020 7590 3400 

COVID-19 rules 

There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering Kuwait. 

Passport validity requirements 

To enter Kuwait, your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least 6 months after the date you arrive. 

Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.  

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen. 

Previous travel to Israel 

If your passport contains an Israeli stamp, you may be refused a visa or entry to Kuwait. 

Visa requirements 

You must have a visa to visit Kuwait. 

Applying for a visa 

You can apply for an e-visa before you travel or get a visa on arrival in Kuwait. The Kuwait Ministry of Interior has information on e-visas. 

Checks at border control  

You must be able to show: 

• a ticket for return or onward travel 
• proof of your accommodation, for example, a hotel booking  
• work visas (both public and private sector) require further documents from employer. See further details on visas and requirements  

Working or living in Kuwait 

For work or residency visas, apply to the Kuwaiti Embassy in London. 

If you’re applying for a residency visa, your passport must be valid for at least 2 years. Your employers should not keep your passport. 

For further information, read about living in Kuwait.  

Vaccine requirements  

For details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see TravelHealthPro’s Kuwait guide .  

Customs rules 

There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of Kuwait . You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty. Failure to declare could result in: 

• imprisonment 
• refusal of entry and possible deportation

It is illegal to import:  

• narcotics  
• gambling machines 
• pork and pork products 
• pornographic material  

Taking money into Kuwait 

Declare cash or travellers cheques if the value is 3000 Kuwaiti dinars (£7,500) or more. You will get a certified declaration to show you brought it in with you. If you do not, your money could be seized when you leave. 

Terrorism  

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.      

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad . 

Terrorism in Kuwait 

Terrorists are likely to try and carry out attacks in Kuwait. 

Terrorists have threatened to carry out attacks in the Gulf region, including on:  

• residential compounds 
• restaurants and hotels 
• shopping centres 
• military, oil, transport and aviation interests 

Stay aware of your surroundings, keep up to date with local media reports and follow the advice of local authorities. 

Examples of recent significant incidents include: 

• in 2020, 6 minors were arrested in Kuwait on suspicion of links with ISIS 
• in 2024, 3 individuals were arrested on suspicion of an alleged ISIS plot against a place of worship 
• Red Sea military activity 

There is a military response to Houthi militants’ attempts to disrupt international shipping in the Red Sea. The military activity is limited to the Red Sea and Yemen, but travel advice for Kuwait could change at short notice. You should monitor travel advice and follow instructions from local authorities.

Political situation  

Recent developments in the Middle East have heightened tensions in the region. Planned and pre-approved peaceful protests are legal, however these are for Kuwaiti citizens only.  

There have also been minor, isolated cases of vandalism aimed at some international companies, or calls for them to be boycotted.  

Be mindful of local sensitivities on these issues, stay away from demonstrations or developing crowds and follow the advice of the local authorities.

Violent crime against foreigners is rare. However, take care if you plan to travel to Jahra or Jleeb Al Shuyoukh, where there have been incidents of robberies, petty theft and road rage. 

Border crossings  

It is illegal and dangerous to go near Kuwait’s borders without authorisation. Armed guards regularly patrol these areas.  

Kuwait-Saudi Arabia border 

It is easy to miss the border posts between Kuwait and Saudi Arabia. You must only use an authorised land border crossing and make sure to get an exit or entry stamp before you continue your journey. 

Kuwait-Iraq border 

If you plan to cross the border from Kuwait into Iraq, make sure you have the correct paperwork. See the Iraqi Embassy to Kuwait website for more information. 

Landmines and unexploded weapons 

There are landmines and other unexploded weapons in Kuwait.  

You should: 

• avoid off-road driving 
• stay on clearly marked identifiable tracks if you travel off-road 
• take great care even if an area has been officially cleared 
• not pick up metal, plastic or other objects 

Laws and cultural differences  

Kuwait is a Muslim country. Always respect local traditions, customs, laws and religions. Make sure your actions do not offend other cultures or religious beliefs, especially during the holy month of Ramadan or if you visit religious areas.  

Personal ID 

As a visiting foreign national, you must always carry your passport. If you are resident in Kuwait, you must always carry your Kuwaiti civil identification card.  

Keep copies of your passport photo page and your visa or entry stamp in a separate place. 

Ramadan is a holy month for Muslims. The dates vary by year and country. Ramadan in Kuwait started on 10 March in 2024 and will last for 29 to 30 days. During this time, do not:  

• eat, drink, smoke or chew gum in public in the daytime, including in your car  
• play loud music or dance  
• swear in public  

Get more advice when you arrive from your tour guide, hotel or business contacts.  

You should also:  

• check opening hours of shops and restaurants  
• be aware that if hotels and restaurants are providing food or drink in fasting hours, they may separate you from Islamic guests, for example with screens  
• follow local dress codes – clothing that does not meet local dress codes may cause more offence at this time  
• be aware that driving may be erratic, particularly when people are trying to get home at dusk  
• be patient and show tolerance 

Dress code 

Dress and behave modestly in public, particularly in downtown or conservative areas. Women should avoid wearing shorts or tight-fitting or revealing clothing.

Do not expose body piercings or tattoos that may be perceived as extreme or offensive – for example, you could be accused of violating religious sanctity for a tattoo of verse from the holy Quran in Arabic.

Relationships outside of marriage 

It is illegal for an unmarried couple to live together in the same house or stay in the same hotel room. You will  be asked to provide a marriage certificate if sharing a hotel room.  

Public behaviour  

It’s illegal to insult or humiliate any person verbally or through obscene gestures in a public place, including a police officer, public official or private individual. Police may arrest you and conviction may lead to prosecution, imprisonment, or immediate deportation. 

It is frowned on for men and women to show affection in public. 

Alcohol laws 

Buying, selling or carrying alcohol and drunken behaviour in public is punishable by a fine or imprisonment and can result in deportation. 

Illegal drugs penalties  

Penalties for drug trafficking include the death sentence. Possession or use of illegal drugs can lead to a prison sentence of between 5 and 10 years, and a heavy fine. Bail is not usually given and even if found not guilty, you can expect to spend several months in detention while the case progresses through the judicial system. 

Using cameras in secure areas 

It is illegal to photograph or take videos of: 

• government buildings  
• military buildings 
• industrial buildings or oil-related infrastructure  
• other restricted areas such as borders and oil fields 
• record people without their knowledge or consent 

Unpaid fines and bills  

All foreign nationals must pay traffic fines, phone bills and utility bills before they leave Kuwait. The Kuwaiti authorities may:  

• stop you from leaving the country 
• arrest you, or send you to prison 
• deport you, and not allow you to return to Kuwait 
• refuse renewal of your residency card or re-entry visa  

Financial crimes 

Bouncing cheques is illegal and the law does not provide for offenders to be released from custody on bail.  

Commercial disputes 

If you’re involved in a commercial dispute with a Kuwaiti company or individual, the Kuwaiti authorities may prevent you from leaving the country until it is resolved.  

LGBT+ travellers 

Same-sex activity is illegal. 

Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers . 

Transport risks  

Road travel  .

If you are planning to drive in Kuwait, see information on driving abroad .  

If you have a visit visa, you can drive in Kuwait using a UK photocard driving licence. If you still have a paper driving licence, you may need to update it to a photocard licence or get the correct version of the international driving permit ( IDP ) as well.  

There is also guidance on driving if you live in Kuwait . 

Car insurance 

You must get third-party insurance in Kuwait before you drive.  

If you hire a car, you can usually get insurance through the hire company. If you drive a relative or friend’s car, you’re responsible for getting insurance. You must always keep the insurance document with you while driving. 

Car accidents  

If you have a major accident, where there are serious injuries or a vehicle is not drivable:  

• stay with your vehicle if it is safe to do so 
• call the police on 112 
• do not move the vehicle before the police arrive 

If you have a minor accident, where there are no serious injuries: 

• take pictures of vehicle damage if it is safe to do so 
• record licence plate numbers of vehicles involved 
• move your vehicle to avoid blocking traffic if it is drivable - you can get a fine if you do not do this 
• call the police on 112 and follow their instructions 

Drink-driving   

Drink-driving is a serious offence in Kuwait. If you are tested and found to have any alcohol in your system, you may get a fine, imprisonment, or deportation and the withdrawal of your driving licence. 

Driving conditions 

Driving conditions are hazardous. Many drivers pay little attention to other road users and may:  

• drive faster than speed limits 
• switch lanes without warning 
• ignore traffic lights 
• use mobile phones while driving 

Sea travel 

Many areas of the Gulf are highly sensitive, including near:  

• maritime boundaries 
• Bubiyan and Warbah, northern Gulf islands 
• Abu Musa and the Tunbs, southern Gulf islands 

The area of the northern Gulf between Iran, Iraq and Kuwait has not been demarcated, and vessels entering this area have been detained and inspected. There have been occasional arrests. Make careful enquiries before entering these waters or visiting ports. 

Take extra care when sailing in Kuwaiti waters – regional tensions may affect your planned route. There may be an increased risk of attack on vessels in the Gulf of Oman, North Arabian Sea, Gulf of Aden and Bab El Mandeb regions. 

Take care when travelling by dhow, as the safety of these sailing vessels may not be up to UK standards. Make sure life jackets are available. 

Before you travel check that: 

your destination can provide the healthcare you may need 

you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation  

This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant. 

Emergency medical number 

Call 112 and ask for an ambulance. 

Contact your insurance company quickly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment. 

Vaccine recommendations and health risks 

At least 8 weeks before your trip:  

• check the latest vaccine recommendations for Kuwait  
• see where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page   

Medication 

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries. 

Read best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro . 

The NHS has information on whether you can take your medicine abroad . 

Healthcare facilities in Kuwait 

There is a state medical service with local clinics and several good hospitals. There are also private medical and dental facilities.  

Private medical fees are high. The Kuwaiti government controls fees and has increased them for foreign residents and visitors. Make sure you have adequate travel health insurance and accessible funds to cover the cost of any medical treatment and repatriation.  

If you work in Kuwait, check whether your employer provides appropriate private medical insurance which includes repatriation. If not, you’re strongly advised to take out personal medical insurance for yourself and any dependants. 

FCDO has a list of medical providers in Kuwait where some staff will speak English. 

There is also guidance on healthcare if you’re living in Kuwait .  

Travel and mental health 

Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health . There is also mental health guidance on TravelHealthPro . 

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) cannot provide tailored advice for individual trips. Read this travel advice and carry out your own research before deciding whether to travel. 

Emergency services in Kuwait  

Telephone: 112 (ambulance, fire, police) 

Contact your travel provider and insurer 

Contact your travel provider and your insurer if you are involved in a serious incident or emergency abroad. They will tell you if they can help and what you need to do. 

Refunds and changes to travel 

For refunds or changes to travel, contact your travel provider. You may also be able to make a claim through insurance. However, insurers usually require you to talk to your travel provider first. 

Find out more about changing or cancelling travel plans , including: 

• where to get advice if you are in a dispute with a provider 
• how to access previous versions of travel advice to support a claim 

Support from FCDO  

FCDO has guidance on staying safe and what to do if you need help or support abroad, including: 

• finding English-speaking  lawyers and  translators and interpreters  in Kuwait  
• dealing with a  death in Kuwait   
• being  arrested or imprisoned in Kuwait  
• getting help if you’re a  victim of crime   
• what to do if you’re  in hospital   
• if you’re affected by a crisis , such as a terrorist attack 

Contacting FCDO  

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this travel advice is updated. 

You can also contact FCDO online .  

Help abroad in an emergency 

If you’re in Kuwait and you need emergency help from the UK government, contact the British Embassy in Kuwait City . 

FCDO in London 

You can call FCDO in London if you need urgent help because something has happened to a friend or relative abroad. 

Telephone: 020 7008 5000 (24 hours) 

Find out about call charges  

Risk information for British companies  

The Overseas Business Risk service offers information and advice for British companies operating in Kuwait on how to manage political, economic, and business security-related risks. 

Related Articles

City Highlight: Kuwait City

With its stunning skyline, a plethora of fabulous restaurants and cultural hotspots, Kuwait City is definitely a top contender within the Arabian Gulf

Book a Hotel

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• Passports, travel and living abroad
• Travel abroad
• Foreign travel advice

Entry requirements

This information is for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK. It is based on the UK government’s understanding of the current rules for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in Kuwait set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Kuwaiti Embassy in the UK: 

2 Albert Gate 

London, SW1X 7JU 

Telephone: 020 7590 3400 

COVID-19 rules 

There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering Kuwait. 

Passport validity requirements 

To enter Kuwait, your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least 6 months after the date you arrive. 

Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.  

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen. 

Previous travel to Israel 

If your passport contains an Israeli stamp, you may be refused a visa or entry to Kuwait. 

Visa requirements 

You must have a visa to visit Kuwait. 

Applying for a visa 

You can apply for an e-visa before you travel or get a visa on arrival in Kuwait. The Kuwait Ministry of Interior has information on e-visas. 

Checks at border control  

You must be able to show: 

• a ticket for return or onward travel 
• proof of your accommodation, for example, a hotel booking  
• work visas (both public and private sector) require further documents from employer. See further details on visas and requirements  

Working or living in Kuwait 

For work or residency visas, apply to the Kuwaiti Embassy in London. 

If you’re applying for a residency visa, your passport must be valid for at least 2 years. Your employers should not keep your passport. 

For further information, read about living in Kuwait.  

Vaccine requirements  

For details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see TravelHealthPro’s Kuwait guide .  

Customs rules 

There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of Kuwait . You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty. Failure to declare could result in: 

• imprisonment 
• refusal of entry and possible deportation

It is illegal to import:  

• narcotics  
• gambling machines 
• pork and pork products 
• pornographic material  

Taking money into Kuwait 

Declare cash or travellers cheques if the value is 3000 Kuwaiti dinars (£7,500) or more. You will get a certified declaration to show you brought it in with you. If you do not, your money could be seized when you leave. 

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Kuwait Traveler View

Travel health notices, vaccines and medicines, non-vaccine-preventable diseases, stay healthy and safe.

• Packing List

After Your Trip

There are no notices currently in effect for Kuwait.

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Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

Routine vaccines

Recommendations.

Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip. Some of these vaccines include

• Chickenpox (Varicella)
• Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
• Flu (influenza)
• Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

Immunization schedules

All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. Please see  Your COVID-19 Vaccination  for more information. 

COVID-19 vaccine

Hepatitis A

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to Kuwait.

Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.

Travelers allergic to a vaccine component or who are younger than 6 months should receive a single dose of immune globulin, which provides effective protection for up to 2 months depending on dosage given.

Unvaccinated travelers who are over 40 years old, immunocompromised, or have chronic medical conditions planning to depart to a risk area in less than 2 weeks should get the initial dose of vaccine and at the same appointment receive immune globulin.

Hepatitis A - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep A

Hepatitis B

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers younger than 60 years old traveling to Kuwait. Unvaccinated travelers 60 years and older may get vaccinated before traveling to Kuwait.

Hepatitis B - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep B

Cases of measles are on the rise worldwide. Travelers are at risk of measles if they have not been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior to departure, or have not had measles in the past, and travel internationally to areas where measles is spreading.

All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6–11 months, according to  CDC’s measles vaccination recommendations for international travel .

Measles (Rubeola) - CDC Yellow Book

Rabid dogs are commonly found in Kuwait. However, if you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other mammal while in Kuwait, rabies treatment is often available. 

Consider rabies vaccination before your trip if your activities mean you will be around dogs or wildlife.

Travelers more likely to encounter rabid animals include

• Campers, adventure travelers, or cave explorers (spelunkers)
• Veterinarians, animal handlers, field biologists, or laboratory workers handling animal specimens
• Visitors to rural areas

Since children are more likely to be bitten or scratched by a dog or other animals, consider rabies vaccination for children traveling to Kuwait. 

Rabies - CDC Yellow Book

Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities or rural areas.

Typhoid - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Typhoid

Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

• Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
• Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
• Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
• Avoid contaminated water and soil

Clinical Guidance

Avoid bug bites.

• Mosquito bite
• Avoid Bug Bites

Leishmaniasis

• Sand fly bite

Airborne & droplet

• Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
• Bite from an infected rodent
• Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
• Avoid rodents and areas where they live
• Avoid sick people

Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS)

• Scientists do not fully understand how the MERS virus spreads
• May spread from to others when an infected person coughs or sneezes
• May spread to people from camels.

Middle East Respiratory virus syndrome (MERS)

Tuberculosis (TB)

• Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Kuwait, so your behaviors are important.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

• Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
• Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
• Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene | Healthy Water
• Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the  Department of State Country Information Pages  for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Kuwait. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

• Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
• Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
• Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
• Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
• Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

• FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
• Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
• Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
• 2-undecanone
• Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

• Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
• Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in Kuwait include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.

• Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
• Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
• Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
• If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
• Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
• Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
• Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

• Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
• Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
• Do not dive into shallow water.
• Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
• Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
• To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

• Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
• Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
• Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
• Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
• If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

• Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
• Go to a doctor right away.
• Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

• Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
• If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
• Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
• Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
• If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

• Use latex condoms correctly.
• Do not inject drugs.
• Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
• Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
• If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

• Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
• Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
• Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
• Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Kuwait’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
• Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

• Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
• Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
• Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

• Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
• Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
• Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
• Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
• Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
• Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

• Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
• Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
• Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

• Wear a seatbelt at all times.
• Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
• When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
• Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Kuwait may be poor.
• Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
• Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
• If you choose to drive a vehicle in Kuwait, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
• Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
• Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
• Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
• If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
• Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Medical Evacuation Insurance

If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

• Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
• Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
• Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
• Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

• Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
• Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
• Follow all local laws and social customs.
• Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
• Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
• If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Kuwait for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

Map Disclaimer - The boundaries and names shown and the designations used on maps do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention concerning the legal status of any country, territory, city or area or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries. Approximate border lines for which there may not yet be full agreement are generally marked.

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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Kuwait travel advice

Latest updates: The Need help? section was updated.

Last updated: April 16, 2024 08:05 ET

On this page

Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, kuwait - exercise a high degree of caution.

Exercise a high degree of caution in Kuwait due to the threat of terrorism.

Jaleeb Al-Shuyoukh - AVOID NON-ESSENTIAL TRAVEL

Avoid non-essential travel to Jaleeb Al-Shuyoukh due to high crime rates.

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There is a threat of terrorism. There is an increased risk of attacks in or near places of worship, particularly Shia places of worship, and heightened security measures have been put in place at these sites. Be particularly vigilant in or near places of worship.

Targets also could include:

• government buildings, including schools
• airports and other transportation hubs and networks
• public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners

Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places.

Criminal activity occurs but violent crime is rare, including against foreigners.

You should, however, avoid secluded places or non-residential areas after dark. Locals have sometimes followed Westerners home after dark and then vandalized their parked vehicles. If you suspect you are being followed or you witness suspicious loitering, report it to the local police.

Ensure that your belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times.

Demonstrations

Demonstrations may occur.

Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Border crossings

Use only official border crossings when crossing from Iraq or Saudi Arabia into Kuwait. Kuwaiti officials consider other crossings illegal.

Armed guards patrol the borders. There have been recent exchanges of gunfire.

Women’s safety

Women have been physically and verbally harassed. Do not travel alone, especially after dark.

Advice for women travellers

Munitions and landmines

Unexploded munitions and landmines from the 1991 Gulf War pose hazards in rural areas, picnic spots, beaches and desert areas. Monitor children closely. Do not touch suspicious unfamiliar objects.

Weapons are readily available, and accidental shootings have occurred.

Public transportation

Use only officially marked taxis, and pre-negotiate fares.

Road safety

Accidents are common and due mainly to unsafe driving practices such as reckless driving. Exercise caution when driving after dark. Avoid off-road driving due to residual landmines.

Exercise caution if travelling by sea, including for recreational purposes, in the Gulf, particularly around the Abu Mousa, Greater Tunb and Lesser Tunb islands, as both Iran and the United Arab Emirates claim sovereignty over the islands.

Pirate attacks and armed robbery against ships occur in coastal waters. Mariners should take appropriate precautions.

Live piracy report  - International Maritime Bureau

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Kuwaiti authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date you expect to leave Kuwait.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Travel documents with an X in the "sex" field

The Kuwaiti authorities will deny you entry if your passport shows an X in the “sex” field or if it includes an observation to that effect.

Tourist visa: required Business visa: required Student visa: required

You can obtain a tourist visa upon arrival. If you need a business or student visa, you must get it at an embassy or consulate of Kuwait before arrival.

Arriving without a visa could lead to refused entry or a lengthy delay.

Canadians travelling with a regular passport can also get a tourist, business or visit visa online. You must present a copy of this visa for verification on arrival.

Apply for a tourist, business or visit visa  - Ministry of interior

Other entry requirements

A round-trip or onward travel ticket is required to obtain a transit visa.

Residence permit

The expiry date of a residence permit cannot exceed that of a passport. In order to ensure the longest possible permit validity period, renew your passport before your residence permit expires.

If you intend to work in Kuwait, you must obtain a certified criminal record check for each individual or dependent family member over the age of 18 who will be residing in the country.

You must have certified criminal record checks authenticated by Global Affairs Canada and by the Embassy of the State of Kuwait before travelling to Kuwait. You must do this no more than 3 months before arriving there.

Canadians who intend to work in Kuwait must also obtain a police clearance from Kuwait’s Ministry of Interior (MOI) upon their arrival. Visit the Embassy of Canada to Kuwait to obtain the letter required to apply for the MOI’s police clearance.

• Authentication of documents
• Foreign diplomatic missions and consulates in Canada

Regional travel

Canadians have been denied entry into Kuwait because their passports bore an Israeli visa or border stamp, or an Egyptian or Jordanian border stamp issued by an office bordering Israel (such a stamp would indicate entry from Israel).

Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children .

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

• Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
• COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

• There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

• Proof of vaccination is not required to enter this country.

Recommendation

• Vaccination is not recommended.

* It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada

There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.

Practise  safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

•  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
•  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
•  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

In this destination, rabies  may be present in some wildlife species, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. 

If you are bitten or scratched by an animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. 

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who will be working directly with wildlife. 

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Typhoid   is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.

Travellers visiting regions with a risk of typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation, should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.  

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Cases of locally-acquired   Middle East respiratory syndrome  (MERS) have been reported in this country.

MERS is a viral respiratory disease caused by the Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV).

Some people infected with MERS-CoV experience no symptoms, while others may experience mild flu-like or more severe pneumonia-like symptoms. About one-third of reported cases have result ed in death.

Eat and drink safely ,   and   avoid close contact with animals, especially camels. If you must visit a farm or market, make sure you practise good hygiene and  wash your hands  before and after contact with animals.

There is currently no licensed vaccine to protect against MERS.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•   washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Medical services and facilities

Modern medical care is available through government-run clinics and hospitals. Immediate cash payment is often required.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a   travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

The work week is from Sunday to Thursday.

You must carry an international driving permit.

In the event of an accident, do not attempt to move the vehicle, even if it impedes traffic. Kuwaiti law states that the driver must wait for the police to make an official report.

Digital cameras register traffic violations.

Authorities may hold suspects as well as witnesses to incidents for lengthy periods without access to legal counsel or consular officials. Even if access is granted, it may be severely limited by Kuwaiti authorities. Authorities may withhold the passport of an individual involved in legal processes, pending resolution of the case. This could result in the delay of a planned departure.

There is a zero-tolerance policy regarding drinking and driving. Consequences include heavy fines, imprisonment or deportation.

International Driving Permit

Penalties for possession, use and trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect heavy fines, lengthy jail sentences or even the death penalty. The possession of illegal drugs, even a very small amount, could result in arrest and imprisonment.

Possession and consumption of alcohol is illegal in Kuwait.

Alcohol cannot be legally purchased or imported into Kuwait, and the penalties associated with the possession of alcohol include heavy fines, imprisonment or deportation.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Illegal activities

Defamation of the emir, any member of the royal family or any local authority is prohibited.

Religious proselytizing is not permitted.

The import and consumption of pork products is illegal.  It is illegal to possess pornographic material.

Photography of government buildings and military or industrial sites, particularly oil fields, is forbidden. Don't photograph people without their permission.

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is not legally recognized in Kuwait.

If local authorities consider you a citizen of Kuwait, they may refuse to grant you access to Canadian consular services. This will prevent us from providing you with those services.

Travellers with dual citizenship

Fraudulent practices—for example, writing cheques without sufficient funds and non-payment of bills—are regarded as extremely serious offences and may result in imprisonment and fines.

Temporary release pending legal action may be granted in minor cases if the passport of the accused and the passport of the guarantor are surrendered to the authorities.

Dress and behaviour

Exercise common sense and discretion in dress and behaviour. Men and women should dress conservatively. Men must wear pants and a shirt in public.

It is uncommon for Western women to cover their head in Kuwait. Dresses and skirts are permitted, provided they cover the shoulders and knees. Shorts and short skirts are considered inappropriate.

Exercise particular care in your behaviour with others, especially officials, to avoid offending local sensitivities. Verbal insults and obscene gestures may be considered a criminal act and, if found guilty, you could face deportation, fines and/or a prison sentence.

Avoid physical contact, such as holding hands, in public.

In 2024, the lunar month of Ramadan is expected to begin on or around March 10.

In public, between sunrise and sunset, refrain from:

2SLGBTQI+ travellers

The laws of Kuwait prohibit sexual acts between individuals of the same sex.

2SLGBTQI+ travellers should carefully consider the risks of travelling to Kuwait.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

Family law matters, including child custody and divorce-related decisions, are settled according to Kuwait’s Marriage law, based on sharia (Islamic law). If you are involved in custody or other family disputes, consult a lawyer for advice on how religious law in Kuwait may affect your family situation.

Kuwait’s Marriage law

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. It does not apply between Canada and Kuwait.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Kuwait by an abducting parent:

• act as quickly as you can
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Kuwait to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre.

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country’s judicial affairs.

• International Child Abduction: A Guidebook for Left-Behind Parents
• Travelling with children
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Emergency Watch and Response Centre

The currency of Kuwait is the Kuwaiti dinar (KWD).

KWD is readily convertible to U.S. dollars.

Credit cards and U.S. dollars are widely accepted, and ATMs are available nationwide.

The rainy season extends from December to January and often results in flooding.

High levels of humidity and severe heat occur from June to September.

Severe sand and dust storms can occur throughout the year.

Local services

Dial 112 for emergency assistance.

Consular assistance

For emergency consular assistance, call the Embassy of Canada in Kuwait City and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

• English (EN)
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Is Kuwait Safe? Crime Rates & Safety Report

• Kuwait : Safety by City
• Kuwait City

Kuwait is a country located in the Middle East, at the head of the Persian Gulf, with Iraq to the north and west, and Saudi Arabia to the southwest.

Kuwait has an important cultural heritage and its capital, Kuwait City is well known for its contemporary architecture, of which may be the best known are striking Kuwait Towers.

It also boasts numerous museums and cultural landmarks: The Tareq Rajab Museum, for example, houses a rich collection of ethnographic artifacts and Islamic art.

It is an Arabian adventure of sorts, traveling to Kuwait.

Apart from enjoying the pleasant mix of culture and contemporary looks of the country as well as fine dining, Kuwait offers plenty of things to its visitors.

It boasts some of the Middle East’s most magnificent coastline: its beaches offer a fantastic view and a place to rest by its soothing waters and the beaches are filled with beach bars and parks.

• Warnings & Dangers in Kuwait

OVERALL RISK: MEDIUM

Kuwait is a safe place to travel to, the crime rates are fairly low and the possibilities of foreigners being harmed in any way or attacked are highly unlikely. However, what makes Kuwait a country with a reputation of being unsafe is terrorism risks.

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: HIGH

Bear in mind that hailing a taxi from the road is not recommended, particularly for women. There have been reports of passengers being harassed while doing so. Try to book a taxi in advance and use a reputable taxi company, or get to know a good taxi driver to drive you around Kuwait. Never try to drive yourself as driving standards in Kuwait are extremely poor.

PICKPOCKETS RISK: LOW

Petty crime is not common in Kuwait, but you should still exercise all basic precaution measures you would at home or in any other country.

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM

When it comes to weather and environmental hazards, sand and dust storms are common and flooding can occur occasionally. Since it's a Gulf state, Kuwait often experiences extremely high temperatures, so during the hottest months, the temperature regularly reaches as high as 50ºC, sometimes even higher.

MUGGING RISK: LOW

Violence towards foreigners is rare, so chances of getting mugged, attacked or kidnapped are low. However, you should avoid public gatherings or demonstrations of any kind as they can turn violent.

TERRORISM RISK: HIGH

Terrorists are likely to try to carry out attacks in Kuwait. Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places frequented by visitors. In June 2015, 27 people were killed, including foreigners and 227 people were injured in a terrorist attack during Friday prayers on a mosque in Kuwait during Ramadan.

SCAMS RISK: MEDIUM

Scams exist in Kuwait as much as in other destinations, so have your wits with you when interacting with locals. Double-check your change and negotiate everything in advance. Beware of young Arabs pretending to be the police. They often ask for documents like passports or civil IDs.

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: MEDIUM

It is recommended for women to avoid walking alone in isolated and poorly lit areas at night and to travel with a companion if possible. Since the beginning of 2007, there have been at least three attempted sexual assaults against foreign women in Kuwait City. Two of these assaults were committed by a person posing as a police officer.

• So... How Safe Is Kuwait Really?

Crime levels in Kuwait are very low, and violent crimes against travelers are extremely rare.

As a tourist, it is expected of you to respect local traditions, customs, laws, and religions at all times and be aware of your actions to make sure they do not offend other cultures or religious beliefs.

This applies particularly during the holy month of Ramadan or in religious areas.

Unless you have a death wish, stay away from driving yourself anywhere in Kuwait.

It is best that you hire a driver or find a good local taxi driver.

While the roads are good in Kuwait, the driving standards are poor and there is a general disregard for road rules and signals.

Kuwait has one of the highest traffic accident rates in the world.

Another issue in Kuwait when it comes to safety is the existence of unexploded munitions, including landmines in many rural areas, at beaches and recreational sites.

There have been reports of people being injured after picking up metal or plastic objects.

It is not recommended that you stray away from well-traveled roads and be aware that there is a danger of unexploded landmines even if an area has been officially cleared.

As for swimming in the sea off Kuwait City, it is not recommended, since there has been an incident where one of the main pumping stations in Kuwait City broke down and untreated sewage was released into the sea.

Even though the situation has been dealt with, it is still advisable to avoid swimming here.

• How Does Kuwait Compare?
• Useful Information

A visa is required by all visitors to Kuwait, except the residents of Gulf Cooperation Council countries, who have the right to enter and live in Kuwait without having to go through any particular formalities. All other countries can receive visas through the offices of Kuwait Airways. Your passport needs to be valid for at least six months from the date of receiving a visa. If you are not sure about your visa status, visit www.doyouneedvisa.com which will let you know whether or not you need a visa based on your nationality and the country you want to visit.

The Kuwaiti dinar is the official currency in Kuwait. ATMs are widespread throughout the country and credit cards widely accepted and used.

Kuwaiti summers (that lasts roughly from May to November) can be scorching hot, reaching as high as 50 degrees Celsius. Between November and April, the climate is pleasant, and it is probably the best time to visit Kuwait, with cool nights and warm sunny days. During winter, in December and January, night temperatures occasionally touch the freezing point.

Kuwait International Airport is located about 15.5 km south of Kuwait City. It is the only civil airport in Kuwait.

Travel Insurance

Just like anywhere else, we recommend getting travel insurance when traveling to Kuwait, since it covers not only the costs of medical problems but also theft and loss of valuables.

Kuwait Weather Averages (Temperatures)

• Average High/Low Temperature

Kuwait - Safety by City

• Where to Next?

52 Reviews on Kuwait

Kuwait is very safe to travel.

Its all bullshit, i am 26 years in kuwait and never heard of any terrorist attack 1 incident in june 2015.Trust me anyone can travel in public transport and taxis at amytime of the day amd I guarantee that there is zero risk. And Kuwait has nearly zero rape/crime rates google it. This page was written by somone that doesnt know a shit about kuwait.

Then you should be able to give guidance on how to come to kuwait, I’m from Africa Ghana precisely, but I’m non Muslim, I do not speak or understand Arab how possible,are there Africans there, I really want to visit Kuwait.

Hello, my friend, I am from Kuwait. All places, or 90% of the shops, know English. There are employees from Africa in coffee shops such as Arabica.. We don’t care what people’s religion is and we don’t ask them

Your wrong mate my girlfriend who is a maid had twice been raped by her employer why doing her job Kuwait I a country with many desperate men an rapist wouldn’t know how to treat a woman…. Next comment..??

I worked in kuwait for 15 years. It sucks. Too much trash and drugs. And rape is daily. Driving is nuts. So glad I left.

Kuwait Sucks!

I agree with you so much, I am a boy, so I have came across places which were poorly lit in my area, and have been molested heavily twice. One I could escape. It’s tough living there. I don’t recommend it at all. I am going to Canada with my parents. It’s got better reputation.

Trash abd drugs and rape ? Are you sure yu went to kuwait? Cuz there is nothing from what you said

rape is everywhere whenever you go in the world

Nice peacefull

I just got back ,and it is safer than London.

Kuwait is one of the safest countries around the world. There’s no terrorism in kuwait, it is very safe there. It is very hot over there, but the AC is literally every where except the distance between your car and your door.

like Miami! 🙂

Your sunniest days ever 🙂

Kuwait might be the safest country in the world. I left my car unlocked several times and didn’t lose a thing from it. Malls are nice. Heritage places and many landmarks are options to visit. Choose your travel date from October to April. Bargain whenever you can. Check reviews for your taxi’s company. Many points in this report are exaggerating single incidents to draw a negative overall review which is irrational.

Sir please this is my WhatsApp number ********* there’s something I want us to discuss pls

Kuwait is SO SAFE

I lived in Kuwait for about 14 years, I’ve never ever got scammed and taxis are great I like the transportation we had 1 terrorist attack for about 30 years and whoever wrote this dosen’t know anything about Kuwait, I really recommend you to visit Kuwait it’s preset cool.

Sir this is my whatsap number ****** I really want to know more about Kuwait I have the intention to visit Kuwait thank you

Extremely safe Kuwait Is Even at night no one dare to touch you

Nice, can I go there for work as a panel beater, and are dey do panel beater well over there.

I am afraid of going there for work

kuwait is so safe

Kuwait is a really nice country. I am Kuwaiti, and it’s a safe country u can google it. this report is full of lies. but I recommend it for everyone who wants to come to Kuwait for work or just a visit to stay inside Kuwait city or somewhere near to it I don’t recommend u to live in a place Kuwaitis don’t live in.

Can i get a job there as a forklift driver?

Kuwait could be a nice place, but the people are not good at all, they are racist. They don’t like some people. You must knowing whom I meant. Indians of course. I have lived there for half my life. Kuwaities are unfriendly to Asians… Its like they hate them.. ITS NOT A FRIENDLY COUNTRY at all……. And that is not gonna change either

Kuwait is a very racist country. Terrorist risk is bullshit and it won’t happen. But watch out for racist locals that think they’re top of the world just because of money.

So Please don’t visit here

that aint true

Umm u sure about dat? cuz u never been to kuwait before

he is totally right, horrible crimes happens just because of racist attitude and yes cuz of money. No terrorism exists

Just try to go there because lots of shops will offer you free things and kuwait is kind and not racist like u ..

RACISM is nt gonna change

Yes Kuwait is a country with racism…… Not doubt abt that… Coz I hv been there half my lifetime.. Even I have small connection with a Kuwaiti family….. Their children s attitude was so horrible…

Am Onyitex Sabah plss can someone take me to Kuwaiti am in Nigeria

Hello everyone am Onyitex Sabah, plss i love Kuwaiti country can someone come and take me to Kuwaiti am in Nigeria

Onyitex Sabah…don’t go to kuwait,you can only get a job as a maid there and you will get raped by the man of the house regularly…make your research

Kuwait is amazing and I have lived there all my life and never heard of rape happening here.

What I can say about Arabic countries is that it is not totally safe for woman mostly especially African though I won’t deny that there are some good people but the percentage is low

Kuwait travel ban

I have been hearing so much about Kuwait and, currently I and my family are planning on getting a visa for me but I got a news that Kuwait are not accepting people from different country. Please how true is this because I’m supposed to be processing my papers now. Thanks

Exaggerated .. Big time

Absolute exaggeration.

1 terrorist attack in something stupid like 30-40 years doesnt make it the risk HIGH.

What would you call cities like London? Super high? Or New York? MEGA high?

I agree with the roads, people cant drive for shit here, still better than some other places in the region (that aint saying much).

Even the temperatures are wrong. Its scorching hot from June to maybe end of August? If you are lucky, it gets better in September. Otherwise, temperature is great in spring and winter.

Natural disasters? Dust storms (duh) and flood once a year due to heavy rainfall during winter and it being a flat country.

I am from Kuwait (33 F) Regarding terrorism , it is defiantly not true. it happened once in our lives in and that was it. it is a very safe country. I can drive round anytime of the day and feel safe.

If you are going for work, especial as made you might have problems with the employers as some people are racist and dont know how to treat their employees. There are some rape cases that happend with maids and I ca not deny that but its not the most common.’

As for tourist, I think it would be one of the safest countries you will visit. the crime rate is very low but keep in mind that in summer the temperature is very high.

Kuwait is a really safe country...

this is all bullshit. Kuwait is a really safe country. And everyone knows that they need to be careful around poor areas. There is no terrorism, it only happened once. It didnt even affect foreigners. And yes there are some racist locals, but its not common. This article is so bias, everything that is written here is against Kuwait.

I call bullshit about terrorism its written by someone apparently never been in kuwait

Kuwait must be very cool

I will visit Kuwait soon, not far just some days from now

I Will Visit Kuwait, Eventualy.Kuwait Is GREAT!

I have really appreciate all I crossed here to the page of Kuwait I like Kuwait really to visit hopefully I will go as soon as possible because I saw them they are safe

Pls am planning moving to Kuwait to work …..am I saved pls?

kuwait is safe this article is a lie

this is exaggeration and a lie. how is 10 years ago terrorist attack make Kuwait high s?? o what do you call London or Paris or new York ??

this is not right Kuwait is one of the safest countries and you only have to worry about bad drivers.

kuwait is one of the safest country in the world for both gender women and men you dont have to speak arabic to go there you can speak english about terrorism that only happened once in kuwait so that doesnt make it high !!! there is alot of nice places you can visit there

Real Kuwait

Hello, I am Kuwaiti and I will talk about the lies in this report driving it is not good and not as bad as mentioned. As for terrorism, we have not seen any incident except only the one mentioned, which was only in 2015. The weather is very hot and December and January and February are the best but February is the best for tourism. In the end, Kuwait is a beautiful country and the people are very nice and you will see it from your arrival at the airport. (In every country there are bad people and areas that are not safe to choose the right place to stay in Kuwait City or around it near Kuwaitis.)

Can a traveler get a citizen girlfriend in Kuwait

Kuwait is more safe and preferable

Is it true that a foreigner can’t leave Kuwait with their Kuwait dinar

I say no to rape

All I can say is #WOW for real

What I as a lady will not take is you my boss rapping me all the time without a single free. It’s better I stay in my mother’s land than to become a slave in another land.

First of all, Kuwait is one of the safest countries in the world – for middle-class/rich people. I have never heard of anyone being robbed/mugged, there was ONE terrorist attack here, and the late Emir (RAA) was crying when he heard about it, it was so unusual. He (in his late 80s) went there without bodyguards to help rescue people. Sooo… yeah. However, it is the unfortunate truth that, if you are trying to work here as a maid, or other low-paying jobs, you will not be treated properly. There is a lot of discrimination against poor people. If you REALLY REALLY REALLY need to come here for work in a lower department, then (as a woman) wear a hijab (if you don’t already). Men generally have a lot of respect for Muslim women. Many maids do this to avoid improper treatment.

I really want to visits that county and work there is their any possible mean an of me going am from Africa Nigeria to be presize

Religion and cultre

I realy want to visit kuwait but am scared of their Religious practises becus am a Christian..

This article deserves a much higher rating.

Kuwait is one of the safest countries in the Middle East. I visited Qatar but then visited Kuwait. This time i felt much safer than Qatar. I’m from Ukraine and i used to feel much safer than in Kuwait. This time i’m going to Israel for my travels.

Kuwait is safe

As a Kuwaiti, this whole thing is a lie! Kuwait is very safe, my grandparents have been living there for almost their whole life and they have been perfectly fine, never been robbed, never been attacked, never been anything! Although there was ONE terrorist attack, doesn’t make it ‘unsafe’ People are very nice here, and the place is amazing!

Is a good place

if possible I want to go and work in Kuwait I’m from Sierra Leone west Africa

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Article Contents

• Overall Risk
• Transport & Taxis Risk
• Pickpockets Risk
• Natural Disasters Risk
• Mugging Risk
• Terrorism Risk
• Women Travelers Risk
• Weather Averages (Temperatures)
• User Reviews
• Share Your Experience

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The Do’s and Don’ts When Visiting Kuwait

Written by guest post, travel tips | destinations | kuwait | middle east.

A visit to Kuwait is always enjoyable. However, you are likely to experience a totally different culture compared to what you are used to in the United States. So even before starting your application for Kuwait visa for U.S citizens , you should be aware of things to do and what to avoid when visiting Kuwait.

Arabs are understanding people and never take offense on social blunders done out of ignorance. But you will be more welcome in the country if you adhere to their culture, and do things the local way. Besides, there are several rules that you should strictly follow to avoid offending not only the people but local authorities in Kuwait.

What's in This Article:

Mode of Dressing

When visiting Kuwait , you will notice there are two modes of dressing—one for Kuwaitis and another for visitors. Most Arab women are seen with traditional attire when outside the home. This means most of their body is covered from head to toe. Some Arab women also have their hands and face covered to protect women from unwanted attention. As a visitor, you are allowed to wear western outfits, but you must dress conservatively.

Arab men wear a thobe made from white cotton. The thobe (loose, ankle-length robe) is normally worn for all occasions. It is not a requirement for western men to wear the thobe. However, avoid sleeveless shirts and shorts while in Kuwait streets.

Customs for Hands and Feet in Kuwait

It is respectful to accept refreshments whenever offered, but always use your right hand when drinking and taking your meals. In Kuwait, it is considered unclean to use your left hand for eating and drinking.

Likewise, never show the soles of your shoes in Kuwait. This will imply that you regard other people as ‘dirt’, hence highly offensive in Kuwait. You, therefore, need to keep your feet flat on the ground—so no crossing your legs!

Invitations to Visit the Locals in Kuwait

You should always accept an invitation to an Arab home. This can be the best opportunity to learn more about Kuwait culture and avoid making mistakes in public. The Arab hosts will also be interested to know your views about the country. However, you should avoid making religious and political subjects matters of discussions—your opinions might be taken as offensive or ill-informed.

Other Dos and Don’ts When Visiting Kuwait

Here are a few additional things to keep in mind when visiting Kuwait :

• Don’t take any alcoholic drinks in public, or even offer the drink to an Arab, unless you are certain that he takes alcohol. Otherwise, this can be disrespectful.
• Don’t walk on a prayer mat, or stare at people when praying.
• Avoid entering a mosque without permission. Even if you ask for authorization, chances are you may not be allowed in.
• During Ramadhan, avoid eating, drinking or even smoking in public.

Click here for other articles on Wander about traveling in the Middle East .

This is a sponsored article. Wander With Wonder provides content ONLY from sponsors we believe can offer great service to our readers.

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Visit Kuwait

 get ready for an unforgetable journey in kuwait.

Kuwait is an amazing travel destination full of majestic traditions, nice beaches, tasty cuisine, ancient ruins, and rich culture.

Many things to discover and explore in Kuwait, and it can be overwhelming for visitors who are new to the region.

That’s why it’s important to find an experienced tour guide who can show you the best of the country and help you create an unforgettable journey., our job is to take you through the most iconic landmarks and attractions to uncover hidden gems off the beaten path. we’ll also provide tips and advice on how to select the best tour guide in kuwait for your group., discover kuwait.

We are specialized in Desert tours and Failaka island plus a lot of other places to visit in Kuwait, like Old Souk, Grand Mosque, and Traditional Museums.

Mubarakia Souk, is the oldest market in Kuwait.  The ambiance is unique and different from any other place in the world. You can feel the varieties of traditional food, crafts, Perfumes, and Spices there, Arabic, Persian, and Indian. The Grand Mosque is the largest mosque in Kuwait, Its area spans 45, 000 square meters. It's a place where you can watch the Islamic architecture and how many beautiful designs it has

 Tarek Rajab Museum houses one of the foremost collections of silver jewelry & fine collection of gold jewelry much of which dates from pre-Islamic times.  

KTG DMC can provide Any travel experience within Kuwait.

Our services provide travel experiences, But We can also provide a huge range of Destination Managment services that make the holiday planning experience a lot smoother.

 These include things like airport pickups and transfers, accommodation bookings, vehicle rental, catering or event management

  Some of our tours

Custom private kuwait sightseeing trip with local guide, failaka island tour in kuwait with a local guide, full day kuwait city & desert private tour with pickup & dropoff, kuwait desert & city half day private tour local licensed guide, kuwait food - local foodie adventure in kuwait, kuwait multi-day guided private tour with pickup and drop off, private kuwait airport and hotel transfer.

Kuwait is a fascinating destination with a rich cultural heritage and an array of exciting attractions to explore. But to make the most of your visit, it's essential to have a knowledgeable tour guide to show you around and provide insights into the country's history, traditions, and local way of life. With a professional tour guide in Kuwait, you'll discover hidden gems, taste delicious local cuisine, and experience the true essence of this captivating destination. So why not book a tour guide for your next trip to Kuwait and make unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime?

Kuwait Tour Guide

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How to Travel to Kuwait and Get a Kuwait Visa

I f you are a traveler who curious about exploring the Persian Gulf or the Middle East but struggling to find an accessible blend of the known and unknown, Kuwait – and particularly Kuwait City – may be the perfect place to begin your journey.

Nowadays, a Kuwait travel visa is incredibly easy to acquire for a large number of nationalities, including citizens of the United States, Canada, Australia, Japan, and all EU countries. The Kuwait visa is valid for one week. Before that expires, if you’d like to continue to explore Kuwait, you can apply for a Kuwait eVisa from the official government website.

Kuwait Visa

Kuwait is an oasis of the Persian Gulf, and should be considered as a destination for any bold adventurer

For these same countries eligible for a transit visa, this process only takes a few minutes; generally, if you’ve been accepted for a transit visa you will also be accepted through the eVisa application.

Be careful though; the process can take several days to complete, and you would not want to be caught in between visas because then, regardless of your pre-arranged plans, you’d likely be forced to leave until the new visa comes through. It is also possible to acquire a temporary driver’s permit in Kuwait if you meet the requirements, which can also be found on their government website.

Kuwait Road Trip

Then, you can do a road trip through Kuwait on the seven-day transit visa and enter a number of other countries along the Persian Gulf, depending on which direction you go: most popularly, the beautiful mountainous city of Tehran lies to the East, and the gargantuan skyscrapers of Dubai lie to the South.

This journey is not for the faint-hearted, as the cultural barriers are found to be debilitating, exhausting, and unnerving to many Westerners, especially if one decides to drive through the country into other parts of the region.

However, like many especially bold travel adventures, overcoming such limitations can make their reward doubly redeeming.

If one decides not to explore other countries and stay within the confines of Kuwait, a week on a transit can also be found to be a suitable amount of time to absorb the riches of the area: soak in the beaches, explore the metropolitan, Dubai-like Kuwait City, or explore the historical sites in the country that lie inland, outside of the big city and away from the Gulf.

Traveling to Kuwait: Getting There and Staying There

In addition to the seven-day transit visa, there is also a visa on arrival that travelers can seek upon entering Kuwait. It is only valid for 24 hours, but this can give a traveler a feel for the city, and ultimately lead them to the decision of whether traveling in the country, as well as the region as a whole, would be a good fit.

If indeed, they wish to explore the region, the transit visa is a convenient visa to obtain for many legal passport holders. If instead, the traveler would like to stay in Kuwait longer, they may also apply for a more long-term eVisa which grants them a ninety-day stay in the country.

The longer visa also grants them permission to leave and re-enter without having to re-apply for a visa. This can be great if one is looking to explore the rest of the region, or simply go somewhere else and return within ninety days.

Kuwait City Nightlife

When talking about Kuwait City nightlife, it is important to note that Kuwait is a dry country, meaning alcohol is not served legally anywhere in the country.

This, however, does not prevent people from having fun in the nighttime; if anything, it forces people to pursue different avenues of entertainment outside of alcohol. If you’re bored of going to a brand new place just to find yourself cooped up in some bar drinking a mediocre beer or an above-average cocktail, you may not be bothered by the lack of alcohol here.

There are still dozens of dance clubs to choose from, as well as metropolitan park areas and restaurants open late. Some of the nightclubs are so vast, extravagant, and opulent that on the inside, they appear to have a size more comparable to an amusement park.

They are known to have a layout similar to a mansion, with dozens of different areas to lounge and socialize, each with different atmospheres. Since Kuwait can have a particularly warm climate in the summertime, these party palaces usually come equipped with pools and even waterslides.

Things to do in Kuwait

In a similar vein of extravagance, there are alternatives, yet no less extravagant, sources of entertainment in Kuwait City in the form of outdoor theme parks, combining theatre, natural beauty, and general leisure all into one.

Kuwait’s Magical Fountain Park attracts a lot of tourists due to its wide walkways and well-constructed park atmosphere. This, of course, interestingly parallels the music blaring from the fountains within the park and the attendees enjoying its tunes.

The music will be an unfamiliar experience to Western ears unless they are familiar with the musical styles of this area. In short, the style usually consists of an upbeat rhythm, with connecting and underlying string instruments such as sitars and drum sounds uncommon in popular Western music.

The accompanying vocals are usually sung in a deep male voice in Arabic. But since many of the same music popular in the West is also popular in Kuwait, there is commonly a hybrid element of Western music in terms of tempo and melody.

Sometimes a lush cultural experience entirely different from your own can be most easily expressed in music, and this music fountain park thusly became a gravitating attraction to reflect on the uniqueness of Kuwait City.

If after a long night of this one grows tired of socializing, there is always the stunning Persian Gulf to walk along, with networks of gulf side walking paths to make the trek more serene.

Many places along the shores of Kuwait City, such as the highly recommend Al Kout, turns into a beach that is accessible at any hour of the day.

This beach has a unique atmosphere because on top of the beach sits these columns of bridges, making it look like you are sitting inside of a palace while at the same time relaxing on a beach.

Further, if one is still not tired of waterside attractions, there is also the Kobar Island nearby, a popular tourist attraction for those who want to feel surrounded by the azure gulf in the comforts of a total oasis.

Recommended Travel Resources

• Travel Insurance: World Nomads .
• Transport: CheapOAir and Skyscanner (Best Sites to Research Flight Prices) 
• Best Car Rental Deals: Rentalcars.com
• Best Sites to Find Hotel Deals: Hotels.com and Booking.com
• My Favorite Hotel Review Website: TripAdvisor
• Best Tours: Viator and Get Your Guide

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Kuwait: Home

• Traveling to Kuwait
• Culture & Religion
• Business & Industry
• History of Kuwait
• Politics & Government
• The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC)

State of Kuwait

Welcome to Bentley Library’s resource guide on the State of Kuwait. In this guide you will find resources on the Kuwaiti people, culture, business, religious and secular customs, as well as travel information. This information comes primarily from Bentley Library resources, but websites including business, government and military reports on various aspects of Kuwait are also linked.

Kuwait: Know Before You Go

Important travel information from bentley university.

Bentley Travel Policy ~ Bentley faculty, staff and students are periodically expected to travel on authorized business on behalf of the university in furtherance of its tax exempt mission. Find out the requirements for traveling abroad before you leave.

Bentley has provided support for all faculty and staff traveling on behalf of the University. Please refer to the Global Assistance Program , an on-call emergency medical and travel assistance provider.

Bentley University Police are on-call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You can contact them at 1. 781.891.2201; [email protected]

Kuwait International Travel Information

It is highly recommended you secure your entry visa to Kuwait in advance. Applications for an eVisa can be found  here .  Visas for U.S. citizens are also issued upon arrival at all Kuwaiti ports of entry.

General Requirements:

• Valid passport with a minimum of six (6) months prior to expiration date
• Two (2) completed current visa application forms
• Two (2) photographs
• Fee: U.S. passport $150.00 for single entry and $175.00 for multiple entries. Contact the embassy for other nationalities

Purpose of visit and additional requirements are as follows:

• BUSINESS VISITORS: Letter from U.S. firm requesting the issuance of a visa and guaranteeing the applicant while in Kuwait.
• VISITORS OF FRIENDS AND RELATIVES: Holding No Objection Certificates obtained by relatives/friend in Kuwait are not required to stamp visas in their passports by the Embassy.
• Government Contract: copy of Letter of Appointment from Kuwait.
• Private Sector: Work Permit issued by the General Department of Immigration Affairs in Kuwait. (If spouse or family members are accompanying applicant, Work permit, No Objection Certificate or Letter of Appointment must indicate that.)

PLEASE NOTE THE FOLLOWING:

• Permit to re-enter the United States is not a U.S. Passport. The Application for Travel Document needed for re-entry to the U.S. can be found here . More information can be found on the U.S. Citizenship & Immigration Services website.
• Passports sent by mail should include a pre-paid, self-addressed envelope (registered mail) for return.
• Fees should be paid by cash, money order or company check. PERSONAL CHECKS ARE NOT ACCEPTED.

CDC Travelers' Health Information

• Healthy Travel Packing List to Kuwait This list is general and may not include all the items you need. Check our Traveler Information Center for more information if you are a traveler with specific health needs, such as travelers who are pregnant, immune compromised, or traveling for a specific purpose like humanitarian aid work.
• Traveler Information Center Find general information about traveling abroad.
• Vaccines and Medicines - Kuwait Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need.

Kuwait: While You Are There

Food, language, etiquette, and dress.

Call to Prayer:   Prayer occurs 6 times a day. The call can be heard throughout the city being  broadcast via speakers on every mosque. Find out about the monthly prayer timings at  Prayer Times in Kuwait .

Currency:   Kuwaiti Dinar. Tipping is expected in Dinar.  Your Bentley program manager will provide tip money as necessary during your trip.

Currency exchange rates change daily. As of April 30, 2024 it is approximately 0.31 Kuwaiti Dinar (KWD) to 1.00 U.S. Dollar (USD), or 100 USD is equal to 30.78 KWD.

Dress for Meetings and Events:   Women do not need to cover their heads in Kuwait. Dress is always conservative. It is best to make sure shoulders/arms and legs are covered and clothing is not overly tight.

Food/Drink: 

• Alcohol is illegal in Kuwait. It is not available anywhere in the country.
• Pork is also against the law

Gift Giving

• Extended family or very close friends may exchange gifts for birthdays, Ramadan, Eid, Hajj and other celebratory occasions
• If you are invited to a Kuwaiti home, bring a houseplant, box of imported chocolates, or a small gift from your home country
• If a man must give a gift to a woman, he should say that it is from his wife, mother, sister, or some other female relative
• Do not give alcohol
• Gifts are not opened when received

Greetings:  

• Handshake. It is best to wait for the other person to extend their hand to you. Some people follow the practice that the right hand is seen as unclean, so they may extend their left hand (becoming less common).
• In all cases greetings are given with a sense of enthusiasm and general pleasure at meeting or seeing the person again
• Kuwaitis take time during the greeting process to converse about their health, family, mutual friends and acquaintances, and other general matters of interest

Business Meeting Etiquette

• Try to schedule meetings in the morning when meeting with government officials, since they are restricted to a 6-hour day.
• Many businessmen prefer to meet in the early evening.
• Do not try to schedule meetings in July and August as many Kuwaitis leave the country during the worst of the summer heat.
• Meetings may be interrupted if they interfere with prayer times.
• Meetings are generally not private unless there is a need to discuss matters confidentially.
• Expect frequent interruptions. Others may wander into the room and start a different discussion. You may join in, but do not try to bring the topic back to the original discussion until the new person leaves.

Commisceo Global Consulting Ltd. Kuwait - Language, Culture, Customs and Etiquette. www.commisceo-global.com. 1 Jan. 2020 https://commisceo-global.com/resources/country-guides/afghanistan-guide  

Living as an Expat

Advice about living in Kuwait is plentiful with several websites extolling the virtues of the high quality of life, low cost of living, and the friendly people. They also talk about the heat, which has been described as unbearable in the summer months when no one goes outside until the sun sets. Here are some websites that will help you understand the joys and pitfalls of living as an expat in Kuwait.

• American Creativity Academy -  Living and Working in Kuwait
• Culture Crossing Guide - Kuwait
• etiquette scholar -  Kuwaiti Dining Etiquette
• ExpatExchange -  Living in Kuwait by Joshua Wood
• InterNations -  A Comprehensive Guide on Moving to Kuwait
• LinkedIn -  Living and working in Kuwait  by saira munsif
• Schrole -  Everything you need to know about becoming an international teacher in Kuwait
• Teacher Horizons -  Quality of life for teachers in Kuwait
• Next: Traveling to Kuwait >>
• Last Updated: Apr 30, 2024 1:56 PM
• URL: https://libguides.bentley.edu/Kuwait

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UAE after the rains: Latest road status, travel updates and more

Uae weather.

• Environment

Take a look at the latest weather updates and advisories from across the UAE

Heavy rain lashed the UAE on Thursday morning, but cloud cover has since significantly receded. The National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) says the unstable weather was caused by an extension of low pressure from the Red Sea, along with humid south-easterly winds, which caused rain clouds to migrate from Saudi Arabia towards the UAE.  Will it rain on Friday? NCM expert explains what to expect over the weekend.

Here are the latest updates from across the UAE.

Taking E16 from Dubai to Hatta? Check this update

In response to a commuter's inquiry, the RTA advised that the E16 bus route from Dubai to Hatta is currently suspended.

Here are your alternative options:

• Take bus route H02 from Dubai Mall to Hatta Bus Station.
• For a smoother journey, planning your trip in advance is recommended. You can do this using: The S'hail app
• The RTA journey planner on their website.

This information is according to the RTA.

Abu Dhabi replants trees damaged by recent weather

Abu Dhabi City Municipality replanted trees affected by recent weather and maintained public and recreational facilities.

Abu Dhabi: Al Mina Street reopens to Corniche Street exit

Abu Dhabi Police announce Al Mina Street reopened towards Corniche Street exit via Sheikh Zayed Tunnel. Drive safely!

Dubai marine services resume rormal operations after rain

Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) announces that marine services are back to normal operations following a day of heavy rains across the country. Read more

Abu Dhabi Police announce traffic diversion

Abu Dhabi Police have announced a traffic diversion from Al Mina Street to Corniche Street exit via Sheikh Zayed Tunnel, following a day of heavy rains that lashed different parts of the country.

Intercity buses are fully operational

Dubai’s Roads, and Transport Authority (RTA) posted on X that Intercity Bus services are back to normal after it was temporarily suspended due to the adverse weather conditions .

DXB returns to normal operations

Dubai International Airport (DXB) has returned to normal operations this afternoon, following disruptions caused by unsettled weather.

Dubai's beaches, parks reopen

As Dubai swiftly rebounded from recent weather fluctuations, public beaches, dubai public parks, and markets affiliated with Dubai Municipality are open again.

In a post on X, the municipality said "Dubai's beaches, public parks and markets managed by Dubai Municipality are reopening to welcome you according to ther regular working hours."

Reminder: Extended Dubai Metro timings

To facilitate travel to and from Dubai International Airport, the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has extended Dubai Metro operating hours today, Thursday, May 2nd. Trains will run from midnight 12am until 5am the following morning.

Follow safety instructions to prevent vehicle fires

Dubai Police urge drivers to adhere to safety guidelines to lower the chances of vehicle fires, particularly in waterlogged areas.

Ras Al Khaimah road collapse

Ras Al Khaimah: Emirates Road heading to the Al Shuhadaa (Martyrs) Street exit in Ras Al Khaimah caved in on Thursday afternoon following heavy rains .

RTA enhances safety measures

Due to the current unstable weather conditions in Dubai, RTA is stepping up its efforts to ensure your safety on the roads.

Look: Traffic flow resumes in Abu Dhabi

In pictures: Abu Dhabi reports normal traffic flow following rainfall in the emirate.

Dubai ferry services temporarily suspended

RTA announces temporary disruptions to Dubai Ferry routes due to UAE weather conditions. See list of affected routes below.

➡ Al Ghubaiba - Marina Mall (in both directions)

➡ Dubai Water Canal - Al Ghubaiba (in both directions)

➡Dubai Water Canal - Bluewaters (in both directions)

➡Bluewaters - Marina Mall (in both directions)

➡Al Ghubaiba - Sharjah Aquarium (in both directions)

Watch: Ajman beefs up patrols during heavy rain

Ajman Police have intensified their presence on various internal and external roads of the emirate, to deal with the heavy rains and provide assistance to the public.

Sharjah suspends intercity bus services

Sharjah announces the temporary suspension of its intercity bus service, due to the prevailing unstable weather conditions. Sharjah's RTA has informed the public that updates on the service resumption will be communicated through official channels.  

Dubai suspends buses to other emirates

The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) of Dubai has suspended intercity bus services to Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, and other emirates.

On Guard 24/7: Dubai Police ensure safety

Watch : Dubai's dedicated police officers, armed with diverse expertise, are committed to around-the-clock public safety.

Dubai-Sharjah bus service temporarily suspended

The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) of Dubai announced the temporary suspension of intercity bus services between Dubai and Sharjah on Thursday due to the heavy rain brought on by the weather situation.

Dubai Metro operating in both directions now: RTA

Dubai Metro is operating on the Red line in both directions without stopping at the following stations: ONPASSIVE, Equiti, Al Marsheq and Energy.

Speed limits back to normal on key roads

Abu Dhabi Police have stated that speed limits on Abu Dhabi's external roads are back to normal.

Ajman Police ensure smooth traffic flow

The Ajman Police General Command has prepared all resources to manage the event, ensuring the safety of lives and the smooth flow of traffic on the roads. This ensures readiness to face challenges and swift recovery from any consequences.

Residents advised to avoid beaches and valleys

Ajman Police urge the public to exercise caution and vigilance during rainfall. Stay away from areas with accumulated water, beaches, valleys, and torrents.

Dubai Airports cancels 13 flights

Dubai International Airport (DXB) confirmed a total of 13 flights were cancelled Thursday morning. Moreover, five inbound flights were diverted overnight. Passengers departing from Dubai's airports have been advised to allocate additional time for their journey to the airport, as road congestion may be anticipated.

Look: Dubai tackles rain impact

Dubai authorities deployed teams from the Municipality, RTA, and Police to minimise rain disruptions on city streets. Images show their efforts in action. Read more

RTA suspends intercity bus services until further notice

Intercity bus services between Dubai have been suspended until further notice due to unstable weather conditions, Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has announced on X. RTA advised commuters to follow social media channels for further updates regarding the service resumption.

Plan ahead: Travel advisory issued

Air Arabia advises passengers flying from Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and Ras Al Khaimah to plan for additional travel time to the airport due to weather conditions. The airline also recommends updating contact information in bookings to receive the latest flight updates.

Several Dubai flights cancelled amid heavy rainfall

Adverse weather conditions across the UAE are impacting flights to and from Dubai on May 2. Passengers can expect delays, diversions, and cancellations.

Emirates Airlines has announced reduced flight operations at Dubai Airport due to the weather. Passengers flying into or out of Dubai on May 2nd should be prepared for potential delays and rescheduling. The following Emirates flights have been cancelled for May 2:

EK 123/124: Dubai - Istanbul

EK 763/764: Dubai - Johannesburg

EK 719/720: Dubai - Nairobi

EK 921/922: Dubai - Cairo

EK 903/904: Dubai - Amman

EK 352/353: Dubai - Singapore (EK353 departs May 3rd at 12:50 AM)

UAE urges caution: Follow safety instructions

The National Center of Emergency Management and Crisis (NCEMA) encourages the public to strictly follow all instructions and guidelines issued by relevant authorities for the safety of lives and property.

Watch: Waterlogging hits Abu Dhabi streets after heavy rainfall

See: Waterlogging on the streets in some parts of Abu Dhabi as rains hit the UAE. Heavy rain and thunderstorms hit Abu Dhabi early on Thursday morning.

Dubai Police issue guidelines

Dubai Police issued guidelines, stating: "Let's work together to ensure everyone's safety during rainy weather conditions by following the necessary guidelines on the road, at work, and at home."

Sharjah medical fitness centers closed today

The Sharjah City Municipality announces the closure of medical fitness centers on Thursday, May 2, due to the weather conditions, out of its concern for the safety of the public.

Watch: Cloudy skies over Dubai this morning

Heavy cloud cover greeted parts of Dubai on Thursday morning. The NCM issued an amber alert across the country, indicating rain-bearing clouds had covered most areas.

Drivers alert: Jebel Ali hit by strong morning winds

Jebel Ali experienced strong winds early Thursday morning. Expect occasional strong winds, especially near cloud formations, which could cause reduce visibility on roads. The NCM warns motorists driving during this time to be cautious of reduced visibility.

Watch: Heavy rains and strong winds hit Sharjah early today

Rta prepares for unstable weather: issues safety tips.

The Dubai Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) is prepared to handle upcoming weather conditions and maintain smooth traffic flow. In a recent post on X, the RTA urged drivers to "adhere to the guidelines while driving your vehicle during the prevailing weather" for everyone's safety. They have also shared additional safety tips on their website for your reference.

Flying from Sharjah? Check early arrival times

Sharjah Airport advises travellers to arrive at the airport 3 hours before their departure time due to weather conditions and to check with the airline companies on their flight updates.

Watch out for revised speed limits on Abu Dhabi roads

1. Sheikh Tahnoon Bin Mohammed Road:  Speed Limit Reduced to 100 km/h on Sheikh Tahnoon Bin Mohammed Road (Al Saja - Masakin).

2. Abu Dhabi - Al Ain Road: Speed Limit Reduced to 100 km/h on Abu Dhabi - Al Ain Road (Complex Bridges - Al Wathbah).

3. Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Road: New 100 km/h Speed Limit on Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Road Sheikh Zayed Bridge - Al Bahyah).

4. Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Road:  Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Road Speed Change: New Limit 100 km/h (Yas - Al Saadiyat).

5. Al Khaleej Al Arabi Road : Speed Limit Reduced to 100 km/h on Al Khaleej Al Arabi Road (Musaffah Bridge - Abu Dhabi).

6. Abu Dhabi-Al Ain Road:  Speed Limit Reduced to 100 Km/h on Abu Dhabi-Al Ain Road (Al Mahawi - Al Sad)

Distance learning

Following an advisory by the National Emergency, Crisis and Disaster Management Authority (NCEMA), schools and colleges will be implementing distance learning today and tomorrow.

Work from home advised

Both government and private organisations have been urged to consider remote work. This, however, will not apply to those who are required to be physically present at work or be involved in potential response and recovery efforts.

Airport advisory

Dubai International (DXB) and Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC), have urged passengers to avoid delays due to possible road congestion, utilise smart apps for real-time traffic updates and consider using theDubai Metro. Emirates also advised passengers with travel plans today to arrive early. flydubai also advised passengers to allow extra time for their journey to DXB.

Dubai Metro timings extended

Dubai Metro operating hours have been extended from 12am to 5am. Trains will depart from Centrepoint Metro Station and will only stop at Emirates Metro Station, Airport Terminal 1, Airport Terminal 3 and GGICO stations.

Police advisory for bikers

Abu Dhabi Police have called upon delivery bike riders to avoid riding in volatile weather conditions.Police has called on delivery bicycle drivers to commit to the need to stop transportation and delivery services during volatile weather conditions.

Residents alerted

Dubai Municipality, Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (Dewa) and other departments have alerted residents about various precautionary measures they should take amid unstable weather conditions. The Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure has shared its preparedness measures in ensuring the safety of infrastructure, roads and dams.

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