Table of Contents
Introduction
Nestled against the Persian Gulf, Kuwait is an oasis of culture and diversity in the Arabian Peninsula. Though small in size, Kuwait has a rich history dating back thousands of years and was once a stop on the ancient Silk Road trading route. Today the country boasts glistening skyscrapers, bustling souks, traditional dhow boats, and windswept desert vistas. Whether you’re drawn by the warm hospitality of its people, the modern allure of Kuwait City, or the chance to experience authentic local culture, Kuwait promises an eye-opening adventure.
Reasons to Visit Kuwait
From breathtaking mosques to lively bazaars, Kuwait entices visitors with its distinctive sights, sounds, and flavors. Immerse yourself in centuries of tradition and make new discoveries around every corner.
Culture and Traditions
Islam and Bedouin customs permeate daily life in Kuwait. Get a fascinating look into local culture by visiting historic mosques, exploring traditional neighborhoods, and meeting local families. Watch as men greet each other with warm nose-to-nose touches, visit bustling souks redolent with frankincense, and learn about Kuwait’s pearl diving heritage.
Architecture and Landmarks
Marvel at Kuwait’s modern skyscrapers and malls, as well as traditional mudbrick architecture and ornate doors depicting symbols of welcome. Don’t miss the iconic Kuwait Towers, Liberation Tower, and Grand Mosque. Wander through old districts like Sharq and Asimah for a glimpse of historic homes and shops.
Food
Tuck into hearty Kuwaiti dishes like machboos (spiced rice and meat), margogat beans stew, and fresh seafood pulled from the Persian Gulf that morning. Sip Arabic coffee and nibble dates, pastries, and dried limes. At night, join locals in lively open-air restaurants serving flavorful fare under strings of colored lights.
Shopping
Haggle for deals in Kuwait’s bustling bazaars, known as souks. Look for handicrafts, spices, incense, jewelry, perfumes, and traditional clothing. Luxury malls also offer top international brands. Don’t forget to pick up Kuwaiti dates and dried limes as tasty edible souvenirs.
Outdoor Activities
Venture beyond the city to experience Kuwait’s natural wonders. Ride a camel at sunset in the desert, go rock climbing or hiking, and take a dhow boat cruise to Failaka Island. Brave watersports enthusiasts can also try windsurfing, kitesurfing, and kayaking in the turquoise gulf waters.
Kuwait City
Gleaming high-rises intersect with historic sites and colorful bazaars in Kuwait’s capital. Get acquainted with traditional life and modern amenities during your stay.
Attractions
Top sights include the Grand Mosque, Tareq Rajab Museum, Sadu House, Kuwait Towers, Liberation Tower, Scientific Center, and various cultural centers spotlighting Islamic art and antiquities. Don’t miss strolling by the Persian Gulf and visiting the Fish Market.
Accommodations
Choose from international hotels like JW Marriott, Hilton, and Radisson Blu or smaller boutique lodgings. Furnished apartments are popular with long-term visitors. Stay in the city center for easy access to attractions.
Getting Around
Taxis, buses, and rental cars make navigating Kuwait City straightforward. Many sites are walkable in central districts. Uber and Careem offer rides similar to taxis. Have your hotel concierge write directions in Arabic to show drivers.
Other Major Cities
Beyond Kuwait City, explore Failaka Island and other historic towns across the governorates.
Failaka Island
Just 20 km from Kuwait City, this island combines beachfront activities with archaeological sites dating back to the Bronze Age. Don’t miss Al-Zor House and Failaka Heritage Village.
Al Ahmadi
Visit the first-ever Kuwaiti oil well and learn about the country’s oil industry at the Oil Display Center. This town also has a popular bird sanctuary.
Wafra Farms
Tour Kuwait’s largest fruit and vegetable farm, sprawling over 7,500 acres and producing over 250 varieties. Visitors can pick fresh produce, buy goods, and enjoy activities.
Mutla Ridge
See dramatic cliffs, caves, and rare wildlife at this protected ridge spanning 50 km of coastline. Hiking and camping are popular.
Kabad Beach
Relax on sandy beaches, take an island cruise, or enjoy watersports at this scenic area with chalets and seaside parks.
Culture and Traditions
Experience the warmth and generosity of Kuwaiti culture. Gain insight into local customs to make the most of your visit.
Islam and Daily Life
Islam shapes Kuwait’s cultural identity, from the call to prayer heard five times daily to dietary customs and weekend days. Kuwaitis are predominantly Sunni Muslim. Respect religious practices during your stay.
Importance of Family
In Kuwait’s collectivist society, loyalty and responsibility to family come first. Visiting relatives frequently is the norm. Expect close-knit, multigenerational families.
Gender Roles and Norms
Traditional gender roles see Kuwaiti men as providers and women as homemakers. Public displays of affection between the sexes are taboo. Honor local norms by dressing conservatively.
Etiquette Tips
Greet others with “as-salāmu ʿalaykum” (“Peace be upon you”). Use your right hand for eating and greeting. Avoid public criticism and impatience. Honor hosts’ generosity. Ask before photographing people.
Kuwaiti Cuisine
Tantalize your taste buds with Kuwaiti food culture. Traditional dishes showcase local flavors and ingredients.
Staple Dishes
Daily fare includes machboos (chicken/meat and rice), margogat stew, and goumash (lentils and rice). Breakfast features balaleet (sweet vermicelli) and khameer (puffed dough).
Local Ingredients
Dishes incorporate dates, dried limes, spices like saffron and cardamom, fresh Gulf seafood, and lamb/chicken.
Where to Find Authentic Food
For genuine Kuwaiti food, dine at old cafes in Souq Mubarakiya, restaurants near the Fish Market, or family homes.
Shopping in Kuwait
Shopping is a beloved pastime in Kuwait. Find authentic crafts, Kuwaiti goods, high-end fashions, and modern malls.
Souks and Bazaars
Kuwait’s traditional markets offer handicrafts, incense, spices, gold, textiles, and household goods. Don’t miss Souq Al Mubarakiya, Souq Al-Deira, and Friday Market.
Malls and Boutiques
For top global brands, visit prestige malls like Avenues, 360 Mall, and Marina Mall. Smaller boutiques have unique clothing and homewares.
Items to Buy
Look for dried limes, incense, spices, dates, honey, handicrafts, textiles, jewelry, and perfumes. Kuwaiti dates and dried limes make tasty edible gifts.
Outdoor Activities
Escape the city to experience Kuwait’s striking desert and coastal landscapes. Popular activities range from dune adventures to watersports.
Water Sports
Waterski, wakeboard, kayak, snorkel, and scuba dive in warm Persian Gulf waters. Kite surfing is popular at local beaches.
Desert Safaris
Join thrilling jeep, ATV, or camel rides into Kuwait’s desert expanses. Camp under starry night skies. See amazing sunrises and sunsets.
Hiking and Rock Climbing
Scale limestone cliffs and hike through wadis (dry riverbeds) at scenic areas like Mutla Ridge. Guided treks available.
When to Visit Kuwait
Kuwait’s climate has scorching summers and pleasant winters. Time your travels with weather and events in mind.
Seasonal Considerations
Visit in spring (March-May) or fall (October-December) for comfortable weather ideal for sightseeing. Summers are extremely hot (record highs around 50°C!).
Events and Festivals
Attend late fall/early winter festivals like Quran Recitation Competition, Hala February festival, or National Day celebrations (November 25-December 1).
Getting to Kuwait
Most visitors fly into Kuwait City’s International Airport (KWI) or drive from Saudi Arabia. Both options are straightforward.
Flying into Kuwait City
Direct flights serve KWI from major hubs across Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. Air Arabia, Jazeera Airways, Kuwait Airways and Middle East Airlines offer regional services.
Land Crossings from Saudi Arabia
The fastest route is Highway 95 from Dammam, taking around 90 minutes. Have papers ready at the border and dress conservatively.
Getting Around Kuwait
Enjoy flexible transport via modern highways, cheap taxis, and domestic air links. Rental cars allow maximum freedom.
Public Transportation
Buses and shared microbuses provide affordable connections between Kuwait City and other governorates. Separate women’s seating areas available.
Taxis
Inexpensive taxis run 24/7. No meters – agree on the fare beforehand. Most drivers only speak Arabic. Have your destination written down.
Rental Cars
For flexibility, rent a car with companies like Avis, Budget or Sixt. Drive on the right. Watch for camels crossing highways!
Accommodations
Choose from convenient hotels or immerse yourself in local culture by staying in a furnished apartment.
Hotels
Western brands like Hilton, Sheraton, and Marriott offer amenities like pools and spas. Local hotels provide plush rooms and excellent service.
Apartments
For longer stays, rent affordable, fully equipped apartments through sites like Airbnb and booking.com. Expats routinely list their spare apartments.
Airbnbs
Authentic homes and apartments available through Airbnb provide living-like-a-local stays. Select places with stellar reviews.
Safety Tips for Travelers
Use common sense precautions and avoid political gatherings to remain safe in Kuwait. Dress modestly, learn cultural norms, and travel with licensed tour operators when possible. Stay vigilant about scams targeting tourists.
Conclusion
From sparkling coastal vistas and waving desert sands to pearl diving history and bustling souks, Kuwait promises an eye-opening escape into Arabian heritage and hospitality. Savor aromatic cuisine under starry skies, join convivial gatherings in traditional diwaniyas, and tour architectural marvels old and new to experience the best of the Middle East’s hidden gem. Let Kuwait’s warmth, spirit, and surprises capture your imagination and heart.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time of year to visit Kuwait?
The most comfortable weather for sightseeing falls between October and May. Kuwait’s summers are extremely hot, with temperatures exceeding 50°C at times, so are best avoided. Spring and autumn offer warm days without excessive heat.
What should I wear during my trip?
Dress conservatively by covering shoulders and knees when visiting mosques and other religious sites. Women might feel most comfortable wearing loose pants or skirts below the knee, blouses with sleeves, and a headscarf.
What are the top 3 things to do in Kuwait?
Don’t miss seeing Kuwait’s top sights like the Grand Mosque, Kuwait Towers, Liberation Tower, Sadu House cultural museum, Mutla Ridge, and the traditional bazaars known as souks. Haggling for deals under billowing tent roofs is a quintessential Kuwaiti experience.
What documents do I need to enter Kuwait?
Your passport must be valid for at least 90 days beyond the length of your stay. Many nationalities can obtain a Kuwaiti visa on arrival, while others need to apply at their local Kuwaiti embassy or consulate before traveling.
How do I get around Kuwait?
Taxis are inexpensive and ubiquitous in Kuwait City, making getting around a breeze. For travel between cities and sites, a rental car allows maximum flexibility. Drivers must be at least 21 years old and have an International Driving Permit.