Kuwait

Kuwait is a small Gulf country where oil wealth meets tradition. Kuwait City blends sleek towers with historic sites like the Grand Mosque and the old souk at Al-Mubarakiya. The Kuwait Towers overlook the Arabian Gulf, while museums like the Tareq Rajab and the Kuwait National Museum explore the country’s past. Outside the capital, desert landscapes stretch wide, dotted with Bedouin camps and oil fields. Kuwaiti cuisine draws from Persian, Indian, and Arabian flavors, with seafood and rice dishes as staples. Though quieter than its neighbors, Kuwait offers a glimpse into Gulf life with depth, dignity, and hospitality.

Kuwait isn’t built for tourists, and that’s part of what makes it interesting. It’s not trying to entertain you, it’s just being itself. If you like that kind of travel, you’ll find something real here. Having been the focus of the first Gulf War in 1991, the country has escaped the violence of the more recent war in its neighbor Iraq and remains a mostly safe destination for tourists and more frequently, business people. Budget travelers though are likely to find Kuwait an expensive shock to the system.

Kuwait is one of the Gulf’s most understated countries, often overlooked in favor of flashier neighbors, but quietly fascinating for those who make the stop. Most visitors begin in Kuwait City, where sleek skyscrapers rise above traditional souks, museums, and seaside promenades. The iconic Kuwait Towers overlook the Arabian Gulf and have become a national symbol. The Grand Mosque, open to non-Muslim visitors on guided tours, offers a glimpse into the country’s religious architecture. For history buffs, the Tareq Rajab Museum and Kuwait House of National Works document Kuwait’s pre-oil heritage and the 1990 Iraqi invasion. While there’s no ancient Petra or Dubai-style flash, Kuwait rewards slow exploration with culture, contrast, and hospitality.

Kuwait is expensive, even by Gulf standards. Hotels, taxis, and restaurants are priced similarly to those in major Western cities. There are few budget accommodations, and public transport is limited, so most travelers rely on ride-hailing apps or private cars. The food scene, though, is a highlight, Kuwaitis love to eat out, and you’ll find everything from high-end international dining to fantastic shawarma, grilled meats, machboos (spiced rice with meat), and fresh seafood. Alcohol is completely banned, so don’t expect a nightlife scene, locals socialize over food, coffee, and long meals instead.

Getting around is easiest by car or app-based taxis like Careem. The city sprawls, and public buses exist but aren’t tourist-friendly. English is widely spoken, especially in hotels, malls, and by younger Kuwaitis, though Arabic is the official language. Kuwait is considered very safe, with low crime and a generally relaxed atmosphere, though conservative social norms still apply, modest dress and respectful behavior are expected.

Why Go to Kuwait?

• Kuwait City’s Skyline & Towers: Visit the iconic Kuwait Towers, stroll the Corniche, and take in Gulf views from a more subdued urban backdrop.
• Grand Mosque Tours: Take a guided tour of the Grand Mosque, a peaceful, architecturally striking place open to all respectful visitors.
• Souks & Local Life: Wander Souq Al-Mubarakiya, one of the oldest in the region, where you can try dates, spices, and traditional snacks.
• Museums & Modern History: Learn about the country’s past at the Tareq Rajab Museum or the emotional House of National Works memorializing the 1990 invasion.
• Kuwaiti Cuisine & Café Culture: Savor dishes like machboos, mutabbaq samak (rice with fish), and Arabic desserts, food is a central part of social life.
• Island Day Trips: Visit Failaka Island for Greek ruins and reminders of war, or escape to Kubbar Island for snorkeling and picnicking in summer.
• Quiet Gulf Experience: Enjoy a more laid-back version of Gulf life, less glitz, more authenticity, and a slower pace.

Start in Kuwait City, the capital and nearly the whole show. The skyline is modern but not over-the-top, with the iconic Kuwait Towers still standing as a national symbol. Climb one for views over the Gulf and the city, especially at sunset. The Grand Mosque nearby is open to respectful visitors on guided tours, its size and understated design make it one of the Gulf’s more graceful religious buildings.

For a sense of Kuwait’s history, the Tareq Rajab Museum (and its neighboring Calligraphy Museum) is a must. Tucked away in a quiet suburb, it holds a private collection of Islamic art, jewelry, and ethnographic items that tell the story of the region better than any national museum. That said, the Kuwait National Museum is slowly being revived and includes the Al Sadu House, where you can learn about Bedouin weaving traditions.

The Souq Al-Mubarakiya, in the heart of the old city, is the best place to see local life. It’s part market, part social hangout, with spices, perfumes, gold, and cheap eats. Sit down for grilled fish or machboos and people-watch in the shade.

Along the coast, the Scientific Center features one of the largest aquariums in the Middle East, plus a small IMAX and dhow harbor. Families love it. Nearby, the Marina Crescent is a polished waterfront area with cafes and shopping. For a slower vibe, the Failaka Island, once a Greek outpost and later occupied by Iraqi forces, is accessible by ferry, its ruined buildings and quiet beaches make for a sobering day trip.

In the desert, Al Jahra and the Mutla Ridge offer small hiking spots and viewpoints, nothing dramatic, but a good reminder that Kuwait is more than coast and city. Time it for winter or early spring if you want to avoid the extreme heat.

Highlights

• Kuwait Towers – Iconic symbols of modern Kuwait, offering city and sea views.
• Souq Al-Mubarakiya – A traditional market that still feels real, not rebuilt.
• Tareq Rajab Museum – A private treasure trove of Islamic art, jewelry, and calligraphy.
• Grand Mosque of Kuwait – The country’s largest mosque, open for guided visits and cultural understanding.
• Failaka Island – A Gulf island with archaeological ruins, war-torn buildings, and eerie stillness.

Top Cities & Towns

• Kuwait City – The capital and cultural center, where most of the country’s life and landmarks sit.
• Al Jahra – A desert town with small historical sites and a more rural pace.
• Salmiya – A coastal neighborhood known for shopping, expat life, and the Scientific Center.
• Fahaheel – A southern town with a large mall, markets, and a more local vibe.
• Subiyah – A growing area near the northern causeway, more known for infrastructure than tourism (yet).

Nature & Outdoor Adventure

• Failaka Island – Beaches, old forts, and ruins from both Greek and Gulf War eras.
• Mutla Ridge – A low desert escarpment offering views and desert solitude.
• Green Island – A man-made island off Kuwait City’s coast with gardens and walking trails.
• Al Shaheed Park – A downtown green space with walking paths, museums, and modern landscaping.
• Kuwait Bay – Birdwatching, boating, and slow coastal drives.

Historical & Cultural Sites

• Tareq Rajab Museum – Possibly the most fascinating museum in the country, with Islamic artifacts collected over decades.
• Souq Al-Mubarakiya – A living piece of pre-oil Kuwait, with traditional shops and street food.
• Grand Mosque – An elegant place of worship that welcomes non-Muslim visitors through guided tours.
• Failaka Island – Archaeological remains from the Dilmun civilization, plus scars from the Iraqi occupation.
• Al Qurain Martyrs House – A small, powerful museum dedicated to Kuwaiti resistance during the 1990 invasion.

Unique Experiences

• Drink tea in the souq – Find a shaded corner in Al-Mubarakiya and just observe life unfold.
• Take the ferry to Failaka – Walk among ruins, wild donkeys, and silent coastlines.
• Explore Islamic art privately – The Tareq Rajab Museum offers a depth rarely found in public collections.
• Climb the Kuwait Towers – Yes, it’s touristy, but the view and retro interior are worth it.
• Visit Al Shaheed Park at night – Locals come to walk, chat, and escape the city heat under the lights.

In the capital, Kuwait City, the iconic Kuwait Towers stand as a symbol of the country’s modernization, offering panoramic views over the city and the Arabian Gulf. The city’s Grand Mosque, one of the largest in the region, showcases Islamic architecture at its finest, while the Kuwait National Museum offers insight into the country’s rich heritage and history.

Beyond the city, Kuwait offers scenic coastal experiences, with its long stretches of beaches along the Arabian Gulf, perfect for a relaxing day by the water. Failaka Island, accessible by boat, is home to ancient ruins dating back to Greek and Mesopotamian times, providing a historical escape. For shopping enthusiasts, the luxury malls in Kuwait City, such as The Avenues, offer high-end boutiques, gourmet dining, and entertainment. The country is also known for its vibrant food scene, with traditional dishes like machboos (a spiced rice dish) and fresh seafood often featured in local restaurants.

Don’t Miss Activities

Visit the Kuwait Towers: These iconic water towers overlook the Gulf and offer panoramic views of Kuwait City from their observation deck and revolving restaurant.

Explore the Tareq Rajab Museum: A private museum housing a world-class collection of Islamic calligraphy, ceramics, jewelry, and manuscripts , tucked away in suburban Jabriya.

Walk the Corniche and Marina Crescent: A seaside promenade with cafes, walking paths, and views of the skyline , great for sunsets, exercise, and people-watching.

Shop in the Souq Al-Mubarakiya: One of the oldest traditional markets in Kuwait City, offering spices, perfumes, dates, and textiles in a restored historical setting.

Tour the Grand Mosque of Kuwait: The country’s largest mosque features stunning Islamic architecture, guided tours, and a peaceful atmosphere in the heart of the capital.

Visit Failaka Island: Reachable by ferry, this island features ancient ruins from the Dilmun civilization, Greek temples, and relics from the Gulf War.

See the Scientific Center and Aquarium: A family-friendly attraction with marine exhibits, desert creatures, and the largest aquarium in the Gulf.

Land Activities

Motorcycle Touring: Desert highways and coastal roads are popular among local riders, especially in cooler months. Some biker clubs organize group rides.

Bicycle Touring: Cycling is growing slowly, with paths along the Corniche. Long-distance riding is limited by traffic and climate.

Wildlife Safari / Bird Watching: Birds migrate through Kuwait in winter, and areas like Jahra Pools Reserve offer seasonal sightings. Limited wildlife overall.

Hiking & Trekking: Minimal opportunities for hiking due to flat, arid terrain and urbanization.

Caving / Spelunking: No caves or spelunking in Kuwait.

Rock Climbing: No natural rock formations suitable for climbing.

Water Activities

Fishing: Popular among locals with boat charters available for deep-sea fishing. Fish markets are lively and well-stocked.

Scuba Diving: Dive sites around Failaka Island offer shipwrecks and reefs. Clubs and dive centers operate out of Kuwait City.

Snorkeling: Limited coral and visibility, but shallow snorkeling is possible near islands and from some beaches.

Kayaking / Canoeing: Practiced along calm coastal waters and artificial lagoons. Rentals are available at some resorts and beach clubs.

Wind Surfing: Occasional practice by enthusiasts along the coast. No major infrastructure.

White Water Rafting: No rivers or rapids.

Surfing: No surfable waves.

Leisure & Lifestyle

Shopping: Kuwait has world-class malls like The Avenues and 360 Mall, as well as traditional markets. Luxury shopping is especially prominent.

Spa Treatments: High-end hotel spas and wellness centers offer massage, hammam, and beauty treatments , popular with both locals and expats.

Weddings / Honeymoons: Kuwait is not a common wedding destination for foreigners, but locals enjoy lavish private events in hotels and event halls.

Cooking Classes: A few culinary schools and cultural centers offer lessons in Kuwaiti and Gulf cuisine.

Wellness, Spas & Yoga: Yoga and wellness studios exist in Kuwait City. Popular with expat communities and locals interested in holistic health.

Nightlife & Partying: Alcohol is banned, and nightlife is restricted to cafes, restaurants, and private gatherings. Shisha lounges are common.

Golfing: A small number of golf courses exist, such as the Sahara Golf & Country Club, but it’s a niche activity.

Winter Activities

Skiing / Snowboarding: No snow or mountains.

Cultural Experiences

Tour the Grand Mosque: A central site in Kuwait City, offering guided tours that explain Islamic architecture and Kuwaiti religious life.

Visit the National Museum and Sadu House: Learn about Kuwaiti heritage, Bedouin weaving, and maritime history through well-curated exhibits.

Shop at Souq Al-Mubarakiya: This traditional market offers gold, perfume, dates, and Gulf dishes , a preserved slice of old Kuwait.

Attend a Kuwaiti Cultural Event: The Qurain Cultural Festival and Hala February Festival celebrate national culture, music, art, and seasonal shopping.

Explore Failaka Island’s Archaeology: See Greek and Dilmun-era ruins alongside Gulf War relics, accessible by boat from the mainland.

Experience Bedouin Hospitality: Some desert camps and cultural centers showcase Bedouin traditions, from coffee rituals to poetry and tents.

Watch a Kuwaiti Theater or Music Performance: National theaters in Kuwait City host Arabic plays, music, and cultural programming.

Unique

Visit the Kuwait Towers: The country’s architectural landmark, these space-age water towers define the skyline and offer great views over the Gulf.

Spend a Day on Failaka Island: A mix of ancient ruins, deserted buildings, and tranquil beaches , a surreal and educational escape.

Camp in the Desert During Winter: Popular with locals, desert camping includes bonfires, grilling, and social gatherings under the stars.

See the Shipwreck at Qaruh Island: A small, remote island offering wreck diving and snorkeling trips in clear waters.

Join a Pearl Diving Heritage Tour: Learn about Kuwait’s history as a center of pearling through museum exhibits or simulated dives.

Stroll the Corniche at Sunset: One of the best ways to experience coastal Kuwait , jogging paths, food stalls, and city views.

Eat Machboos and Harees at a Traditional Restaurant: Experience Kuwaiti cuisine in family-run establishments or themed restaurants like Freej Swaileh.

Courses & Learning

Arabic Language Courses: Offered through cultural centers and universities in Kuwait City, with options for expats and international visitors.

Cooking Classes in Kuwaiti Cuisine: Learn to prepare dishes like machboos, lentil soup, and date desserts in private kitchens or culinary institutes.

Photography Walks in the Souks and Along the Coast: Guided photo tours showcase Kuwait’s modern and traditional sides, from skyscrapers to mosques.

Traditional Weaving and Craft Demonstrations: Sadu House offers insights into Bedouin weaving techniques and heritage preservation.

Volunteering with Cultural and Environmental NGOs: Limited but growing opportunities exist, particularly in youth education and marine conservation.

Kuwait is a small, urbanized country where most travel happens within or around Kuwait City. There are no trains or ferries, and public transport is limited to buses and taxis, with ride-sharing apps becoming increasingly common. Car rentals are popular among visitors who want flexibility, and driving is straightforward thanks to a solid road network. The country’s compact size means you can reach almost anywhere in under an hour.

Train

Kuwait doesn’t have a train or metro system. There are long-term plans for a metro in Kuwait City, but for now, transport is limited to road-based options.

Bus

Buses are cheap and widespread, but not particularly convenient unless you know the system. There are two main operators: Kuwait Public Transport Company (KPTC) and CityBus.

• Kuwait City to Salmiya (30–40 minutes): A common route connecting downtown to the shopping and restaurant hub.
• Kuwait City to Fahaheel (1 hour): A longer ride heading south toward the oil refineries.
• Airport to downtown Kuwait City (30–45 minutes): Public buses do run, but they’re slow and not luggage-friendly.

Buses are extremely affordable but often lack clear schedules and English signage. Most locals and expats use other transport options.

Car Rental

Renting a car is common and gives you the most control over your travel. Kuwait’s roads are in excellent shape, and the signage is in both Arabic and English.

• Driving along the coast: You can easily explore Failaka Island ferries, the Kuwait Towers, or desert areas near the Saudi border.
• From Kuwait City to Jahra or Wafra: Simple drives that take under an hour with a rental.

Traffic in Kuwait City can be chaotic, and drivers are aggressive. Parking is usually easy outside central areas.

Ride Share

Careem and Jeebley are Kuwait’s go-to ride-hailing services. Uber does not operate here.

• Careem is widely used for short and medium rides in Kuwait City and surrounding suburbs.
• Jeebley focuses more on delivery, but local taxi apps can fill in.

Ride-hailing is reliable, cheaper than taxis, and useful for avoiding fare haggling.

Ferries & Boats

Kuwait has no regular ferry system for domestic travel, but seasonal boats do run to Failaka Island, a popular historical and leisure destination.

• Kuwait City to Failaka Island (1 hour): Passenger ferries and speedboats run from the Marina Crescent and Ras Al-Ardh Marina.

These are recreational trips, not transport routes, mostly used on weekends and holidays.

Air

There are no domestic flights in Kuwait, everything goes through Kuwait International Airport (KWI). The country is simply too small to justify flying internally.

• Kuwait to Dubai, Doha, or Riyadh (1 hour each): Common regional flights from KWI.

Getting to and from the airport is easiest by taxi or Careem, as buses are not luggage-friendly and often slow.

Taxis

Taxis are widely available and can be flagged down or called by phone. They’re not metered, so you’ll need to negotiate the fare in advance.

• City taxis are best for short rides within Kuwait City and nearby suburbs.
• Airport taxis are easy to find, but rates are often inflated unless pre-booked.
• Longer trips to Wafra or desert camps can be arranged with private drivers or hotels.

Taxis are fine in a pinch, but ride-sharing apps are usually cheaper and more transparent.

Public Transport in Cities

Kuwait City has an expanding bus network, but it’s underused by visitors. There’s no metro, tram, or light rail system.

• KPTC and CityBus operate urban routes, but buses are slow, crowded, and confusing for new visitors.
• Airport routes exist but are not luggage-friendly and not ideal if you’re unfamiliar with the system.

Most tourists and locals opt for Careem, taxis, or car rentals instead of dealing with public buses.

Kuwait has remained largely insulated from the troubles of neighboring Iraq. The country has very low levels of crime and is spared the potential safety hazards posed by alcohol and illegal drugs given the very harsh stance taken against any forms of intoxication. Nevertheless, Kuwaitis are extremely reckless drivers, even in the absence of alcohol. The health system is generally good and the tap water drinkable.

Kuwait is considered a safe destination with low crime rates and a modern infrastructure. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing or bag snatching, can occur in crowded areas like Kuwait City’s markets, shopping malls, and public transportation hubs, but it is relatively rare. Violent crime is uncommon, and the country is largely peaceful for travelers. However, travelers should exercise basic precautions, particularly in unfamiliar areas or at night.

Health risks in Kuwait are minimal, with high standards of food hygiene and clean tap water in most areas. Foodborne illnesses are rare, but travelers should still be cautious with street food or food from less-regulated establishments. The healthcare system in Kuwait is modern and well-developed, with high-quality hospitals and clinics available in major cities. However, medical facilities in rural areas may be limited. Travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage is recommended, especially for those traveling outside urban centers or engaging in activities like desert trekking.

Scams & Petty Crime: Petty theft such as pickpocketing or bag snatching can occasionally occur in crowded spaces, particularly in markets or on public transport. These incidents are rare, but travelers should secure their valuables and be cautious in busy areas. Taxi scams are also possible, so using reputable services or agreeing on fares beforehand is recommended.

Political Unrest: Kuwait is politically stable, and violent unrest is rare. While occasional protests related to political or social issues may occur, they are usually small and peaceful. Travelers should avoid large gatherings or demonstrations and stay informed about local events to avoid any potential disruptions.

Diseases: The risk of disease in Kuwait is low. Foodborne illnesses are uncommon, thanks to high food safety standards, but travelers should be cautious with street food or food from less-regulated sources. Tap water is generally safe to drink in most urban areas, but travelers should stick to bottled or purified water when in rural regions.

Health Facilities: Kuwait has an excellent healthcare system, with modern hospitals and medical facilities available in cities like Kuwait City. Medical services are typically of high quality, though healthcare outside major cities may be limited. It’s advisable for travelers to have comprehensive medical insurance, including coverage for emergencies and evacuation if necessary.

Road Conditions: Roads in Kuwait are generally in good condition, and driving is safe. However, traffic congestion can be an issue, particularly in Kuwait City during peak hours. Drivers should be cautious, as road rage and speeding are sometimes problematic. Public transportation is available, but taxis and ride-hailing services like Uber are often more convenient for tourists.

Food & Water: Tap water is safe to drink in most urban areas, but bottled water is recommended in rural regions or when traveling in less-developed areas. Food hygiene standards are high in reputable restaurants and hotels. Street food is generally safe to eat, but it’s best to eat at busy and popular vendors to minimize the risk of foodborne illness.

Nature’s Fury: Kuwait is not prone to significant natural disasters. However, it can experience extreme heat during the summer months, with temperatures regularly exceeding 40°C (104°F). Sandstorms are also possible, especially during the spring and summer. Travelers should stay hydrated, use sun protection, and be aware of heat-related risks.

Kuwait’s history is rooted in maritime trade, pearl diving, and desert tribal life. Strategically located at the head of the Persian Gulf, it became an important port in the 18th and 19th centuries, connecting India, East Africa, and the Arabian Peninsula. The ruling Al-Sabah family established control in 1756 and later forged ties with the British, gaining protection without formal colonization. Oil transformed the country in the mid-20th century, turning a modest coastal settlement into one of the richest states per capita. The 1990 Iraqi invasion and the subsequent Gulf War marked a defining moment in Kuwaiti identity, reinforcing its sovereignty and reshaping its role in global politics.

Culturally, Kuwait balances deep-rooted Bedouin traditions with a modern, urbanized lifestyle. Hospitality, poetry, and oral storytelling remain part of national life, while Kuwaiti theater, media, and literature have flourished, especially in the Gulf context. Islam plays a central role, most Kuwaitis are Sunni Muslims, though there’s a notable Shia minority. The country is conservative by regional standards but relatively open compared to some Gulf neighbors, with an active press and a partially elected parliament. Traditional diwaniyas (men’s social gathering spaces) coexist with sleek malls and high-rise towers, reflecting a society that’s both anchored in heritage and attuned to globalization.

Food

Kuwaiti cuisine is a blend of Bedouin, Persian, Indian, and East African influences, shaped by trade and geography. Traditional meals often revolve around rice, lamb, chicken, and fish, cooked with spices, saffron, and dried limes. Meals are meant to be shared and are often accompanied by dates, yogurt, and Arabic coffee.

Language

The official language is Arabic, specifically Gulf Arabic, though English is widely spoken, especially in business, education, and among the large expatriate population. Most signage in cities is bilingual, and many locals speak conversational English. That said, learning a few Arabic words is always appreciated.

History

Kuwait has a long connection to the sea, once thriving as a center of pearling, trading, and boat-building in the 18th and 19th centuries. It became a British protectorate in the late 1800s, gaining independence in 1961. Oil, discovered in the 1930s, transformed the country into one of the richest in the world.

Kuwait’s modern history is shaped by the 1990 Iraqi invasion, which led to the Gulf War. The war devastated the country, but reconstruction was swift, and Kuwait remains politically stable and economically strong. It has a parliamentary system, though the royal family, the Al Sabah, continues to wield significant power.