Kuwait

Kuwait is a great place to get acquainted with civilized Arab culture and to relax on the soft sandy beaches of the Persian Gulf. Thanks to oil production, the country is an economically developed state. Five-star hotels and business centers are adjacent to ancient mosques and luxurious shopping centers with colorful Arab bazaars.

Kuwait was founded by Bedouin clans back in the XIII century. The advantageous location on the coast of the Persian Gulf harbor allowed to build a port here through which coffee, pearls, spices, and even horses were exported. In 1871, Kuwait was invaded by the Ottoman Empire, and in 1899, the control of foreign policy was taken over by Britain. The country gained its independence in 1961; however, in 1990, Iraq occupied Kuwait, adding the country to its territory. But a year later, the state regained its independence and began to develop at a very rapid pace.

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General information

Capital:

Kuwait City

Population:

4 588 148

Official language:

Arabic

Currency:

Kuwaiti dinar

Territory:

17 818 km²

Geography

Kuwait is a state located in southwest Asia. It borders Iraq to the north and west, Saudi Arabia to the south. The Persian Gulf washes the coast on the east side; the length of the coastline is as much as 499 km. Most of the country is desert. The landscape is mainly flat, but there are also hilly areas. Kuwait also includes small reefs on the southern shore and several adjacent islands: Bubiyan, Failaka, Qaruh, Umm Al Maradim, and others. The administrative and territorial division of the country includes six governorships (governorates), which in turn are divided into districts.

Map Kuwait

What to see and where?

Kuwait City is the capital of the country and the largest port located on the southern shore of the bay. The city is the economic, cultural, and entertainment center of the country. The main symbol of the town is the Musical Fountain, one of the largest in the world. In fact, it is a huge complex, which includes 220 fountains and three swimming pools. In the evening, every element of the construction is illuminated. The Kuwait Towers are another recognizable "trademark" of Kuwait City, constructed in 1979. An impressive architectural monument is Seif Palace of the Emir Kuwait, which was built according to all national traditions: an elegant tower with a beautiful clock, separated by beautiful tiles and gold. Tareq Rajab Museum, which houses art and ancient calligraphy, also attracts a lot of tourists.

Al Ahmadi is the oil heart of Kuwait. The city is located in the south of the country, 25 km from the capital. Its date of origin is 1946, and it is named after its founder, Sheikh Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah. This is where the headquarters of the Kuwait Oil Company is located. There is a museum on the territory of the city, which tells about how the oil business was born in this country. The whole city stands on the sand, but there is a city park where fresh air and greenery help to take a breath, relax, and recover energy. The locals love to spend their time here.

Al Jahra is a major agricultural hub of the state. The city is located in the central part of the country, on the territory of an oasis. Thanks to the mild climate and fertile soil, fruits and vegetables are actively grown here. The Al-Shabab Mubarak al-Aiar Stadium, the home arena of the Al-Jahra club, is of great importance to the local population. And the Red Fort stands out among the sights. This building is a symbol of patriotism, as in 1920, a historic battle took place here, which led to the defeat of the Saudis' troops. The fort consists of four towers and powerful walls made of mud bricks, and Kuwaitis explain its red color by the fact that it is the blood of soldiers who died here.

Salmiya is a city on the shore of the Persian Gulf. It was destroyed during the Iraqi occupation in 1991 and rebuilt two years after the military events. The city hosts the Thamir Stadium, where matches of the local football club are often held. Salmiya is also a hub of student life. There are many educational institutions here: Pakistan School and College, French School, Indian Community School, Indian English Academy School, American University.

Hawally is situated not far from the capital, on the coast of the Persian Gulf. It offers not only stunning views of the sea surface and nature but is also equipped with everything for comfortable beach recreation and water sports. The majority of the population is Palestinian, so there are many buildings constructed here, taking into account national features. The cultural sites of interest include the Bait Al-Othman Museum, opened by the Emir of Kuwait in 2013. Its expositions are dedicated to the history and culture of the city.

National peculiarities of the citizens of Kuwait

Despite the fact that Kuwait is an Islamic country, women do not have to wear the hijab, although many still adhere to tradition.
Kuwait has a strict alcohol prohibition law. People who don't follow the regulations can not only pay a heavy fine but also be deported and even sentenced to three years in prison.
As far as working hours are concerned, banks within the country operate from 7 AM to 7.30 PM (a break from 1 PM to 5 PM), government institutions from 7 AM to 2 PM, and cafes from 8 AM to 9 PM.
Disrespect and rudeness towards the Emir is a criminal responsibility.
Duties of women and men are strictly separated. Men provide for the family, and women are responsible for the comfort and peace in the house.

Cities in Kuwait

Kuwait City

Kuwait

What is the best time to visit Kuwait?

The climate in Kuwait is tropical. It has two seasons: relatively rainy winters and dry summers. In January, the average temperatures are +13 °С, and in July, it is around +36 °С. It is better to go to the country in autumn or spring. It is not too hot there during this period. But summers are really scorching here, with frequent sandstorms.