Kuwait City Guide

General Information / Guide

Kuwait City, the capital of Kuwait, is located on the southern shore of Kuwait Bay in the Persian Gulf. Its name, rooted in the Arabic term for "fort," reflects its historical beginnings. Established in the early 18th century by migrating families from the Arabian Peninsula's interior, the old mud-walled city thrived through fishing, pearling, and trade with the Indian subcontinent and eastern Africa. As the primary populated area in the country for an extended period, Kuwait City has historical significance. Today, it stands as a vibrant metropolis with high-rise buildings, luxury hotels, wide boulevards, and well-maintained parks, notably featuring the iconic Kuwait Towers. 

Climate / Weather / When to Go

Kuwait City experiences a hot desert climate characterized by extremely hot, prolonged summers and mild, brief winters. Among the hottest cities globally during summer, average high temperatures surpass 45 °C for three months, reaching over 50 °C during heat waves. Nighttime lows often stay above 30 °C. Winters see nighttime temperatures dropping below 8 °C. Despite its coastal position and proximity to the equator compared to other hot desert climates, the city faces extreme heat, surrounded by desert in almost every direction. Sandstorms, driven by the shamal wind, occasionally occur, particularly in summer and less frequently in autumn.

How to Get There

Kuwait International Airport, located 22 km from the city center, is accessible via direct and connecting flights from various locations. To reach the city center, travelers can opt for taxis or cab apps, both taking approximately 20 minutes. Also,  buses are available, which are more affordable but take approximately 40 minutes. 

Food / Restaurants / What to Eat and Drink

In Kuwait, several restaurants offer different cuisines for all of its visitors. For French cuisine, try Le Relais de l'Entrecote (Avenues Mall, Al-Fanar Mall, Salmiya), renowned for its traditional steak frites, and indulge in delightful pastries and entrees at Paul (Marina Mall, Salmiya). For an exquisite taste of Italian cuisine, Viaggio Restaurant (Crowne Plaza Hotel) or Lorenzo (next to Salhiya Complex) are ideal. 
If you prefer Indian, try Mugal Mahal (Sharg), Bukhara (Sheraton Hotel), Silk and Spice (Al Kout Mall, Fahaheel), and Asha's (Marina Crescent). Dive into Lebanese culinary delights at Villa Fayrouz (Sha'ab), Mejana (Al Kout Mall, Fahahel), Mais Al-Ghanim (Gulf Road), Tarboosh (Sheraton Hotel), and Burj Al Hamam. For local Kuwaiti flavors, AL-Marsa (Ritz Hotel, Gulf Road) is one of the best. Kei (Marriott Hotel or Marina Mall), Maki (Marina Waves), Edo (Shaeb), and Sakura (Crown Plaza Hotel or Layla Gallery) are some of the best options for Japanese cuisine. 

Important Places / Places to Visit

• Kuwait Towers: Symbolic landmark with a unique design. Two accessible spheres: one for viewing with a rotating platform, and the other housing the Ofok restaurant. The third tower serves as a decorative light source.
• Liberation Tower: One of the world's tallest telecommunication towers. Generally not open to tourists, but exceptions on February 25th, National Day.
• National Museum: Displays relics from Failaka Island and recreates an old Kuwaiti souq. Free entry, open on specific days and times.
• Sadu House: Cultural museum next to the National Museum. Showcases Bedouin arts and crafts.
• Bayt Al-Badr: Historic house in traditional Kuwaiti architecture. Currently closed but worth passing by.
• Seif Palace: Built in 1896, featuring original Islamic mosaic tilework. Not open to the public but has beautiful gardens.
• National Assembly: Houses the Kuwaiti parliament. Fine architecture but not open to the public.
• Grand Mosque: One of the most famous mosques in Kuwait. Offers guided tours for tourists. Proper dress is available for women borrowing to enter.
• War Museum: Located near Shuwaikh port, depicting Kuwait during the Iraqi invasion.
• Al Shaheed Park: Kuwait's largest urban park with contemporary architecture and art.
• Fish Market: Located west of Sharq Mall, a bustling market with a variety of fish.
• Scientific Center: Family-oriented amusement facility with a 3-D cinema and an aquarium.
• Green Island: Artificial island and marine park offering bird's-eye views of the Kuwait City skyline, opened in 1988.

What to Do

Kuwait City offers a variety of activities for visitors. Explore the iconic Kuwait Towers for lunch or dinner and take a tour of the Grand Mosque, easily arranged with the mosque's security guard. Across from the Grand Mosque, the Kuwaiti Stock Exchange is open to the public. Experience traditional Shisha at local cafes and indulge in Iranian, Lebanese, and Bedouin cuisines at excellent restaurants. Escape the heat at the Kuwait Aqua Park near the towers, featuring modern rides and pools. Enjoy a scenic coastal walk, particularly at dusk near Souq Sharq, and savor a sunset view on the Arabian Sea with snacks from the fish market. Fitness enthusiasts can engage in exclusive fitness centers, with top options like Elysium, Flex, Spa Time, and Ayurmana, which also boasts a well-regarded Exclusive Yoga Studio for women and an Ayurveda Center.

Nightlife / Bars / Entertainment

Kuwait City offers many options for the different needs of its visitors. While public alcohol consumption is prohibited, many hotels and restaurants offer non-alcoholic beverages, and you can enjoy shisha at cafes. You can also attend live music performances or have a break with Arabic coffee and desserts at various venues. Kuwait also hosts international events, so check if there's a concert or show happening during your stay.
 

Shopping / What to Buy

In Kuwait City, high-end malls such as Marina Mall, among the largest, offer extensive shopping. Modern shopping centers along the coastal Gulf Road include Souq Sharq and Marina Mall in Salmiya, with Al-Kout in Fahaheel featuring charming coffee shops. "Araya Mall" and Al-Salhiya Mall in Sharq showcase high-priced designer brands, while The Avenues stands out as one of the largest newer malls. 
Traditional markets like Souk Al Mubarakiya downtown offer Middle Eastern and Oriental items, including a gold and jewelry market. Souk Al-Juma'a, a Friday market, provides low-priced mass-produced goods. Mahameed markets in Behbahani Complex and Souk Al-Watiya, also known as Al-Watiya Complex, offer an authentic atmosphere, with diverse restaurants and a focus on gold and jewelry. Additionally, Al-Fanar Mall houses various shops, including Ralph Lauren and Lacoste, along with restaurants and cafes.

Festivals/ Events

February: Hala February Festival
March: Kuwait International Short Film Festival
March: Kuwait International Music Festival
April: Kuwait International Food Festival
November: Money Expo Kuwait
November: Kuwait International Book Fair
November- December: Kuwait International Fair
November- December: Kuwait Film Festival

Holidays / Festivals / Important Days

31 December: New Year's Eve    
1 January: New Year's Day        
25 February: National Day    
26 February: Liberation Day    
Eid al-Fitr 
Arafat Day     
Eid al-Adha 
Islamic New Year     
The Prophet's Birthday 

Things to Pay Attention to / Important Information

For tourists in Kuwait, it's crucial to adhere to local customs and laws. As a Muslim country, respect for traditions and religions is paramount. Dress modestly to respect local norms, and note that challenging or insulting the Emir can result in severe consequences. Be cautious with photography, especially near government buildings and infrastructure. Alcohol is strictly prohibited, even at hotels or by permit holders. Additionally, individuals involved in disputes with Kuwaiti entities may face travel restrictions. Despite these considerations, Kuwait is generally safe for travel in the Gulf region, with attention to cultural sensitivities and legal regulations.

Transportation

Taxis are the most convenient transportation option in Kuwait. There are three types: call taxis, often ordered by phone and found near major hotels; airport taxis, larger cars with fixed fares; and orange taxis, roaming the streets with negotiable fares. Orange taxis might try to increase costs, especially if your destination is unclear. Alternatively, buses operated by Kuwait Public Transport Company and CityBus have fixed fares for city trips and longer distances. However, buses have sparse shelters, unreliable schedules, and limited information compared to taxis.