Kuwait City Travel: 100 Questions Answered based on NeemTime research
✈️ Planning Your Trip & Logistics
1. What is the best time of year to visit Kuwait City?
The best time is between November and March, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing.
2. Is Kuwait City safe for tourists, especially solo female travelers?
Yes, Kuwait is considered extremely safe with a very low crime rate. Violent crime against tourists is uncommon. Solo female travelers should still exercise normal caution, especially at night.
3. Do I need a visa to visit Kuwait?
Yes, most nationalities require a visa. Options often include an e-Visa (recommended) or a Visa on Arrival (VOA), depending on your passport. Check your specific country’s requirements in advance.
4. Should I get an e-Visa or Visa on Arrival?
The e-Visa is generally recommended as it saves time and makes the arrival process at the often-chaotic airport much smoother.
5. How much does a tourist visa cost?
For many eligible nationalities, the visa costs around 3 KWD (approx. $10 USD).
6. What is the local currency?
The currency is the Kuwaiti Dinar (KWD), which is one of the highest-valued currencies in the world.
7. Is Kuwait City expensive to visit?
Kuwait can be expensive, especially for accommodation and upscale dining. However, certain local experiences, food, and public transport (if used) can be affordable.
8. How many days should I plan for a trip?
Many visitors treat it as a layover (1-2 days). For a good feel of the city and surrounding areas, 3 to 5 days is often recommended.
9. What language is spoken? Will English be enough?
The official language is Arabic, but English is widely spoken by the diverse expat and local population, especially in hospitality, malls, and attractions.
10. Do hotels require a marriage certificate for couples?
Yes, some hotels, especially those listed on booking sites, require couples to show a marriage certificate upon check-in. If unmarried, you might need to book two separate rooms at some places to be safe, though this is not enforced in all hotels.
11. Is public transportation good for tourists?
Kuwait City is not very walkable, and public transport is limited and not commonly used by tourists. It is best explored by car or ride-sharing.
12. What is the best way to get around the city?
The most reliable and recommended way is using the ride-sharing app Careem (the local equivalent of Uber). Taxis are also available but use Careem for transparency and safety.
13. Should I rent a car?
Not recommended for tourists. Driving can be challenging due to aggressive local driving habits and heavy traffic.
14. Are credit cards widely accepted?
Yes, credit and debit cards are widely accepted in malls, restaurants, and hotels. Cash (KWD) is necessary for smaller shops and the local souqs.
🕌 Culture, Customs & Etiquette
15. What is the appropriate dress code for female tourists?
Dress modestly as a sign of respect. Women should aim to cover their shoulders and knees in public places like malls and souqs. A head covering is generally not mandatory for foreigners, except when visiting mosques.
16. What is the appropriate dress code for male tourists?
Men should also dress modestly. Longer shorts or trousers and t-shirts are acceptable in most places. Avoid wearing shorts in the most conservative areas.
17. What should I avoid doing in public?
Avoid public displays of affection (kissing, excessive hugging), loud music during prayer times (adhan), and talking politics.
18. Is alcohol permitted in Kuwait?
No, alcohol is strictly illegal in Kuwait. It cannot be purchased, imported, or consumed.
19. What is the rule about food and drink during Ramadan?
During the holy month of Ramadan, it is illegal to eat, drink, or smoke in public during daylight hours (from dawn until sunset, Iftar). You can eat inside your hotel or private residence.
20. Is tipping customary?
Tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated for good service in restaurants and for drivers.
21. Can I take photographs freely?
Be cautious. Do not photograph government buildings, military sites, or local people without their explicit permission.
🏙️ Top Sights & Activities
22. What is the most iconic landmark to visit?
The Kuwait Towers are the most iconic sight. You can go up to the viewing sphere for a panoramic view (entrance fee around 3 KWD).
23. Where can I experience the traditional side of Kuwait?
Visit Souq Al-Mubarakiya, the oldest traditional market. Go in the late afternoon/evening when the weather is cooler and the market is bustling.
24. What are the best places for shopping?
The Avenues Mall is the most famous and largest mall, highly recommended for its size, variety, and modern architecture. Other major malls include 360 Mall and Marina Mall.
25. Are there any good museums?
Yes, the Sheikh Abdullah Al Salem Cultural Centre is a large, modern complex featuring multiple museums (Natural History, Science, Islamic Arts, etc.). Also, check out the Sadu House (traditional weaving) and the Tareq Rajab Museum of Islamic Calligraphy.
26. Where can I enjoy nature or the outdoors?
Visit Al Shaheed Park, which is a beautiful large urban park featuring museums and a great view of the city skyline. The Kuwait City coastline (Corniche) is also popular for walks.
27. Is it worth taking a trip to Failaka Island?
Yes, for history buffs. Failaka Island offers ruins from Hellenistic and Dilmun civilizations and a deserted residential area showing the effects of the Gulf War. Check ferry schedules and solo traveler feasibility in advance.
28. What is the best place for a cultural performance?
The Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmad Cultural Centre (Opera House) is a stunning architectural site that hosts various shows, concerts, and films.
29. Can I visit the Grand Mosque?
Yes, the Kuwait Grand Mosque is open for visitors and often provides modesty gowns upon entry. Check official visiting hours, which can be restricted.
30. Are there any remnants of the Gulf War to see?
The Al-Qurain Martyrs Museum (Beit Al-Qurain) is a house that served as a Kuwaiti resistance center during the war and is a poignant site.
🍲 Food & Dining
31. What are the must-try Kuwaiti national dishes?
Machboos: Spiced rice served with meat (chicken, lamb, or fish) and often saffron.
Mutabbaq Samak: The national fish dish.
Alba: Saffron milk pudding (a sweet treat).
Chai Haleeb: Sweet milky tea.
32. Where should I go for authentic Kuwaiti food?
Try traditional restaurants like Dar Hamad (upscale), Freej Suwaileh, or Al Shamam in Souq Mubarakiya.
33. What are the best street food options?
Shawarma is popular and can be found everywhere, with places like Ghadeer, Burgan, and Altabab highly recommended.
34. Where can I find the best falafel?
Travelers frequently mention Falafel Zaki, Falafel Alaa Kefak, and Aal Bal.
35. Are there diverse food options besides local cuisine?
Absolutely. Kuwait is a foodie paradise with an abundance of Arabic, Indian, Iranian, Asian, and Western restaurants and food halls.
36. Is tap water safe to drink?
It’s generally advised to drink bottled water instead of tap water.
37. Which app is best for food delivery?
Talabat is the dominant food and grocery delivery app.
🏨 Accommodation & Budget
38. Are there hostels available for budget travelers?
Hostels are very rare; finding budget-friendly accommodation can be difficult, as Kuwait focuses more on hotels for business travelers and wealthy visitors.
39. What is a typical price for a mid-range hotel room per night?
Prices can start around $100 to $150 USD per night in the cooler months, often rising in the summer.
40. What are the best areas to stay for a tourist?
Areas like Salmiya, Hawally, and the Kuwait City district (Sharq) offer good access to attractions, malls, and restaurants.
41. Can I use a foreign credit card with the Careem app?
Yes, as long as you have an internet connection, you can typically use an international credit card with Careem.
42. How much should I budget for daily expenses (excluding accommodation)?
Budgeting around 50 KWD to 75 KWD (approx. $160 to $245 USD) per person per day is a safe estimate for food, transport, and entry fees, but it can be done cheaper.
⚠️ Practical Tips & Safety
43. Is Kuwait a good destination for a short layover (1-2 days)?
Yes, it is considered a good layover spot, especially if you focus on the Kuwait Towers, Souq Mubarakiya, and a major mall like The Avenues.
44. Is the weather in summer unbearable?
Yes, summer (June to mid-September) temperatures can reach as high as $50^{\circ}\text{C}$ ($122^{\circ}\text{F}$). Outdoor activities are nearly impossible, and everything moves indoors.
45. How is the air quality?
Kuwait has reported relatively low air quality/haze at times, so visitors sensitive to pollution should be aware.
46. How are the locals towards tourists?
Locals are generally described as friendly and hospitable, with many being accustomed to a diverse expatriate population.
47. What is the biggest danger in Kuwait?
The most commonly mentioned danger by locals and tourists is the aggressive and unconventional driving habits and high traffic congestion.
48. Is it easy to find English speakers?
Yes, almost everyone you interact with in a service capacity speaks English.
49. Should I carry my passport everywhere?
It is generally recommended to carry a copy of your passport and visa at all times.
50. Where can I find local events and what’s happening during my visit?
Check local news and event websites like 248am.com for weekend write-ups and upcoming events.