PROBYTRAVEL
Kuwait

Things to Do in Kuwait

Where ancient maritime heritage meets modern Arabian hospitality.

  • CapitalKuwait City
  • CurrencyKuwaiti Dinar (KWD)
  • LanguageArabic
  • Time zoneUTC+3
  • Emergency112

Why visit Kuwait?

Kuwait offers a compelling blend of traditional Bedouin roots and sleek, modern architectural ambition. Situated at the tip of the Arabian Gulf, this compact country presents a more relaxed and introspective atmosphere than its high-profile neighbors, making it an intriguing destination for travelers seeking authentic cultural encounters. From the iconic Kuwait Towers dominating the cityscape to the bustling avenues of Souq Al-Mubarakiya, the country reveals its history through maritime trade, pearl diving legacy, and rapid post-oil modernization.

Navigating Kuwait requires planning around its extreme desert climate. While the scorching summer months push temperatures past 50°C, the winter and spring seasons bring pleasant, cool breezes perfect for exploring outdoor markets, walking along the Arabian Gulf Street corniche, or venturing into the desert dunes. Travelers should expect a conservative but highly hospitable environment where culinary arts thrive, historical museums are meticulously curated, and the traditional diwaniya culture remains the cornerstone of social life.

The Kuwait Towers

The symbolic trio of reinforced concrete towers offering panoramic views of the Arabian Gulf and Kuwait City from the rotating viewing sphere.

Souq Al-Mubarakiya

One of the oldest souqs in the country, where visitors can shop for dates, spices, perfumes, and traditional garments while dining on authentic Persian and Gulf cuisine.

Sheikh Abdullah Al Salem Cultural Centre

A massive, state-of-the-art museum complex featuring world-class exhibits on space, natural history, Islamic science, and human body systems.

The Grand Mosque

Kuwait's official state mosque, renowned for its majestic Islamic architecture, massive central dome, and detailed Andalusian-style tilework.

Failaka Island

An archaeological treasure trove accessible by ferry, containing relics from Ancient Greek settlements and ruins from the 1990 Gulf War.

Tareq Rajab Museum

A private collection housing an extraordinary array of Islamic calligraphy, historic manuscripts, silver jewelry, and traditional musical instruments.

Popular regions

Kuwait City

Kuwait City

The political, cultural, and commercial heart of the nation, stretching along the southern coast of Kuwait Bay, home to major landmarks and luxury hotels.

Jahra & the Desert Interior

Jahra & the Desert Interior

Located northwest of the capital, Jahra is a historical agricultural oasis town that opens up to vast desert plains, historical battle sites, and traditional winter camping spots.

The Southern Coast & Al-Ahmadi

The Southern Coast & Al-Ahmadi

Known for the country's oil production history, clean public beaches, chalet communities, and coastal developments stretching down to the Saudi border.

The Northern Shore & Failaka Island

The Northern Shore & Failaka Island

Comprising the dramatic desert cliffs of Mutla Ridge, the marshy coastal areas popular with migratory birds, and Failaka Island.

When to visit Kuwait

Based on average conditions in Kuwait.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Temperature20°22°27°34°41°45°47°47°44°37°28°22°
Rain3d3d3d2d0d0d0d0d0d1d3d3d
CrowdsHighHighMedMedLowLowLowLowLowMedHighHigh
  • Cold
  • Comfortable / dry / low crowds
  • Cool–hot / typical / moderate
  • Very hot / wetter / high crowds

Plan your trip to Kuwait

Ideal Trip Duration

3-4 Days

Perfect for exploring Kuwait City's museums, souqs, architectural monuments, and taking a half-day ferry trip to Failaka Island.

Best Time to Visit

November to March

Avoid the intense summer heat. The winter months offer comfortable daytime temperatures ranging from 18°C to 25°C.

Primary Gateway

Kuwait International Airport (KWI)

Located about 16 kilometers south of central Kuwait City, serving as the main hub for Kuwait Airways and Jazeera Airways.

Key Packing Item

Modest layers and sunscreen

Even in winter, the Arabian sun is strong. Light, breathable cotton layers are best, plus a light jacket for cool desert nights.

Getting around Kuwait

Ride-Hailing & Taxis

Taxis are abundant but rarely use meters. It is crucial to negotiate the price before departing, or use popular ride-hailing apps like Careem to secure fixed rates.

Car Rentals

An excellent and highly popular option. Roads in Kuwait are modern, well-signposted in English, and fuel is incredibly cheap. An International Driving Permit is required.

Public Bus System

Operated mainly by KPTC and CityBus. While extremely cheap and covering most of Kuwait City, they are mostly used by local workers and can be slow and hard to navigate for tourists.

Costs, food & practical info

Costs

  • Budget

    20-35 KWD per day

    Basic hotel accommodations, local cafeteria meals, and public transport.

  • Mid-range

    45-80 KWD per day

    International 3-star and 4-star hotels, modern mall dining, and private taxi travel.

  • Luxury

    120+ KWD per day

    Five-star luxury gulf-front resorts, high-end fine dining, and private chauffeur services.

Kuwait is generally an expensive destination. The Kuwaiti Dinar is the highest-valued currency unit in the world, which can make everyday transactions feel costly for international visitors.

Food & drinks

  • Machboos (Spiced rice dish with mutton or chicken)3.500 KWD
  • Grilled Seabream (Sobaity) at a local fish restaurant6.000 KWD
  • Traditional Arabic coffee (Gahwa) and dates1.500 KWD
  • Falafel sandwich at a street-side bakery0.400 KWD
  • Mutabbaq Samak (Spiced fish served over rice)4.500 KWD

Practical

  • Alcohol Ban

    Kuwait is a completely dry country. The import, sale, and consumption of alcohol are strictly illegal, even inside international hotels.

  • Dress Code

    Modest dress is highly recommended in public spaces. Women do not need to cover their hair except inside mosques, but both men and women should keep shoulders and knees covered.

  • Tipping Culture

    A 10% service charge is often added in high-end restaurants, but tipping waiters directly 10% is customary for good service. For taxi drivers, rounding up the fare is appreciated.

  • Photography Rules

    Never take photos of government buildings, military installations, oil refineries, or local people without explicit permission.

Insight in one click

Frequently asked questions about visiting Kuwait

How many days do I need in Kuwait? +

A 3-day itinerary is usually sufficient to visit the main cultural centers, historical souqs, modern malls, and coastal landmarks.

What is the best time of year to visit Kuwait? +

The ideal time is between November and March, when temperatures are mild and outdoor exploration is comfortable.

Is Kuwait safe for solo travelers? +

Kuwait has a very low crime rate and is considered extremely safe for solo travelers. Standard safety precautions and respect for local customs apply.

Can you drink alcohol in Kuwait? +

No, Kuwait is a completely dry country. Alcohol is illegal, and there are no bars, clubs, or licensed hotel venues.

What should I wear when visiting Kuwait? +

Wear loose, comfortable clothing that covers your shoulders and knees. Tight or revealing outfits should be avoided to respect local cultural norms.

Is it easy to get around Kuwait without a car? +

While taxis and ride-hailing apps are easy to use, renting a car is highly recommended for convenience due to cheap fuel and the car-centric design of the country.

Is English widely spoken in Kuwait? +

Yes, English is the primary language of business and is spoken by almost all service workers, shopkeepers, and younger locals.