KUWAIT

The Jewel of The Middle East

 A fascinating country with a unique blend of modernity and tradition. The Arabian Desert covers most of the country, with sand dunes, salt flats, and rocky terrain. Kuwait’s rich history and contemporary developments make it a captivating destination for travelers and culture enthusiasts alike!

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The Kuwait Towers are a group of three slender towers in Kuwait City, standing on a promontory into the Persian Gulf. 
The Central State Museum of Kazakhstan is a treasure trove of cultural and historical heritage located in the heart of Almaty, Kazakhstan. 
Kuwait City offers a mix of modern architecture

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The best time to visit Kuwait is during the cooler months from November to April when temperatures are pleasant. During this period, outdoor activities are more enjoyable, and exploring the city is far more comfortable. Additionally, according to NOAA (the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration), ideal weather in Kuwait occurs between January 29th and April 8th, as well as October 29th and December 23rd.

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Here are some of the must-do tourist attractions:

Kuwait City: As the capital city, Kuwait City is a must-visit. It boasts several attractions:
Kuwait Towers: Iconic structures overlooking the Persian Gulf. They offer panoramic views of the city.

Grand Mosque of Kuwait: A magnificent mosque with intricate architecture.
Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmad Cultural Centre: A cultural complex with theaters, libraries, and exhibition halls.

Al Shaheed Park: A green oasis with gardens, walking trails, and sculptures.
Souk Al-Mubarakiya: A traditional market where you can shop for local goods and enjoy street food.

Mirror House: A unique museum in Kuwait City, created by artist Lidia Al-Qattan. The entire house is covered in mirrors, creating a mesmerizing effect.

Tareq Rajab Museum: A private museum showcasing Islamic art, calligraphy, and artifacts.

Bayan Palace: The official residence of the Emir of Kuwait. While you can’t enter, it’s an impressive building to admire from outside.

Bayan Botanical Garden: A serene garden with various plant species, including desert flora.

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Here are some must-try dishes:

Harees: A thick porridge-like dish made from mashed wheat and meat (usually chicken or mutton). It’s garnished with cinnamon sugar, cumin, and cardamom. Harees is especially popular during Ramadan and provides comforting warmth during Kuwait’s winters.

Jireesh: Similar to Harees, Jireesh uses a different variety of wheat. It’s cooked with mutton or chicken and topped with flavors like bay leaves, cinnamon sticks, raisins, dried lemon, onions, and tomatoes.

Machboos Laham: Considered Kuwait’s national dish, Machboos Laham features slow-cooked long-grain basmati rice infused with spices like cardamom, cinnamon, turmeric, cloves, pepper, and ginger. It’s layered with mutton or chicken and often garnished with fried onions, raisins, and split chickpeas.

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Here are some useful tips to keep in mind:

Currency: The Kuwaiti Dinar (KWD) is the national currency. It’s the highest-valued currency globally, with 1 KWD equaling approximately 3.24 US Dollars34. 

Keep in mind: Remember that Kuwait is a dry country, so alcohol is illegal there.

Local Etiquette: Kuwaitis are known for their warm hospitality. When greeting people, offer a handshake and maintain eye contact. Avoid sensitive topics like politics or religion unless initiated by locals. Public displays of affection are not customary.

Dress Code: Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or public places. For men, long trousers and shirts are appropriate. Women should cover their shoulders and wear skirts or dresses that reach below the knee. A headscarf is not mandatory but can be respectful.

Sun Protection: Kuwait experiences scorching summers, so protect yourself from the intense sun. Wear sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. Stay hydrated and avoid outdoor activities during peak heat hours.

Traffic: Be cautious when crossing roads. Kuwaiti drivers can be assertive, and traffic can be chaotic. Use pedestrian crossings and follow traffic signals.

Language: Arabic is the official language, but English is widely spoken, especially in urban areas. Learning a few basic Arabic phrases can enhance your experience.

Friday Closures: Friday is the Islamic day of rest, so many businesses and attractions may be closed or have limited hours. Plan accordingly.
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