Kuwait

Kuwait

Use High Level of Caution

The State of Kuwait is in the Middle East on the northeast corner of the Arabian Peninsula, between Iraq and Saudi Arabia, and bordering on the Persian Gulf. The population is about 3 million people.

The government of Kuwait is a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary system of government. The Emir is the head of state, and is chosen by the ruling Al-Sabah family and confirmed by the National Assembly. The Emir appoints the prime minister.

Following World War I, Kuwait became an independent sheikdom under the protection of the British Empire. After Kuwait gained independence from the United Kingdom in 1961, the nation's oil reserves led to rapid economic growth. Iraq’s invasion in 1990 resulted in the United State's intervention and restoration of Kuwait's independent status.

Although a small country, Kuwait is the world's fifth most wealthy country with a relatively open economy. Oil exports make up about 95 percent of Kuwait's government revenue. Kuwait was the first oil-producing country in the Middle East to share its wealth from oil with all its people. With the government support for education, the literacy rate is about 93 percent, one of the highest in the Arab world.

Kuwait City, the main attraction in Kuwait, is a modern city with excellent restaurants, shopping centres, marinas, and beach resorts. There are still some remnants of the Iraqi invasion of 1990, and a high level of security is maintained around hotels.

Currency KWD: Kuwaiti dinar
Language Arabic. English is widely spoken.
Capital Kuwait City
Recent Alerts 3
Latest Alert July 06, 2021 - COVID-19 Precautionary Measures in Kuwait (06 July Update)

Diseases To Be Aware Of

The diseases listed below are those which occur most often in Kuwait. Other, less frequently encountered diseases might be displayed within the Travel Alerts section if they have occurred recently.

Hepatitis A

There is a significant risk for hepatitis A virus exposure in Kuwait through contaminated food or water. Infection can still occur at tourist destinations and resorts.

Hepatitis B

There is a significant risk for acquiring hepatitis B in Kuwait.

Typhoid Fever

Unvaccinated people can become infected through contaminated food and water in Kuwait, especially when visiting smaller cities, villages, or rural areas where food and water sources may be contaminated.

Leishmaniasis

Leishmaniasis occurs only in the Jahra district.

Rabies

Rabies may occur in this country but information is limited or unavailable. Travellers involved in outdoor activities (e.g., campers, hikers, adventure travellers, and cavers) may have direct contact with rabid dogs, bats, and other mammals. Those with occupational risks (such as veterinarians, wildlife professionals, researchers) and long-term travellers and expatriates may be at higher risk.

Dengue Fever

Dengue fever may occur in this country.

Vaccinations to Consider

The following is a list of recommended vaccinations for travelling to Kuwait.

Hepatitis A Vaccine

There is a significant risk of exposure to hepatitis A for this country, therefore, the vaccination is recommended.

Hepatitis B Vaccine

There is a significant risk of infection with hepatitis B for this country, therefore, the vaccination is recommended.

Typhoid Fever Vaccine

There is a risk of exposure to typhoid fever in this country through consumption of unsafe food and water. Since exposure to unsafe sources is variable within this country, the vaccination against typhoid fever is generally recommended, especially when visiting smaller cities or rural areas, where food and water sources may be contaminated.

Rabies Vaccine

Vaccination against rabies is recommended for travellers involved in outdoor activities (e.g., campers, hikers, adventure travellers, and cavers) who may have direct contact with rabid dogs, bats, and other mammals. Those with occupational risks (such as veterinarians, wildlife professionals, researchers) and long-term travellers and expatriates are at higher risk and should be vaccinated.

Medications to Consider

The following is a list of recommended medications for travelling to Kuwait.

None required.

Safety and Security in Kuwait

Emergency Numbers

112

Personal Safety

Violence is rare in Kuwait and the crime rate is low, however, travellers should still be aware of their personal safety.

Women travelling in Kuwait should be aware that there have been reports of physical and verbal harassment towards women. Avoid travelling alone, particularly after dark.

Unexploded munitions from the Gulf War are sometimes found in rural areas and beaches. Do not touch unfamiliar objects and monitor children closely.

The incidence of road accidents is high in Kuwait. Road travel may be dangerous due to reckless driving. Exercise extreme caution in rural areas where roads may be unpaved and unlit at night. Avoid travelling after dark. Use only officially marked taxis.

Crossing the border from Iraq or Saudi Arabia into Kuwait can only be done legally through official border crossings. Borders are patrolled by armed guards.

Always carry a copy of your passport.

It is illegal to consume or possess alcohol or pork products in Kuwait.

Do not take photos of military or government installations or oil fields.

Travellers should take note of whether they will be travelling during the Islamic holy month of Ramadan. During this time, respect the religious practices of the country and avoid eating, drinking and smoking in public between sunrise and sunset. Men and women should always dress and behave conservatively to respect local customs. Avoid public displays of affection.

The rainy season is between December-January and can result in severe flooding. Sand/dust storms can occur at any time of year. Monitor local weather sources closely.

LGBTI travellers should note that same-sex behaviours and relations illegal.

Extreme Violence

There is a high threat of terrorism throughout the Arabian Peninsula and Jordan. Targets usually include public areas, tourist sites, government buildings, and Western interests. Travellers should remain vigilant and exercise caution at all times. Avoid crowded public areas, monitor local news, and obey local authorities.

Political Unrest

Demonstrations and political gatherings sometimes occur, specifically in response to socio-economic conditions. Travellers should avoid demonstrations as they can become violent without warning.

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