About Place
- "A blend of tradition and modernity."
- "An oasis of cultural heritage."
- "Stunning Arabian Gulf coastline."
Reasons to Visit
- Architectural Marvels : Kuwait boasts a stunning skyline featuring iconic structures such as the Kuwait Towers, Liberation Tower, and Al Hamra Tower. The Kuwait Towers are particularly notable, with their distinctive blue-green spheres, providing panoramic views of the city and the Gulf. These architectural masterpieces symbolize Kuwait’s blend of modern innovation and traditional design.
- Cultural Richness : The country offers a deep dive into Arab culture and history through its numerous museums, such as the Tareq Rajab Museum, which houses a vast collection of Islamic arts and artifacts, and the Kuwait National Museum, showcasing the country's heritage. The Grand Mosque, with its intricate Islamic architecture and serene ambiance, also offers insight into Kuwait's religious and cultural practices.
- Natural Beauty and Leisure : Kuwait's coastal location along the Arabian Gulf provides beautiful beaches and waterfronts. The Failaka Island, with its rich history dating back to the Bronze Age, offers a unique blend of archaeological sites and modern-day leisure activities. The island is perfect for those interested in exploring ancient ruins while enjoying the scenic beauty of the Gulf.
Visa
- United States, Canada, Australia, EU countries : Can obtain a visa on arrival or apply for an eVisa.
- GCC countries : Visa-free entry.
- India, China, Russia : Need to apply for a visa in advance through Kuwaiti consulates.
- Other countries : Generally need to apply for a visa before traveling. Always check the latest requirements as they can change.
Travel Expenses
- Travel to & from destination :
- Estimated airfare for a couple : $1,200 (round trip from a major metro city)
- Hotel cost :
- Average cost per night : $150
- Total stay (3 nights) : $450
- Food cost :
- Average meal cost per person : $25
- Total cost for lunch and dinner (3 days) : $300
- Activity cost :
- Kuwait Towers entry : $15
- National Museum entry : $10
- Grand Mosque entry : Free
- Tareq Rajab Museum entry : $10
- Ferry to Failaka Island : $50
- Total : $85
- Near destination travel cost :
- Car rental per day : $50
- Total car rental (3 days) : $150
Total Estimated Travel Expenses : $2,185
Best Itinerary
Day 1 : Arrival and City Exploration Arrive in Kuwait City and check into your hotel. Start your day with a visit to the iconic Kuwait Towers, exploring the observation deck for panoramic views of the city from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM. For lunch, head to Mais Alghanim Restaurant to savor traditional Kuwaiti dishes. In the afternoon, visit the Kuwait National Museum from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM, learning about the country's rich history and culture. Spend the evening strolling along the Kuwait Corniche, enjoying the beautiful waterfront and city lights. Dinner at Al Boom Steak and Seafood Restaurant offers a luxurious dining experience aboard a traditional dhow. End the night with a relaxing walk back to your hotel.
Day 2 : Cultural and Historical Sites Begin your day with a visit to the Grand Mosque from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM, marveling at its magnificent architecture and serene ambiance. Have lunch at Freej Swaileh Restaurant, known for its authentic Kuwaiti cuisine. In the afternoon, explore the Tareq Rajab Museum from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM, where you can admire a vast collection of Islamic art and artifacts. Head to Souk Al-Mubarakiya in the evening from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM for a traditional shopping experience, where you can find local spices, textiles, and souvenirs. Enjoy dinner at Beit Dickson, a restaurant offering a blend of Kuwaiti and international dishes. Conclude your night with a visit to the Liberation Tower for a night view of the city.
Day 3 : Failaka Island Adventure Take an early morning ferry to Failaka Island, departing at 8:00 AM. Upon arrival, explore the island’s archaeological sites and Greek ruins until noon. Enjoy a picnic lunch on the beach, with local specialties prepared in advance. Spend the afternoon relaxing by the shore, swimming, or partaking in water sports. Return to Kuwait City by evening, and dine at Dar Hamad Restaurant, known for its elegant ambiance and delicious Kuwaiti cuisine. End your day with a relaxing evening at your hotel, perhaps enjoying a spa treatment or a quiet night in.
Safety Tips
- Always carry a copy of your passport and visa.
- Respect local customs and dress modestly.
- Stay hydrated, especially during the hot months.
- Use reputable taxi services or car rentals.
- Avoid public displays of affection.
- Do not photograph government buildings or military installations.
- Keep emergency numbers handy.
- Avoid discussing sensitive political topics.
- Be cautious of your belongings in crowded places.
- Purchase travel insurance for health and travel contingencies.
Flights
- Kuwait Airways : Direct flight, approximately 5 hours, cost around $600.
- Emirates : One-stop flight via Dubai, approximately 8 hours, cost around $650.
- Qatar Airways : One-stop flight via Doha, approximately 8 hours, cost around $650.
Hotels
- Jumeirah Messilah Beach Hotel & Spa
- Symphony Style Hotel Kuwait
- Marina Hotel Kuwait
- Movenpick Hotel Kuwait
- Four Points by Sheraton Kuwait
Contacts
- Indian Embassy in Kuwait :
- Phone : +965 22530600
- Email : cons1.kuwait@mea.gov.in
- Police, Ambulance, and Firefighters :
- Emergency number : 112
Country
Closet Airport
Kuwait International Airport (KWI)
Nearest City
Kuwait City
Heritage Sites
Failaka Island (archaeological sites)
Airlines
Kuwait Airways
Emirates
Qatar Airways
Etihad Airways
Turkish Airlines
Currency
Kuwaiti Dinar (KWD)
Languages Spoken
- Arabic
Real Story
In 1990, Kuwait was invaded by Iraq, an event that significantly impacted the country's history and international relations. The invasion began on August 2, 1990, when Iraqi forces, led by President Saddam Hussein, overran Kuwait. The justification for the invasion was rooted in a complex mix of economic disputes, territorial claims, and political tensions.
Iraq accused Kuwait of overproducing oil and driving down prices, which hurt the Iraqi economy, heavily indebted from the Iran-Iraq War. Furthermore, Iraq claimed that Kuwait was historically part of its territory, a notion based on the boundaries established during the Ottoman Empire.
The invasion was met with swift condemnation from the international community. The United Nations Security Council imposed economic sanctions on Iraq and demanded an immediate withdrawal of Iraqi forces from Kuwait. Despite these pressures, Iraq proceeded to annex Kuwait, declaring it as its 19th province.
The occupation lasted until February 1991, during which time the Kuwaiti resistance engaged in various acts of defiance against the Iraqi regime. The brutal occupation saw widespread looting, destruction of infrastructure, and severe human rights abuses.
The liberation of Kuwait began with Operation Desert Storm on January 17, 1991, led by a coalition of forces from 35 countries under the mandate of the United Nations. The coalition, spearheaded by the United States, launched a massive air campaign followed by a ground offensive that swiftly defeated the Iraqi forces.
By February 28, 1991, Kuwait was liberated, and the ruling Al-Sabah family was restored to power. The aftermath of the invasion left Kuwait with significant economic and environmental challenges, including the devastation of its oil industry due to sabotaged oil wells, which led to massive fires and environmental damage.
The liberation of Kuwait remains a pivotal moment in the country's history, symbolizing resilience and the importance of international cooperation in upholding sovereignty and peace.
Cuisine
Kuwaiti cuisine is a delightful blend of Arabian, Persian, Indian, and Mediterranean influences. Traditional dishes are rich in flavor and often feature rice, meat, and spices. A staple of Kuwaiti cuisine is machboos, a spiced rice dish usually served with chicken or lamb. Another popular dish is harees, made from wheat and meat, slow-cooked to a porridge-like consistency. Kuwaiti sweets, such as darabeel (rolled pancakes filled with sugar and spices) and baklava, are also integral to the local culinary scene. The diverse flavors reflect Kuwait's history as a crossroads of trade and culture.
Culture and History
Kuwait's culture is deeply rooted in its Bedouin heritage, Islamic traditions, and its unique position as a historical trading hub in the Gulf region. The influence of Bedouin culture is seen in traditional music, dance, and poetry, which are celebrated during national holidays and cultural festivals. Islamic customs play a significant role in daily life, influencing everything from dress codes to dietary restrictions.
The architectural landscape of Kuwait reflects its history and modernity. The ancient souks like Souk Al-Mubarakiya, with their labyrinthine alleys and vibrant stalls, coexist with modern skyscrapers such as the Al Hamra Tower, the tallest building in Kuwait. The Kuwait Towers stand as a symbol of the country's post-independence aspirations and its embrace of contemporary architecture.
Kuwait has a rich history as part of the Mesopotamian civilization, with archaeological sites on Failaka Island revealing its significance in the ancient world. The island showcases remnants from the Bronze Age and the Hellenistic period, reflecting its historical importance as a cultural and trade center.
Contemporary Kuwaiti culture is also shaped by its diverse expatriate population, with influences from various countries contributing to the rich tapestry of its social fabric. This diversity is particularly evident in the culinary scene, where traditional Kuwaiti dishes like machboos and harees are enjoyed alongside international cuisines.