Kuwait is a fantastic country with a rich history and a wide range of recreational activities. Although just like every other country, there are some things that you have to keep an eye out for in order to have a safer and much more pleasant trip.
There’s nothing too dangerous or difficult that stops you from traveling to Kuwait. These are just some things that you better know before traveling to Kuwait just so you can better adapt yourself to the country and local people.
Safety of Kuwait
Terrorist attacks are a global threat. Listen closely to cautions from authorities.
Protests and demonstrations are not uncommon, and they may escalate into violence. There was a scuffle between protesters and police. Don’t go to any big public events. Keep an eye out, especially on Fridays during prayer.
The crime rate in Kuwait is among the lowest in the world. Particularly in Jahra and Jleeb Al-Shuyoukh, armed robberies have taken place.
Nighttime driving is more risky owing to both speeding and careless drivers. Do not venture onto unnamed roads.
Extreme weather is expected, so make sure you’re ready. There are frequent dust and sand storms. Temperatures regularly exceed 50 °C from June to September. Between the months of December and January, flooding is possible. Listen to the recommendations of the government.
There is a wide range of quality when it comes to medical care in Kuwait. Some medical facilities, especially private ones, refuse to treat non-citizens. Medical evacuation is necessary if you are in a critical condition. Make sure this is covered by your travel insurance. It can be difficult and costly to arrange for medical evacuation.
Kuwait’s law
Drugs are banned in Kuwait in every form: possession, use, production, and trafficking. The penalties are extremely harsh and may include life in prison or perhaps the death penalty. It is also forbidden to acquire, distribute, import, transport, or use alcoholic beverages. Fines, jail time, and even deportation may be imposed as penalties.
If you need help with a business or family law issue, see a local attorney. In Kuwait, the penalties for certain crimes are far harsher than in most other countries.
The Emir, as the head of state, is subject to rigorous rules in Kuwait. Any form of challenge or insult to the Emir is strictly forbidden. Criticizing regional political issues or people, such as the Emir, via social media is likewise forbidden.
To enter Kuwait, you must first get a visa. You may get a visa on arrival or online. Changes in entry and departure requirements may occur with little warning. For up-to-date information, it is recommended that you get in touch with the nearest Kuwaiti embassy or consulate. Having an Israeli stamp on your passport might get in the way of entering Kuwait.
The Kuwaiti Dinar (KWD) is the official currency in the country. ATMs and other forms of computerized payment processing are popular. Foreign credit cards aren’t always accepted at local businesses.
Kuwait Cultural
Relationships and the LGBTQI+ community are subject to strict laws in Kuwait. Relationships between people of different sexes and crossdressing are both against the law. Transgender people are not legally protected in Kuwait. Hotel rooms are not a place for unmarried people to live together. It is also forbidden for men and women to show public expressions of love toward one another.
Dress and conduct are expected to adhere to traditional norms. Don’t flash somebody in shorts or skintight clothes. The regions of Jahra and Jleeb Al-Shuyoukh require extra caution.
There are Muslims in Kuwait. Pay your respects to the local religions and cultures. Act and dress respectfully in public.
Kuwaitis celebrate the Islamic holy month of Ramadan quite seriously. Avoid being rude or offensive.
People who are fasting would appreciate it if you would refrain from eating, drinking, and smoking in public.
Travel to Kuwait
Landmines and other explosive ordnance litter the desert and several of Kuwait’s beaches. Follow established routes. Don’t go picking up random stuff from the beach.
Without proper documentation, it is risky and illegal to go near the border between Iraq and Saudi Arabia. Border regions are patrolled by armed guards. Stay away from Iraq. If you insist on going there against our advice, prepare the proper travel documentation in advance. Please only cross at designated checkpoints.
Climate of Kuwait
Storms of sand and dust often occur in Kuwait.
The months of June, July, and August are often the warmest and driest in Kuwait. Nighttime lows seldom dip below 30 degrees Celsius, while daytime highs often hover around 50 degrees. Humidity levels are often high in August.
Typically, flooding occurs between December and January.
When extreme weather or a natural calamity strikes:
Keep your passport hidden until you need it.
Follow the instructions of regional authorities and stay in touch with loved ones by keeping an eye on the news and using tools like the Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System.
