The State of Kuwait, a significant Arab emirate nestled along the Persian Gulf, is bordered by Saudi Arabia to the south and Iraq to the north and west. Kuwait, whose name means “fortress built near water,” is a nation rich in history and culture, with an area of 17,818 km². As a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary system, Kuwait City serves as the country’s vibrant political and economic capital.
A Glimpse into History: Kuwait’s recorded history dates back to 1613 when tribes from central Arabia, seeking refuge from drought, settled in this area. Initially a key hub for spice trade between India and Europe, Kuwait transitioned to a pearl-diving economy by the late 18th century. In 1756, Sabah I bin Jaber was elected as the first emir of Kuwait, founding the Al-Sabah ruling family that continues to lead the nation. After centuries under Ottoman influence, Kuwait gained full independence from the United Kingdom on June 19, 1961, solidifying its sovereignty and replacing the Gulf rupee with the Kuwaiti dinar.
Geography, Environment, & Climate: Located in the northeast corner of the Arabian Peninsula, Kuwait is one of the world’s smallest countries by land area. Dominated by the flat, sandy Arabian Desert, Kuwait’s landscape is largely arid, with sparse vegetation along its 499 km coastline. The country boasts nine islands, with Bubiyan being the largest, though most are uninhabited. Kuwait City, the capital, is positioned on Kuwait Bay, a natural deep-water harbor.
Kuwait experiences an arid continental climate, with scorching summers from May to September, where temperatures can soar above 45°C (113°F). Winters, from November through February, bring cooler weather with some rainfall, and temperatures ranging from -2°C to 27°C.
Population: As of 2024, Kuwait’s population stands at approximately 5 million, with nearly 2 million non-nationals. Kuwaiti citizens are a minority in their own country, and the government rarely grants citizenship to expatriates. While Arabic is the official language, English is widely spoken, making it easier for expats to navigate daily life. Islam is the predominant religion, with 85% of the population practicing it, though there are significant communities of Christians, Hindus, and Buddhists.
Currency: The currency of Kuwait is the Kuwaiti Dinar (KD), known for being one of the highest-valued currencies in the world. It’s important for expats to familiarize themselves with this currency for their daily transactions.
Living as an Expat: Housing, Essentials, and More: Renting accommodation in Kuwait is generally a straightforward process. Many international companies offer housing arrangements for their employees, often securing long-term leases on properties. If you need to find your own accommodation, your local sponsor will typically assist you. There’s a wide range of housing options available to suit various budgets. “Unfurnished” properties might include basic essentials such as kitchen units, curtain rails, and lighting fixtures. Some may be semi-furnished with appliances like a cooker, refrigerator, and washing machine. Rental contracts are usually formalized with the property owner through your sponsor.
Getting There & Around: Kuwait is well-connected, with the Kuwait Public Transport Company operating modern buses to various destinations beyond its borders. The Kuwait International Airport is a modern facility, with plans for expansion to include a second terminal.
Within Kuwait, the local bus system is affordable and extensive, although it caters more to residents than tourists. If you’re up for a bit of walking, bus travel can be an economical way to explore the city. Car hire is also an option, with daily rates ranging from KD10 for a basic sedan to KD30 for a larger SUV, typically including unlimited kilometers and full insurance.