21 Secrets About Living In Kuwait To Know Before Moving

Thinking of moving to Kuwait but want to know more about the country? Let’s dig into its traditions, cultural differences, employment opportunities, the international community living there, the work-life balance, and much more.

We’ll talk you through 21 secrets about living in Kuwait that you need to know before going!

Sections

1. English is widely spoken

While Arabic is the official language of Kuwait, if you’re struggling to get your head around learning the new language, that’s ok! English is widely spoken too, including in shops, hospitals, and many businesses.

But to make the most of your new expat life in this small country, it’s advised that you try to learn the lingo.

2. The cost of living in Kuwait

Somewhat because of high salaries, Kuwait isn’t cheap, and it’s something that can be quite the culture shock to Western expats living in the Middle Eastern country!

Thankfully, many employers provide housing as rent prices can be high, but they usually include utilities.

Food prices are higher than in the USA, mainly due to import charges – almost everything is imported into Kuwait. Sometimes it’s cheaper to eat out in a restaurant, although Kuwait has some extremely pricey eateries, so bear this in mind before you decide to dine out!

Thankfully, at least for now, petrol prices are pretty low compared to Western countries.

3. Work Visas

Those coming from abroad who want to work in the country are legally required to obtain a Kuwaiti work visa and permits (Iqama) before commencing employment. Immigration laws dictate that a work visa must be secured by sponsorship from their soon-to-be employer.

This brings us to our next point…

4. Employment in Kuwait

The expatriate community makes up the majority of the Kuwaiti workforce, so you will likely work with people worldwide!

Employment is generally easy to come by, but this depends on your chosen profession. Kuwaiti citizens work six out of seven days per week, covering 48 hours – but again, this depends on your career. It’s essential that, if you can’t commit to these hours, you discuss it during the interview stage, as many employers can be flexible regarding this general rule of thumb.

Learning Arabic will also massively improve your chances of finding a job here: most expats have at least a real hold of the official language. Employers and Kuwaiti citizens tend to appreciate foreigners making an effort!

5. Kuwaiti cuisine

Kuwaiti food is packed with flavor and comprises a wide variety of mouthwatering dishes to try. The entire cuisine of the country is vibrant and beautiful to look at.

Fish is one of the main staples, and so are a variety of meats, including chicken and lamb. The most famous Kuwaiti dish is Machboos, a large plate of rice, meat, or fish covered in a thick tomato-based sauce called daqqus and topped with spices and caramelized onions. It is nothing short of delicious!

However, if you are missing your home comforts, fear not, as there is a surprisingly wide variety of American food options to choose from if you fancy a taste of home.

6. What about the weather?

In Kuwait, winters tend to be mild, but the summer months? Not so much.

In 2021, for example, Kuwait reached almost unbelievable temperatures of 127.7 degrees Fahrenheit, which made it the hottest place on earth!

Best pack your sunscreen before you travel abroad to the country!

7. The education system is outstanding

Children’s education in Kuwait is high, with government spending on the public education system drastically increasing over the last few years.

Although expensive, Western private schools are popular with expats, with many sending their children to international schools. While the ISK is extremely popular, there are many different private schools to choose from.

8. Kuwaiti culture

Although Kuwait is a country dedicated to working hard, Kuwaitis know the importance of their time off.

Work starts at 7 AM, and in the hot, humid summer months, siestas are commonplace, usually covering most of the afternoon from noon.

In the evenings and on days off, Kuwaitis love to spend time with their families, including their extended families, which are usually very large!

9. Housing and accommodation

Many expats are offered accommodation when they take up employment in the country. This accommodation is usually in apartment buildings with utility bills included in the rent. Many come with communal swimming pools and a manager who will clean out bins and even wash your car for a small monthly fee.

10. They love sports

The Kuwaitis really love their sport, and in particular, soccer. They also love basketball and cricket, and falconry!

11. Getting around in Kuwait

Kuwait’s transport network is almost entirely contained within Kuwait City. Moreover, all transport is road-based, though there are plans by the Kuwaiti government to introduce a metro network.

Driving is the most common form of transport in Kuwait. The only option for public transport is using a bus as there is no railway system, subway, or trams in Kuwait. If choosing to get a cab, beware that some Kuwait Bay taxi drivers have been known to attempt to overcharge expats massively.

12. Kuwait offers free but low-quality healthcare

There’s bad news for expats regarding healthcare in the Muslim country.

The Kuwaiti government has begun segregating local and expat patients and local and foreign medical staff. They have even started reserving certain times of the day for Kuwaiti nationals only. Kuwaitis always prioritize healthcare, so unless you have private medical insurance giving you access to private hospitals, expect to wait a long time to be treated.

13. Taxes in Kuwait

The tax laws in Kuwait are one of the main selling points for foreigners wanting to move to the country. In Kuwait, employees do not pay any personal income tax – yes, you read that right!

All government income comes from oil, and taxes impose on foreign corporations. Just think of all that disposable tax-free income you’d have to spend!

14. Kuwait is a very friendly place

Kuwait is an amiable country, and it’s a big draw for expats moving there. Generally speaking, Kuwaitis are polite and friendly to strangers and expect the same treatment. Having such big, open hearts means the Kuwaitis are often very keen to welcome strangers into their homes. It’s considered disrespectful to refuse to come in for a coffee and a chat.

Kuwaiti men will usually shake hands as part of an introduction but seldom do the same to a woman – unless the woman initiates the gesture.

15. The Liberation Tower is the symbol of Kuwaiti liberation

The Liberation Tower is a must-see when first moving to Kuwait. After the Al Hamra Firdous Tower, the Liberation Tower is the tallest building in Kuwait, measuring 1200 feet.

It’s not only the size of the tower that makes it noteworthy. It also has a tremendous historical significance.

Construction on the tower began in 1990, just before Iraq invaded the country. Work quickly stopped on the building, but it was eventually completed when the Iraqs left Kuwait. It was named the Liberation Tower to commemorate the country’s liberation from Iraq.

Although not open to the public, it is a significant landmark to visit, particularly at night when lit up.

16. Kuwait has nine islands

Kuwait has nine stunning islands surrounding it. They are:

Bubiyan
Umm Al-Maradim
Umm Al-Naml
Miskan
Warba
Auhha
Kubbar
Failaka
Qaruh

Bubiyan is the largest, having an area of more than 860 sq km. It’s connected to the mainland by a bridge.

17. Falcons are found everywhere in Kuwait

The falcon is the national bird of Kuwait, with images of the bird of prey being on the country’s stamps and currency.

Kuwaitis have even been known to pay upward of $3000 for a falcon and purchase airline seats so their new feathered friend can travel beside them!

18. Crime levels in Kuwait are very low

You’ll be relieved to know that, thanks to low crime rates, Kuwait is considered a very safe country for expats, with incidences of crime against the expat community being almost zero.

Terrorist-related attacks are also not common, although in 2005, 27 people were killed and over 200 injured in a terrorist attack on a mosque in Kuwait during the holy month of Ramadan.

19. Kuwait has no lakes or rivers

Kuwait is unique because it contains no lakes or rivers that flow year-round. There are, however, streams that flow seasonally, known as wadis, after it rains in the winter. There are also deep desert basins in the north and west which sometimes fill with rainwater. These have been used for centuries as watering holes for camels.

20. Work-life balance in Kuwait

The local culture dictates that employees in the Middle Eastern should work 48 hours a week, over six days. That’s a lot of time to spend at work, leaving very little time for a social life and family commitments.

However, it can be done. Speaking to your employer before you accept a job offer will often mean that your hours can be reduced, leaving room for the essential things in life.

21. Kuwait is one of the richest countries in the world

Kuwait is one of the world’s wealthiest countries, with an impressive GNI per capita of almost $60,000. In fact, the World Bank estimates Kuwait to be the fifth richest country worldwide.

Much of the reason for the country’s wealth revolves around the oil industry, with the sector being responsible for almost 90% of the country’s exports.

FAQs

What is Kuwait City known for?

It is the largest city in Kuwait and the country’s capital. Sitting on the south shore, it has stunning views of an enviable coastline. It also has many high-end restaurants and some of the most beautiful architecture that this small but beautiful country has to offer.

The city is viewed as the hub of Kuwait, containing many private hospitals, international schools, governmental buildings and offices, corporations, and the famous Seif Palace.

Is Kuwait a part of the UAE?

No, both the UAE and Kuwait are two separate nations.

Kuwait is an independent nation in the northern Middle East, while the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a southern Middle East nation. Like other Gulf countries, both are steeped in Arab traditions and rich customs that can sometimes pose a slight culture shock for foreign workers!

How big is the Kuwait city mall?

The Avenues Mall in the city is huge! Almost 3.5 million square feet, in fact! It’s said to be the second biggest shopping mall in the Middle East. First built in the early 2000s, the mall comprises two separate parts, the Grand Avenue and the Grand Plaza, and combined, they have over 800 stores. That’s a lot of places to spend your tax-free income!

And have no fear of limited parking spaces, the car park has room for more than 10,000 cars!

Shopping at The Avenues Mall is definitely an experience to be seen in order to be believed!

What’s the national dress code in Kuwait?

While there is no compulsory dress code compared to other countries neighboring Kuwait, the local population tends to dress more conservatively than those in the West. Men generally wear a white cotton shirt that reaches ankle length, known as a thwab, and an outer coat (a bisht) for formal occasions.

Women generally wear traditional attire comprising a black abaya, covering their arms and shoulders and reaching below the ankles, alongside having their hair covered. Many women also prefer to cover both their hands and face.

Final Thoughts

Deciding on moving to Kuwait might be challenging, but we hope we’ve helped you make up your mind with our expert guide to the top 21 secrets you need to know before you go!