travelling kuwait

Update April 12, 2024

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Kuwait Travel Advisory

Travel advisory july 13, 2023, kuwait - level 1: exercise normal precautions.

Last Update: Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed. 

Exercise normal precautions in Kuwait. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Do not travel to:

• The desert region near the border with Iraq due to the  prevalence of unexploded ordnance.

Exercise increased caution in:

• The Jeleeb Al-Shuyoukh area in Kuwait City due to  crime .

Due to risks to civil aviation operating within the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman region, including Kuwait, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued an advisory Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM) and/or a Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR). For more information U.S. citizens should consult the  Federal Aviation Administration’s Prohibitions, Restrictions and Notices .

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Kuwait.

If you decide to travel to Kuwait:

• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Stay alert in locations frequented and venues frequented by large groups of people and travelers or tourists.
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook   and  Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Kuwait.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel.
• U.S. citizens who travel abroad should always have a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

Desert Region North of the Mutla’a Ridge and Near the Border with Iraq – Level 4: Do Not Travel

Desert areas and certain beaches north of the Mutla’a Ridge continue to contain unexploded ordnance left over from the 1990-1991 Gulf War. Travelers should avoid areas that are “off the beaten path” and avoid touching objects that are potentially unexploded ordnance.

Visit our website for  Travel to High-Risk Areas .

Jeleeb Al-Shuyoukh – Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

The Kuwaiti Ministry of Interior has identified the neighborhood of Jeleeb Al-Shuyoukh on the outskirts of Kuwait International Airport as a high-crime area.

Travel Advisory Levels

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Kuwait Travel Restrictions

Traveler's COVID-19 vaccination status

Traveling from the United States to Kuwait

Open for vaccinated visitors

COVID-19 testing

Not required

Not required for vaccinated visitors

Restaurants

Not required in public spaces, enclosed environments and public transportation.

Kuwait entry details and exceptions

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Can I travel to Kuwait from the United States?

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Kuwait.

Can I travel to Kuwait if I am vaccinated?

Fully vaccinated visitors from the United States can enter Kuwait without restrictions.

Can I travel to Kuwait without being vaccinated?

Unvaccinated visitors from the United States can enter Kuwait without restrictions.

Do I need a COVID test to enter Kuwait?

Visitors from the United States are not required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test or antigen result upon entering Kuwait.

Can I travel to Kuwait without quarantine?

Travelers from the United States are not required to quarantine.

Do I need to wear a mask in Kuwait?

Mask usage in Kuwait is not required in public spaces, enclosed environments and public transportation.

Are the restaurants and bars open in Kuwait?

Restaurants in Kuwait are open. Bars in Kuwait are .

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Kuwait travel guide: everything you need to know as the country extends travel restrictions

Travellers from 15 countries must provide pcr test results before arriving in kuwait.

Here's what to know if you're travelling to Kuwait. Getty 

Kuwait has extended travel restrictions in place across the country that prohibit non-citizens from flying into Kuwait International Airport.

The country's Civil Aviation Authority has banned non-Kuwaiti citizens from flying to Kuwait until further notice.

The decision was based on the instruction of health authorities and part of coronavirus restriction measures, the authority said on Twitter.

الطيران المدني : بناء على تعليمات السلطات الصحية تقرر تمديد العمل بقرار منع دخول الركاب غير الكويتيين لدولة الكويت حتى اشعار آخر مع استمرار دخول الركاب الكويتيين وخضوعهم للحجر المؤسسي في أحد الفنادق المحلية المعتمدة لمدة 7 أيام واستكمال مدة الحجر 7 أيام الأخرى في الحجر المنزلي . pic.twitter.com/qlF0efdLCB — الطيران المدني (@Kuwait_DGCA) February 20, 2021

Kuwait Airport had been set to reopen to more travellers on February 21, when travel restrictions were due to ease.

Commercial passenger flights were gearing up to once again be allowed to accept non-Kuwaiti citizens.

Airlines had been advised they would have to bear the cost of Covid-19 testing for passengers, according to a circular from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation.

Travel to Kuwait has been restricted since February 7 when authorities closed borders to all travellers except Kuwaiti nationals and their first-degree relatives, domestic workers and medical professionals.

With the country extending restrictions and changing quarantine rules, here’s a guide to what you need to know if you’re planning to fly to Kuwait.

Who can fly to Kuwait?

Tourists and non-Kuwaiti citizens cannot fly to Kuwait.

Until further notice, only Kuwaiti citizens, their first-degree relatives, domestic workers, diplomats and medical professionals can fly to the country.

Who cannot fly to Kuwait?

Non-citizens including those with valid residency permits and GCC citizens will need to wait to travel to Kuwait.

When restrictions ease, travellers who have been in or transited through any country on the restricted list cannot enter Kuwait unless they spend 14 days in a non-restricted destination. This does not apply to Kuwaiti citizens..

List of restricted countries

• Afghanistan
• Bosnia and Herzegovina
• Dominican Republic
• North Macedonia
• Philippines
• United Kingdom

Kuwait remains closed to tourists. No visitors have been permitted to travel to the country since March 2020 and visa on arrival facilities are suspended.

What do I need to do before I fly to Kuwait?

Kuwaiti Prime Minister Sheikh Sabah Al Khaled Al Sabah receives a Pfizer-BioTech Covid-19 vaccine injection at a vaccination centre in the capital Kuwait City. AFP

Anyone planning to fly to Kuwait must have a negative PCR test. The PCR test must be conducted no more than 72 hours before acceptance on any flight to Kuwait and the result should be in English.

Visitors from 15 countries must submit their PCR test result before arriving in the country. This can be done via Kuwait's Medical Utility Network Accreditor system. The rule applies immediately to visitors from India, the Philippines, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and Nepal.

Travellers from the UAE, Oman, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Qatar, Egypt, Jordan, France, the UK and the US must follow these new rules from Thursday, March 25.

Passengers must also download the Shlonik contact tracing app and the  Kuwait Mosafer app before travelling to Kuwait. Negative PCR certificates need to be scanned on the Kuwait Mosafer app.

When checking in for any flight to Kuwait, travellers will have to pay 60 Kuwaiti dinars (Dh729) for two subsequent PCR tests, as requested by Kuwaiti authorities.

What rules are in place at the airport?

Passengers arriving in Kuwait will be required to go through thermal screening and then undergo the first of their two prepaid Covid-19 PCR tests.

ارشادات عامة عند التواجد في مطار الكويت الدولي . General instructions when at Kuwait International Airport pic.twitter.com/Oit4dFQKL0 — Kuwait Airways (@KuwaitAirways) February 10, 2021

Kuwait Airli`nes has also reminded travellers of mandatory rules in place at the airport including compulsory face masks, social distancing and hand sanitising every 30 minutes.

Which airlines are flying to Kuwait?

Commercial flights to and from Kuwait are operating at a reduced capacity of 35 passengers per flight. Several airlines continue to fly to and from the country including Kuwait Airlines, Emirates, Flydubai, Etihad and Jazeera Airways.

Until further notice, only Kuwaiti nationals, their relatives and those on the exemption list will be accepted for boarding.

Do I need to quarantine in a hotel?

From Sunday, anyone arriving in Kuwait will have to undergo self-funded compulsory quarantine for seven days in a designated hotel, followed by a further seven days of home isolation. This is bookable in advance, via the Ministry of Health.

This has changed from the previous rule which demanded 14 days of home isolation.

Only diplomats, Kuwaiti patients who travelled overseas for medical treatment, Kuwaiti students studying overseas, medical crews and unaccompanied minors are exempt from hotel quarantine.

How much will quarantine cost?

The Kuwait Hotel Owners Association (KHOA) has announced recommended prices for each hotel category, according to local media.

For three-star hotels, the room rate has been set at KD20 (Dh243) per night for a standard single room and KD30 (Dh364) for a double room with breakfast and airport transfer.

Four-star hotels will cost KD30 (Dh364) per night for a standard single room or KD40 (Dh486) for a double room with breakfast and airport transfer.

Those looking to quarantine in luxury look set to pay KD45 (Dh546) per night for a standard single room and KD55 (Dh668) for a double room with breakfast and airport transfer in a five-star hotel.

The hotel quarantine policy will run until at least Sunday, March 21, when it will be reviewed.

Getty Images/Lonely Planet Images

Cradled between Saudi Arabia and Iraq in one of the most ancient and contested corners of the world, Kuwait has a certain cachet. It may be as oil-rich as other Gulf countries, and its architectural landscape as experimental and audacious, but it hasn't embraced glitz and glamour in the same way: perhaps it's the years lost to the Iraqi invasion and its aftermath, or maybe it's a conscious decision not to give in to commercialism.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Tareq Rajab Museum

Kuwait City

Housed in the basement of a large villa, this exquisite ethnographic museum should not be missed. There are inlaid musical instruments suspended in glass…

Souq Mubarakiya

Once the centre of trade before the nation found oil, Kuwait City's old souq has retained its sprawling, bustling glory. The historical centre of the…

Grand Mosque

The largest of the city’s 800 mosques, opened in 1986, completely survived the Iraqi invasion. It cost KD14 million (US$46 million) to build, with…

Scientific Center

One of the largest aquariums in the Middle East is housed in this sail-shaped building. The giant spider crabs (3.8m leg to leg), fluorescent jellyfish…

Mirror House

For a brilliantly bizarre art-in-action experience, visit this residential house covered with mirror mosaics. It's the creation of gloriously eccentric…

Dar Al Athar Al Islamiyya

This exceptional cultural centre has stunning galleries that contain some of the highlights of the world-class Al Sabah Collection, part of which was in…

Kuwait Towers

The Kuwait Towers, with their distinctive blue-green ‘sequins’, are the instantly recognisable symbols of the nation. Designed by a Swedish architectural…

Al Qurain Martyrs’ Museum

In the residential suburb of Qurain, this excellent small museum is a sobering memorial to a cell of young Kuwaitis who tried to resist Iraqi arrest in…

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Kuwait and beyond

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Tourist information and travel tips.

Kuwait is a small, oil-rich constitutional emirate, with foreign workers constituting 90 percent of the labour force. Kuwaiti nationals constitute 1.1million of the 3.4million population in the country, and they get to enjoy the benefits of a generous social welfare system that guarantees employment, housing, education and healthcare.

Kuwait City has numerous attractions which include excellent museums, a corniche ornamented with combed beaches and extravagant restaurants, modern shopping complexes and marinas, long and lazy retreats, and new beach resorts.

Outside Kuwait City, however, there are only few attractions, except at resorts along the coast. Tourist development of the historical Failaka Island is still in developmental stage. There are flat desert plains that are given over for oil excavation, and there are few distinctive features.

West of Kuwait City is the Al-Jahra area, the place that unfortunately famed for the violence that took place there as Iraqi troops retreated during the Gulf War. Considering the numerous building projects there, it is possible to almost overlook the Iraqi invasions, and a decade has passed since the invasion. But, Kuwaitis are still coming out of their devastating experience, as there visible reminders of the war.

As for travellers, while in Kuwait, there are some definite rules that need to be followed to avoid any faux-pas, so that local populace is not offended. Further, the tips given herein can help you in taking care of all that you need to, before planning a trip to Kuwait .

What is the best time to visit Kuwait?

Kuwait's weather pattern is similar to that of Europe, although the weather here is hotter and drier. Summers (April to October) are hot and humid with very little rain. Winters (November to March) are cool with limited rain, while Spring (February to April) is cool and pleasant.

If you happen to visit Kuwait in summer, there are plenty of air-conditioned amenities to make your summer visit tolerable. The winter months are chilly in the evenings, but, with pleasant daytime temperatures. During Spring, the desert is laced in a transparent lime green, decorated with petunias, making it the ideal time to visit.

• Transportation

Kuwait has cheap and well-spread transport system with local and intercity buses that operate round-the-clock. Taxis charge a flat rate between the city and airport. Local taxis without meters are available for getting around. To hire a car, one must have an International Driving Permit.

Women travellers / travellers with special needs

Women travelling alone may have some problems entering and leaving the country, or when getting around the country, or staying in a hotel by themselves. Check with your local Kuwaiti Consulate, before travelling, to ensure all is fine, and get a contact name and number.

Women have reported stray incidences of harassment, in areas around the Salmiya locality, but, most shopkeepers are willing to help out if someone is especially persistent. Female travellers should keep in mind the cultural differences among several people who co-exist in Kuwait, and should be aware that unwitting actions may invite unwanted attention. Female travellers may dress modestly and generally maintain a low profile, as it may deter harassment. General modesty of behaviour and dress is expected in public. Women wearing shorts or tight-fitting clothes, particularly in downtown areas are likely to attract unwelcome attention.

Individuals with special needs may find accessibility and accommodation easy in Kuwait , as the law mandates access to buildings for people with disabilities. The government enforces such provisions, and also supervises and contributes to schools and job training programs that cater to people with special needs.

A visa is required by all visitors to Kuwait , except GCC nationals, who have the right to enter and live in Kuwait without having to go through any particular formalities.

Nationals from several other countries, including Canada, Australia, US and the EU are eligible to apply for a Kuwait Visa online (eVisa). The online application process is quite simple and quick, as the applicants just have to answer a series of basic questions. Also, all expatriates residing in GCC countries, irrespective of their citizenship, can apply for eVisa Kuwait.

Prior to the introduction of eVisa system in Kuwait (before 2016), visitors had to visit an embassy or consulate, or line up at the border points to obtain a visa. With the eVisa now made available, this process is easier. However, other types of Kuwait Visa procedures are still available.

Upon submitting the Visa application form online, a copy of the visa will be sent to the applicant by email. For entering Kuwait, the visitor can show a copy of this visa along with their passport to the concerned authorities at the Kuwaiti border.

It should be noted that visitors who enter Kuwait are not allowed to work. If you wish to work in Kuwait , you should obtain a residence visa and a work permit.

The types of visas include a Visit Visa with validity period of 1 month, a Business Visa (validity of 6 months), Transit visa (validity of 1 week) and Tourist visa (valid for 3 months) and Residence visa (valid for 10 years, but, civil ID needs to be renewed annually).

Among the non-GCC countries, nationals of the below said countries will be granted visa on arrival in Kuwait, or they may take an e-visa prior to their arrival in Kuwait.

Such countries include All European Union nations, Andorra, Australia, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Brunei, Cambodia, Canada, Georgia, Hong Kong, Iceland, India, Japan, Laos, Liechtenstein, Malaysia, Monaco, New Zealand, Norway, Pakistan, San Marino, Serbia, Singapore, South Korea, Swaziland, Switzerland, Turkey, United States, Vatican City and Vietnam.

If you have an Israeli stamp in your passport, you may be refused visa, or if you plan to enter Kuwait over land from Iraq, you could obtain a visa in advance.

Travellers who overstay their visas, or do not complete Kuwaiti exit procedures, may be required to pay huge fines before departing Kuwait, and/or are likely to be imprisoned.

Kuwait Tourist Visa (e-visa)

This Kuwait online visa or eVisa enables you to visit Kuwait and travel around for touristic purpose.  All foreign nationals and residents in GCC countries, irrespective of their nationalities are eligible to apply for a Kuwait eVisa.  Those seeking a Kuwait Online Visa will have to complete an online application with their biographical information and valid travel document, passport information.

The processing time may be between one day and three business days. Once approved, the visitor will be sent an email of the eVisa, thereby saving him the hassle of going to an embassy or consulate to submit a visa application. The Kuwait Online Visa has a validity of  90 days  and is a  single-entry visa . For online application, visit  https://evisa.moi.gov.kw/evisa/home_e.do

Kuwait has also implemented biometrics, and fingerprints, which will be taken for both visitor and resident visa holders on entry and exit.

For further information on entry and exit requirements, travellers can contact their respective embassy in Kuwait.

Kuwait Customs

Kuwaiti customs authorities enforce strict regulations for temporary importation into or export from Kuwait on items such as religious materials, firearms, pornography and alcohol. Alcohol, pork products and pornography are considered illegal in Kuwait.

Travellers with prescription medications should carry them in their original packaging or bottle, as dispensed, along with a copy of their prescription, in case the authorities question about their importation to Kuwait.

Before visiting Kuwait, it is important to keep in mind that pork, alcohol, homosexuality, heterosexual sex outside marriage, pornography and cross-dressing are illegal.

All alcoholic beverages and associated materials, beef, pigs, pork, pigskin products (such as handbags, wallets), are denied entry into Kuwait.

A special permit from the Kuwait Ministry of Interior will be required to legally import any weapons into the country. Jewels, precious stones and metals may be imported subject to approval by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.

Authority should be obtained from the Health Ministry for drugs and medicines. Pets and other animals imported into the country will require Veterinarian Health Certification, and permission from General Directorate for Agricultural and Sea Wealth. All birds species originating from Italy, Malaysia, Jordan, Albania, Palestine, Thailand, Ukraine and Zimbabwe, and animals from Iraq are banned entry into Kuwait.

Baggages of all travellers are screened before entry into Kuwait.

Accommodation

Visitors to Kuwait should have accommodation and all such set-up beforehand, as independent travel is fairly new to the country. Hotels here range from deluxe to first and second class. Several top hotels in Kuwait feature restaurants, sport complexes and shopping malls. Serviced apartments with hotel-style room service are also available. Prices are usually high. All rates are subject to 15 percent service charge.

Contact your General Physician at least eight weeks prior to your trip to Kuwait, to check if you need any vaccinations or other preventive measures. Kuwait has a state medical service with local clinics and several good hospitals. Nationals can avail healthcare at low cost in government clinics. Apart from this, there are several doctors and dentists in private practice/hospitals. However, the fees are controlled by the State and are expensive. Ensure that you have adequate travel health insurance and accessible funds to cover cost of medical treatment while in Kuwait and repatriation.

In case of any medical emergency, dial 112 for assistance. In case you are referred to a medical facility for treatment, contact your insurance/medical assistance company. When taking travel and medical insurance before travelling, check for any exclusions, and check if your policy covers you for all activities you wish to undertake.

Recommended travel vaccinations for Kuwait include Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid, Rabies, Anthrax, Meningitis, Measles, Polio, Mumps, MMR, Tdap (Tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis), Chickenpox, Shingles, Pneumonia and Influenza.

Dengue is present in Kuwait. Repellents or netting are recommended for a trip to Kuwait, especially along the coast.

Personal Safety

There is general threat from terrorism, and terrorists continue to issue statements threatening to carry out attacks in the Gulf region. The attacks, therefore, cannot be ruled out, and may be indiscriminate, including in places frequented by expats and foreign travellers.

International events and political developments (including elections) may also prompt demonstrations in Kuwait. You should take particular care in the areas of Jahra, Sulaibaya and areas near the border with Iraq. 

Just as in any other country, it is best to maintain a high level of security awareness and exercise caution in public places and on roads, and in general avoid large crowd and demonstrations.

Emergency Numbers

Emergency Line in Kuwait (police, ambulance, fire services) – 112 (accessible 24/7) Kuwait International Airport – 161 Public Institution for Social Security – 114 Electricity and Water Emergency – 152 Complaints of Consumer Protection – Ministry of Commerce & Industry – 135 Hotline of Kuwait Municipality – 139 Hotline of Ministry of Health – 151 Zakat House – 175 Civil Service Commission – 1828888 - 133

Kuwait has a good road network between cities. The Kuwait Transport Company operates a nationwide service which is reliable and inexpensive. Taxis are recognized by red license plates and may be hired during the day, wherein fares are agreed beforehand. Share-taxis are also available. Taxis can be made available by a phone call, and this service is popular and reliable. A standard rate is applicable to most taxis, but those at hotel ranks are more expensive. Tipping is not expected.

Self-drive is also available. Driving is on the right. Visitors can use international driving permits issued by their respective countries within the time limit of their visas. On producing international driving permit, the rental company will grant a temporary local license, with one month validity. It is illegal to drive in Kuwait without a driving license and car registration documents. Insurance should be arranged with Gulf Insurance Company or Kuwait Insurance Company.

Foreign visitors can bring their vehicles to Kuwait on temporary basis for upto three months. To obtain a Kuwaiti driver license, an applicant must be legally resident for at least two years in Kuwait. People who arrived from some countries (for instance, Westerners) may obtain a Kuwaiti driver license on the strength of their domestic driver licenses. Other must apply for a learner driver license and pass a driving test.

The highways and road systems in Kuwait are among the best in the world, with most highways being four lanes wide, and outside Kuwait city, there is hardly any traffic. When using road transport, only authorised road border crossing points into Iraq and Saudi Arabia should be used. Any other unauthorised movement in the vicinity of borders is considered illegal and dangerous. Off-road driving is discouraged, and if you happen to travel off-road, it is better to confine your movements whether by bicycle or on foot.

For trips to offshore islands, dhows and other small craft may be chartered. Kuwait has restrictions on eligibility requirements for driver licenses. Driving in excess of speed limits, switching lanes without warning, frequently ignoring traffic lights and use of mobile phones when driving are against rules. Driving under the influence of alcohol is a serious offense, which may lead to imprisonment and/or deportation. In case of an accident, you should stay with the vehicle, and not attempt to move it. You can call the police, as it is an offence to leave the scene of an accident before the police arrive.

Photography

Taking pictures of government and public buildings, economic infrastructure and military installations, particularly those related to oil industry, is against law and can lead to arrest, investigation and prosecution.

If photographing public scenes or persons, visitors should seek permission beforehand, so as to not cause offense, else, it could lead to an official complaint to the authorities.

Alcohol / Drugs / Sex

Importing narcotics, pork products, alcohol and obscene material can lead to imprisonment. You are not allowed to import alcohol into Kuwait, although the penalties for trafficking can be severe, including death sentence. Possession and abuse of drugs can lead to imprisonment of five to ten years and a heavy fine. Bail is usually not granted for drug offences and penalty for drug trafficking can also attract death sentence.

Drunken behaviour in public or driving under influence of alcohol is a punishable offence and can lead to imprisonment and/or deportation and withdrawal of driving license.

Co-habiting of unmarried partners in Kuwait is illegal. If you wish to live with your partner in the same house, you need to be married. Pornographic materials are considered illegal in Kuwait, and can get you into trouble, if found in your luggage on arrival. Homosexual behaviour is illegal and so is any public display of affection between men and women.

There is a wide variety of cloth and dress material available. Readymade clothing in Kuwait can range from cheap quality to expensive designer couture. The various styles reflect the multinational culture of Kuwaiti population. Tailors and dressmakers are widely available. Laundry and dry-cleaning services are in plenty. Although Kuwaitis are broad-minded, Islamic traditions dictate clothing decorum. Beachwear worn by either sex, is not permissible in Suqs or in the street, and is strictly limited to the beach or home. Although the black aba (cloak) is not a must, the fashionable clothes worn by Kuwaiti ladies do not reveal shoulders and upper arms, and usually stretch down to mid-calf at least. In the work place, formality of dress varies among different companies and occupations in Kuwait, but, styles are modest.

Food & drink

Mains water is normally chlorinated, and although relatively safe, may cause mild abdominal upsets. Bottled water is available and it is better to use bottled water for the first few weeks of the stay.

Milk is pasteurised and dairy products are safe for consumption. Local meat, seafood, poultry, fruit and vegetables are considered safe to eat. Most food is imported and subjected to stringent testing by Ministry of Public Health. Shops are inspected regularly by the Ministry. As long as normal domestic precautions are taken, the food in Kuwait is safe to eat.

Currency in Kuwait is Dinar, abbreviated as KD. Kuwaiti Dinar (KD) = 1000 fils. Notes are in denominations of KD20, 10 5 and 1, and 500 and 250 fils. Coins are denominations of 100, 50, 20, 10, 5 and 1 fils. Kuwait Dinar is stable, and is worth about $3.30.

As for credit and debit cards, American Express, Master Card, Diners Club and Visa are accepted. For details of merchant acceptability and other services, check with your credit or debit card company. Travellers cheques are widely accepted. To avoid additional exchange rate charges, travellers are advised to take travellers cheques in US Dollars or Pounds Sterling.

The import and export of local and foreign currency is allowed.

Banks are open Sunday to Thursday 0800hrs to 1200hrs. ATMs and Banks are everywhere and all major credit cards are accepted.

Other General Information

Kuwait shares borders with Saudi Arabia. The Persian Gulf lies to the southeast where Kuwait has sovereignty over nine small islands (largest being Bubiyan and Failaka being most populous). The landscape is mainly desert plateau with a lower, more fertile coastal belt. Kuwait is located in the northwest corner of Arabian Gulf with the Republic of Iraq, and to the south and southwest it shares border with Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Kuwait’s territory includes nine islands located off-coast of Kuwait – Failaka, Bubiyan, Miskan, Auhha, Warba, Umm Al-Maradim, Umm Al-Naml, Kubbar and Qaruth.

Kuwait follows traditional Arab monarchy. It gained complete independence from the UK in 1961. The Kuwaiti government is headed by HH the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-JAber Al-Sabah.

Electricity

240 volts AC, 50Hz, single phase. UK-type flat three-pin plugs are used.

Communications

For telephones full IDD is available. Country code: 965. Outgoing international code: 00. For mobile telephones GSM 900 and 1800 networks are available.

Major network operators in Kuwait are Zain (formerly MTC), Ooredoo (formerly Watanya) and STC (formerly Viva). These operators are all offering LTE services and exploring 5G opportunities. There is a high ownership of smartphones in Kuwait. Improvements to fibre-broadband infrastructure are constantly underway.

Most hotels have fax facilities. Internet cafes are available throughout Kuwait, and offer public access to email and internet services. ISPs include Gulfnet International and QualityNet.

The general post office hours are 0700-1400 (Sat-Wed) and 0700-1200 (Thurs).

'Arab Times' and 'Kuwait Times' are popular English language newspapers, while BBC World Service and Voice of America are received on radio, although frequencies change from time to time.

Shopping Hours

Shopping malls are available in plenty in Kuwait, some of the popular ones being The Avenues Mall , The Marina Mall , 360 Mall , Souk Sharq etc.

Other popular centres include Al-Fanar Shopping Centre, Leila Gallery, boutiques and other small general stores.

The shopping hours in these malls/shopping centres are from 10am to 10pm

Office Work Hours

The work week in Kuwait is Sunday to Thursday for majority of businesses, government offices and commercial banks. Kuwait observes a Friday and Saturday weekend.

Government Offices

April to October - 7:00am to 2:00pm November to March - 7:30am to 2:30pm Ramadan - 10am to 2.30am

Private Companies

Office work hours: 8.30am or 9.00am to 5.30pm or 6.00pm Ramadan – 9.30am to 2.00pm

Arabic is the official language, but, English is widely understood, particularly in the commerce and industry.

95 percent are Muslim (mostly of the Sunni sect), with Christian and Hindu minorities.

10 to 15 percent tipping is okey at a restaurant. However, tipping a taxi driver is not customary in Kuwait.

General rules to be followed

Ensure that you carry your own passport or Kuwait civil identification card, if you have one, at all times.

Bouncing of cheques is illegal and the law does not grant bail to offenders. Post-dated cheques can be banked immediately.

Humiliating or insulting a person, including a police offer or public official, is a crime in Kuwait. Such behaviour from your end will be subjected to police investigation and possible prosecution and imprisonment.

Kuwait, being a Muslim country, you need to respect local customs, traditions, laws and religion at all times and be aware of your actions to ensure that you do not offend other cultures, religious beliefs and religious areas, particularly if you happen to visit during the holy month of Ramadan.

Proselytizing is prohibited for all religions except Islam.

General modesty of behaviour and dressing is expected in public. Women wearing shorts or tight-fitting clothes, particularly in downtown areas, may attract unwelcome attention.

Robin Vinod

Writer/blogger who writes on topics such as travel, real estate, employment and everyday life on GCC countries.

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• When is the cheapest month to visit Kuwait?
• Popular beaches in Kuwait
• Kuwait Weather Forecast

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Kuwait Travel Guide

Welcome to your travel guide to Kuwait! Are you planning a trip to one of the smallest desert countries in the Middle East? No worries, I’m here to help. Here you’ll find everything you need to know about getting to Kuwait, getting around, what to eat, where to stay, what to do, and how to speak some basic Arabic. You’ll be ready to go in no time with this Kuwait travel guide.

A huge shout-out and thank you to my friend Abdullah for editing this post and being my tour guide around Kuwait City!

Getting to Kuwait

Kuwait isn’t necessarily the cheapest place to get to, but you can definitely find some good deals. Check my flight tips to help you out ! Remember, you’ll always save money flying out of a major city in the US, and to get to Kuwait you’ll likely connect in a nearby country (Dubai is a common layover).

Once you get to Kuwait, you’ll need to wait in a very long line to get your Kuwait visitor’s visa. If you happen to have Kuwaiti dinar on you, you can use one of the kiosks to speed up the process. (I learned the hard way that everyone who uses the kiosks gets to skip ahead of those who don’t…)

Getting Around Kuwait

I was lucky enough to be visiting with a former student and friend in Kuwait City, so when I wan’t being transported by the hotel shuttle, he drove me around town. Nevertheless, here are your options for getting around Kuwait:

Just like the climate in UAE , Kuwait can be really, really, hot. So follow the same advice if you’re determined to walk – wear lightweight fabric and bring bottled water with you. But, unless you’re planning on staying right in the city center, things aren’t always easily walkable.

Taxis are an expensive option, but also the most popular for getting around Kuwait. You’ll find two types of taxis: white and orange. White taxis are what you’d typically find – you hail them and your rate is based on your distance and time of day. It is Kuwaiti law for taxi drivers to abide by the meters, but you may have to encourage them to do so. If they are hesitant, ask for a pre-arranged price before departing. Orange taxis drive along pre-determined routes and passengers may share the ride with others traveling along the same route. (Orange taxi rates will be cheaper.)

Female travelers who are alone are encouraged not to hail taxis on their own. In addition, not all taxis have seatbelts, so be sure that yours does before entering.

Uber is not available in Kuwait, but you can use Careem . If you’re feeling more luxurious, Draewil offers limo rides!

Public Transport

Public transportation is not as readily available as I would like, so stick with cars. While there is an extensive public bus system, it does not always coincide with tourist destinations.

Speaking Arabic

Yet again I was surprised at the amount of people who spoke English. While not as common as the UAE, I found English to be enough to get by.

Either way, here are some useful phrases to know in Arabic: *When you see an apostrophe in the word, it sounds like a short pause. Also, these spellings are mostly phonetic, and are often different across different sources. Remember, Arabic uses a different writing system! Plus they read and write from right to left.

“merhaba” / “ahlan” – Hello “saba’a al-khayr” – Good Morning / Good Day “masaa’ al-khayr” – Good Afternoon / Good Evening “wada’an” – Goodbye “salam alaykum” – ‘Peace be upon you’ (A common greeting) “shukran” – Thank you “’afwan” – You’re welcome “min faDlik” – Please “na’am” – Yes “la’a” – No “arabiya” – Arabic (the language) “inglesi” – English “al’afw” – Excuse me “aasif” – Sorry “ismii…” – My name is… “kayfa haluk?” – How are you? “anta” (m) / “anti” (f) – You “ma’ay” – Water “qahua” – Coffee “cha’y” – Tea

Kuwaiti Dinar

The exchange rate as of this post, is roughly .3 dinar to one US dollar. So while things may same to be “cheap” in restaurants and stores, multiply the price by 3. And then some! Regardless, I still found Kuwait to be budget friendly for the most part. I never exchanged money in Kuwait, but was traveling with someone who had. The only problem I came across was not being able to get a cup of coffee from a little coffee cart, but I managed! That goes to say that it’s possible to get around with plastic only, but it’s always a good idea to have some dinar with you.

Do’s and Don’ts in Public

Since Kuwait is a predominantly muslim country, it’s wise to be as conservative as possible in your dress and behavior. Common practices include avoiding touch between members of the opposite sex (unless married to them). Homosexuality is illegal in Kuwait; so avoid overtly displaying your affections for people of the same gender.

It’s also best to dress more conservatively. That’s not to say that you need to be completely covered, but for women it’s best to cover up to your shoulders and down to your knees.

It is nearly (if not entirely) impossible to find alcohol in Kuwait, and it is illegal to be drunk in public. It’s best to avoid it completely and do not travel into Kuwait with alcohol. Also avoid bringing in any beef or pork products.

During the month of Ramadan, non-muslims are also expected to follow the religious fasting from sunrise to sunset. That means no eating, drinking, or smoking.

Kuwaiti Food

I discovered some of my new favorite foods in Kuwait! Everything was so delicious. If you learn nothing else from this Kuwait travel guide, learn this: try all the authentic Kuwaiti food. It’s amazing!

A few things to note when eating with others at Kuwaiti restaurants: It is very common for people to order several dishes for the table and share them (think tapas style). Kuwaiti people are also very hospitable, so if they offer to pay for your dinner or ask you to try something, oblige them. It’s also not unusual for people to eat with their hands. Lastly, and this one’s my favorite, Kuwaiti people will often take the leftovers from their meal and give it to someone on the street. It’s the most simple but thoughtful act of charity.

Quite possibly my favorite food from the region, and one of my favorites from anywhere. Majboos is the traditional dish of Kuwait. Often made with chicken or lamb, it’s made from basmati rice dish cooked in a seasoned broth and topped with meat. The meat is so tender and flavorful, you’ll find it hard to stop eating! Plus the added raisins add just a touch of sweetness to the dish.

Made from cracked wheat, this is a common Kuwaiti comfort food. Cooked in meat broth with spices and tomatoes, it has a mushy or soupy texture. Give it a try with some bread; it’s tasty!

Made from a potato like dough, kubbah is filled with ground meat, rolled into small balls, and fried. This is another dish that is very common in the region, with different countries taking different spins with the spices and flavors.

Stuffed grape leaves – one of my favorite Middle Eastern foods! I had to get some at the authentic Kuwaiti restaurant. When warak enab is fresh, you’ll find it full of fresh spices and covered in oil and lemon juice.

This sweet dessert is common to most countries in the region (and is often found at the Syracuse Greek and Middle Eastern festivals !). It’s soft on the inside, slightly hard on the outside, and slathered in a honey-like coating. Yum!

Where to Stay in Kuwait

Kuwait is a small country, and Kuwait City is where you’ll want to be. Hotels are very moderately priced. It is very easy to find lots of options under $100 USD. Of course there are some more high-end options available if that’s your thing.

What to See & Do

Kuwait towers.

Kuwait Towers look like they are straight out of The Jetsons . They are incredible! Super futuristic looking, but smack dab in the middle of the desert. I recommend taking the elevator up to the top and eating at the buffet with a huge spread of food. When you’re done eating, you can go up one more floor to the observation deck to get some beautiful views of Kuwait. Fun fact: the deck rotates, so you can stay in one spot and see the whole 360° view!

Souk Al-Gharabally

Just like the Gold Souk in Dubai , here is where you’ll find the most authentic Kuwaiti goods. I was able to get some beautiful scarves and traditional candies to bring back home as gifts – for just a few dinar each! Don’t be afraid to barter, it’s expected. Never pay full price – haggle! Also, keep in mind that there is a café in the center of the market that is strictly for males (sorry, girls!).

The Avenues Mall

The exact opposite of the souk, The Avenues Mall is the most insane mall – in a good way! It’s easily one of the most luxurious malls I’ve ever visited. Plus it’s HUGE – the largest in Kuwait and second largest in the region. It’s clearly designed to be a destination for people to visit.

In the central parts of the mall you’ll find your typical shops like H&M and high-end brands, plus globally-known restaurants and cafés like Cheesecake Factory and Starbucks. But, if you travel to the side hallways, it turns into more traditional architecture and is reminiscent of old Kuwait roads. That is where you’ll find more authentic Kuwaiti shops and restaurants.

Sheikh Abdullah Al Salem Cultural Centre

An impressive 22 galleries make up this cultural complex that has taken several years to design and build. You could easily spend days visiting all of the exhibits at Sheikh Abdullah Al Salem Cultural Centre . From natural history, to science and technology, to Islam, there is so much to learn and experience here. Also, the exhibits are some of the most impressive that I’ve seen in the world . There are life-size replicas of extinct animals from around the globe, interactive displays of new technology, and a two-story aquarium and forest to walk through. If you have half a day free, make sure you visit at least some of the galleries at the cultural centre. The hardest part will be choosing which ones!

More Kuwait Attractions

Unfortunately, my trip to Kuwait was short and I didn’t have enough time to get to all of the things I wanted to see. My friend Abdullah recommends these other places if you have more time to explore:

Al Salam Palace Museum

Tareq Rajab Museum of Islamic Art

Al Shaheed Park

The Scientific Center

Sheikh Jaber Al Ahmed Cultural Centre

Did you find this Kuwait travel guide helpful for planning your trip to Kuwait? Leave a comment to let me know! Then do me a favor and share it on your favorite social network. I can’t wait to hear about your trips to Kuwait!

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Emily Adams The Planking Traveler

Kuwait is not somewhere that was ever on my radar, but it looks like it has so much to offer! If I could find a way to handle the heat, I would be down for a visit.

I’m glad I could help teach you about it! Honestly, the heat wasn’t much of an issue in Kuwait. Moreso in UAE.

I’m glad I could help teach you about it! Honestly, the heat wasn’t much of an issue in Kuwait. More so in the UAE.

Tell me your thoughts! Cancel reply

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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Kuwait travel advice

Latest updates: The Need help? section was updated.

Last updated: April 16, 2024 08:05 ET

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Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, kuwait - exercise a high degree of caution.

Exercise a high degree of caution in Kuwait due to the threat of terrorism.

Jaleeb Al-Shuyoukh - AVOID NON-ESSENTIAL TRAVEL

Avoid non-essential travel to Jaleeb Al-Shuyoukh due to high crime rates.

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There is a threat of terrorism. There is an increased risk of attacks in or near places of worship, particularly Shia places of worship, and heightened security measures have been put in place at these sites. Be particularly vigilant in or near places of worship.

Targets also could include:

• government buildings, including schools
• airports and other transportation hubs and networks
• public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners

Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places.

Criminal activity occurs but violent crime is rare, including against foreigners.

You should, however, avoid secluded places or non-residential areas after dark. Locals have sometimes followed Westerners home after dark and then vandalized their parked vehicles. If you suspect you are being followed or you witness suspicious loitering, report it to the local police.

Ensure that your belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times.

Demonstrations

Demonstrations may occur.

Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Border crossings

Use only official border crossings when crossing from Iraq or Saudi Arabia into Kuwait. Kuwaiti officials consider other crossings illegal.

Armed guards patrol the borders. There have been recent exchanges of gunfire.

Women’s safety

Women have been physically and verbally harassed. Do not travel alone, especially after dark.

Advice for women travellers

Munitions and landmines

Unexploded munitions and landmines from the 1991 Gulf War pose hazards in rural areas, picnic spots, beaches and desert areas. Monitor children closely. Do not touch suspicious unfamiliar objects.

Weapons are readily available, and accidental shootings have occurred.

Public transportation

Use only officially marked taxis, and pre-negotiate fares.

Road safety

Accidents are common and due mainly to unsafe driving practices such as reckless driving. Exercise caution when driving after dark. Avoid off-road driving due to residual landmines.

Exercise caution if travelling by sea, including for recreational purposes, in the Gulf, particularly around the Abu Mousa, Greater Tunb and Lesser Tunb islands, as both Iran and the United Arab Emirates claim sovereignty over the islands.

Pirate attacks and armed robbery against ships occur in coastal waters. Mariners should take appropriate precautions.

Live piracy report  - International Maritime Bureau

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Kuwaiti authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date you expect to leave Kuwait.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Travel documents with an X in the "sex" field

The Kuwaiti authorities will deny you entry if your passport shows an X in the “sex” field or if it includes an observation to that effect.

Tourist visa: required Business visa: required Student visa: required

You can obtain a tourist visa upon arrival. If you need a business or student visa, you must get it at an embassy or consulate of Kuwait before arrival.

Arriving without a visa could lead to refused entry or a lengthy delay.

Canadians travelling with a regular passport can also get a tourist, business or visit visa online. You must present a copy of this visa for verification on arrival.

Apply for a tourist, business or visit visa  - Ministry of interior

Other entry requirements

A round-trip or onward travel ticket is required to obtain a transit visa.

Residence permit

The expiry date of a residence permit cannot exceed that of a passport. In order to ensure the longest possible permit validity period, renew your passport before your residence permit expires.

If you intend to work in Kuwait, you must obtain a certified criminal record check for each individual or dependent family member over the age of 18 who will be residing in the country.

You must have certified criminal record checks authenticated by Global Affairs Canada and by the Embassy of the State of Kuwait before travelling to Kuwait. You must do this no more than 3 months before arriving there.

Canadians who intend to work in Kuwait must also obtain a police clearance from Kuwait’s Ministry of Interior (MOI) upon their arrival. Visit the Embassy of Canada to Kuwait to obtain the letter required to apply for the MOI’s police clearance.

• Authentication of documents
• Foreign diplomatic missions and consulates in Canada

Regional travel

Canadians have been denied entry into Kuwait because their passports bore an Israeli visa or border stamp, or an Egyptian or Jordanian border stamp issued by an office bordering Israel (such a stamp would indicate entry from Israel).

Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children .

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

• Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
• COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

• There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

• Proof of vaccination is not required to enter this country.

Recommendation

• Vaccination is not recommended.

* It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada

There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.

Practise  safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

•  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
•  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
•  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

In this destination, rabies  may be present in some wildlife species, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. 

If you are bitten or scratched by an animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. 

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who will be working directly with wildlife. 

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Typhoid   is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.

Travellers visiting regions with a risk of typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation, should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.  

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Cases of locally-acquired   Middle East respiratory syndrome  (MERS) have been reported in this country.

MERS is a viral respiratory disease caused by the Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV).

Some people infected with MERS-CoV experience no symptoms, while others may experience mild flu-like or more severe pneumonia-like symptoms. About one-third of reported cases have result ed in death.

Eat and drink safely ,   and   avoid close contact with animals, especially camels. If you must visit a farm or market, make sure you practise good hygiene and  wash your hands  before and after contact with animals.

There is currently no licensed vaccine to protect against MERS.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•   washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Medical services and facilities

Modern medical care is available through government-run clinics and hospitals. Immediate cash payment is often required.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a   travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

The work week is from Sunday to Thursday.

You must carry an international driving permit.

In the event of an accident, do not attempt to move the vehicle, even if it impedes traffic. Kuwaiti law states that the driver must wait for the police to make an official report.

Digital cameras register traffic violations.

Authorities may hold suspects as well as witnesses to incidents for lengthy periods without access to legal counsel or consular officials. Even if access is granted, it may be severely limited by Kuwaiti authorities. Authorities may withhold the passport of an individual involved in legal processes, pending resolution of the case. This could result in the delay of a planned departure.

There is a zero-tolerance policy regarding drinking and driving. Consequences include heavy fines, imprisonment or deportation.

International Driving Permit

Penalties for possession, use and trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect heavy fines, lengthy jail sentences or even the death penalty. The possession of illegal drugs, even a very small amount, could result in arrest and imprisonment.

Possession and consumption of alcohol is illegal in Kuwait.

Alcohol cannot be legally purchased or imported into Kuwait, and the penalties associated with the possession of alcohol include heavy fines, imprisonment or deportation.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Illegal activities

Defamation of the emir, any member of the royal family or any local authority is prohibited.

Religious proselytizing is not permitted.

The import and consumption of pork products is illegal.  It is illegal to possess pornographic material.

Photography of government buildings and military or industrial sites, particularly oil fields, is forbidden. Don't photograph people without their permission.

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is not legally recognized in Kuwait.

If local authorities consider you a citizen of Kuwait, they may refuse to grant you access to Canadian consular services. This will prevent us from providing you with those services.

Travellers with dual citizenship

Fraudulent practices—for example, writing cheques without sufficient funds and non-payment of bills—are regarded as extremely serious offences and may result in imprisonment and fines.

Temporary release pending legal action may be granted in minor cases if the passport of the accused and the passport of the guarantor are surrendered to the authorities.

Dress and behaviour

Exercise common sense and discretion in dress and behaviour. Men and women should dress conservatively. Men must wear pants and a shirt in public.

It is uncommon for Western women to cover their head in Kuwait. Dresses and skirts are permitted, provided they cover the shoulders and knees. Shorts and short skirts are considered inappropriate.

Exercise particular care in your behaviour with others, especially officials, to avoid offending local sensitivities. Verbal insults and obscene gestures may be considered a criminal act and, if found guilty, you could face deportation, fines and/or a prison sentence.

Avoid physical contact, such as holding hands, in public.

In 2024, the lunar month of Ramadan is expected to begin on or around March 10.

In public, between sunrise and sunset, refrain from:

2SLGBTQI+ travellers

The laws of Kuwait prohibit sexual acts between individuals of the same sex.

2SLGBTQI+ travellers should carefully consider the risks of travelling to Kuwait.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

Family law matters, including child custody and divorce-related decisions, are settled according to Kuwait’s Marriage law, based on sharia (Islamic law). If you are involved in custody or other family disputes, consult a lawyer for advice on how religious law in Kuwait may affect your family situation.

Kuwait’s Marriage law

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. It does not apply between Canada and Kuwait.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Kuwait by an abducting parent:

• act as quickly as you can
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Kuwait to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre.

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country’s judicial affairs.

• International Child Abduction: A Guidebook for Left-Behind Parents
• Travelling with children
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Emergency Watch and Response Centre

The currency of Kuwait is the Kuwaiti dinar (KWD).

KWD is readily convertible to U.S. dollars.

Credit cards and U.S. dollars are widely accepted, and ATMs are available nationwide.

The rainy season extends from December to January and often results in flooding.

High levels of humidity and severe heat occur from June to September.

Severe sand and dust storms can occur throughout the year.

Local services

Dial 112 for emergency assistance.

Consular assistance

For emergency consular assistance, call the Embassy of Canada in Kuwait City and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

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• Passports, travel and living abroad
• Travel abroad
• Foreign travel advice

Entry requirements

This information is for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK. It is based on the UK government’s understanding of the current rules for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in Kuwait set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Kuwaiti Embassy in the UK: 

2 Albert Gate 

London, SW1X 7JU 

Telephone: 020 7590 3400 

COVID-19 rules 

There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering Kuwait. 

Passport validity requirements 

To enter Kuwait, your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least 6 months after the date you arrive. 

Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.  

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen. 

Previous travel to Israel 

If your passport contains an Israeli stamp, you may be refused a visa or entry to Kuwait. 

Visa requirements 

You must have a visa to visit Kuwait. 

Applying for a visa 

You can apply for an e-visa before you travel or get a visa on arrival in Kuwait. The Kuwait Ministry of Interior has information on e-visas. 

Checks at border control  

You must be able to show: 

• a ticket for return or onward travel 
• proof of your accommodation, for example, a hotel booking  
• work visas (both public and private sector) require further documents from employer. See further details on visas and requirements  

Working or living in Kuwait 

For work or residency visas, apply to the Kuwaiti Embassy in London. 

If you’re applying for a residency visa, your passport must be valid for at least 2 years. Your employers should not keep your passport. 

For further information, read about living in Kuwait.  

Vaccine requirements  

For details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see TravelHealthPro’s Kuwait guide .  

Customs rules 

There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of Kuwait . You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty. Failure to declare could result in: 

• imprisonment 
• refusal of entry and possible deportation

It is illegal to import:  

• narcotics  
• gambling machines 
• pork and pork products 
• pornographic material  

Taking money into Kuwait 

Declare cash or travellers cheques if the value is 3000 Kuwaiti dinars (£7,500) or more. You will get a certified declaration to show you brought it in with you. If you do not, your money could be seized when you leave. 

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Visiting Kuwait: A Travel Guide for First Timers

By: Author Stefania Guglielmi

Posted on Last updated: January 1, 2023

Categories Kuwait , Middle East

Thinking of traveling to the Middle East but don’t know where to go? Think no more. I have the perfect destination for you and that is Kuwait. Kuwait may not be on your bucket list of travel destinations but the country is worth visiting.

In this article, I’ll tell you a few things you should know about Kuwait and then you can decide if you want to plan a trip to this tiny country which borders Iraq and Saudi Arabia.

Table of Contents

What Are Some Key Facts About Kuwait?

Kuwait is a Muslim country in the Persian Gulf. The nation is oil-rich having 10% of the world’s oil reserves. They sell over 60% of their oil to Asian countries and their economy is largely petroleum based. The country’s currency the Kuwaiti Dinar is the world’s highest-valued currency.

You may know Kuwait mostly because of the 1990 Gulf War. The war started after the invasion of the country by the Iraqi dictator Saddam Hussein, who wanted Kuwaiti’s oil, caused instability in the country.

However, Kuwait has moved on since the war and is now stable and peaceful for you to visit.  A clear indication of the country’s stability is that 70% of the population is made up of expatriates. With a population of 4.25 million people, the number of Kuwaitis is only slightly over one million.

Majority of the population lives in the Capital which is Kuwait City and most enjoy a high standard of life given that Kuwait is a wealthy country.

What Do You Need to Travel To Kuwait?

They are two crucial documents required for you to be allowed into Kuwait. A valid passport and a Kuwait visa.

For example, the Kuwait visa requirements for Indian citizens traveling to Kuwait are: • You must have an Indian passport which is valid for at least 6 months upon arrival in Kuwait. • An approved Kuwait eVisa. You can apply for your visa online. The process takes less than 10 minutes. All you need to do is fill an online visa application form with your personal and passport details, plus information about your trip to Kuwait. Once you submit the form and everything checks out your visa will be sent to you in a few hours by email.

Nationals from the USA, Canada, Australia and the EU can also get a visa on arrival. I recommend checking in advance the requirements for your passport.

Best Things To Do in Kuwait

Kuwait has several tourist attractions that you’ll enjoy visiting. I will list for you some of the top attractions you must visit when you travel there.

Al Hamra – Located in Kuwait  City this the tallest tower in Kuwait and the 15th tallest sculpted tower in the world. The tower which took six years to construct has 80 floors and from it, you can get an amazing aerial view of Kuwait.

Liberation Tower – After Al Hamra, this is the second tallest building in Kuwait. On a clear day atop the tower, you can see the whole of Kuwait. The tower also has a revolving restaurant from which you can sample some Kuwaiti cuisine as you enjoy your view.

The Grand Mosque – This is the largest mosque in Kuwait. If you want to learn more about the nation’s Muslim religion take one of the daily tours at the mosque. The Grand Mosque is also beautifully built and you can go admire its architecture.

Failaka Island – The Gulf War came with a lot of destruction. On this island which is 20 km east of Kuwait City the effects of wars can be seen. Homes, office, hospitals, etc. destroyed during the war have not been rebuilt. Failaka Island gives you a first-hand experience of what war does to a country. The island which was once inhabited is abandoned now. On the island, you can also visit archaeological sites that date back to the Bronze Age.

Kuwaiti Desert – A visit to Kuwait would be incomplete without a trip to the desert. Activities you can do in the desert include camel rides or camping for a night in the desert. If you venture into the desert remember to carry sunscreen, sunglasses, hats and UPF clothing.

Kuwait Beaches – Kuwait has spectacular sandy beaches for you to just chill and soak up some sun. The beaches fall into three categories public beaches, beach parks, and beach clubs. Public beaches are open to all but for beach parks and beach clubs, you will have to pay to access the beach. Beach clubs are more expensive as the offer more luxurious surroundings.

Old Souk/ Mubarakiya – Visit this market if you want to taste some mouth-watering Arabic dishes.

To shop for trip souvenirs head over to the Haraj – the Friday market.

There many other places you can visit in Kuwait like the House of Mirrors and Avenues Mall . You should consider hiring a guide who can take you around Kuwait so that you don’t miss out on its key attractions. Being a small country you can see it all in two or three days.

Key Information to Keep in Mind When Visiting Kuwait

There are some rules you must adhere to if you don’t want to get into trouble when in Kuwait. Let us go to through some of them.

• Possession of alcohol, drugs, pork or pornographic material is illegal. If you’re found with any of this you could get a serious jail term.

• Homosexuality is also illegal in Kuwait. Talking about or displaying homosexual behavior will also land you in jail.

• Public display of affection is frowned upon. Cuddling or kissing in public may not get you as severe a punishment as homosexuality but avoid it. No need to go looking for trouble.

• I’ve heard multiple times that driving in Kuwait is a nightmare. So if you’re thinking of hiring a car and driving yourself around, you might want to rethink it. The safety record on Kuwaiti roads is bad. Drivers over speed, tailgate and generally ignore traffic rules making the number of road accidents high. The traffic on the road is also terrible.

• When it comes to dressing, dress conservatively. For women, tight clothing or revealing clothing may get you some unwanted attention. For men, avoid shorts that are above the knees and sleeveless tops.

• Kuwait may not excite you at first like other countries. However, once you travel to the country and meet its warm people, experience it culture, try their amazing food, tour the museums, shopping malls, and get some rest and relaxation on their beaches you will have a different opinion about the country.

Where To Stay in Kuwait

Kuwait has many hotels you can find accommodation at. Depending on your budget you can stay at a budget-friendly hotel or book a luxury suite at any of the five-star hotels in Kuwait City. Book your accommodation by using the map below ⬇

Royal Inn Hotel – This is a budget hotel located in Al Salmiya. It is about twenty minutes away from Kuwait City and is close to the beach. Being in a desert, temperatures in Kuwait are extremely high so you’ll be happy to know this hotel has air-conditioned rooms.

Le Royal – Some of the amenities at this four-star hotel are an outdoor pool and a gym. From the hotel, you can have scenic views of the Gulf state and are offered free Wi-Fi.

The Regency Hotel – If you’re looking for top-notch accommodation in Kuwait the luxurious Regency Hotel will do it for you. This five-star hotel is on a private beach and has several fine dining restaurants you can try out. It is also minutes away from most of Kuwait tourist attractions.

Stefania Guglielmi is the founder of Every Steph. Originally from Bologna, Italy, she's been traveling full-time since 2016 and has visited over 50 countries across 6 continents. She believes sustainable travel and luxury travel can go hand in hand and has been advocating for responsible tourism since 2014. Stefania's advice and travel experiences have been featured in important publications such as Business Insider, Refinery29, and Yahoo Money.

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Kuwait Traveler View

Travel health notices, vaccines and medicines, non-vaccine-preventable diseases, stay healthy and safe.

• Packing List

After Your Trip

There are no notices currently in effect for Kuwait.

⇧ Top

Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

Routine vaccines

Recommendations.

Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip. Some of these vaccines include

• Chickenpox (Varicella)
• Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
• Flu (influenza)
• Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

Immunization schedules

All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. Please see  Your COVID-19 Vaccination  for more information. 

COVID-19 vaccine

Hepatitis A

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to Kuwait.

Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.

Travelers allergic to a vaccine component or who are younger than 6 months should receive a single dose of immune globulin, which provides effective protection for up to 2 months depending on dosage given.

Unvaccinated travelers who are over 40 years old, immunocompromised, or have chronic medical conditions planning to depart to a risk area in less than 2 weeks should get the initial dose of vaccine and at the same appointment receive immune globulin.

Hepatitis A - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep A

Hepatitis B

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers younger than 60 years old traveling to Kuwait. Unvaccinated travelers 60 years and older may get vaccinated before traveling to Kuwait.

Hepatitis B - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep B

Cases of measles are on the rise worldwide. Travelers are at risk of measles if they have not been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior to departure, or have not had measles in the past, and travel internationally to areas where measles is spreading.

All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6–11 months, according to  CDC’s measles vaccination recommendations for international travel .

Measles (Rubeola) - CDC Yellow Book

Rabid dogs are commonly found in Kuwait. However, if you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other mammal while in Kuwait, rabies treatment is often available. 

Consider rabies vaccination before your trip if your activities mean you will be around dogs or wildlife.

Travelers more likely to encounter rabid animals include

• Campers, adventure travelers, or cave explorers (spelunkers)
• Veterinarians, animal handlers, field biologists, or laboratory workers handling animal specimens
• Visitors to rural areas

Since children are more likely to be bitten or scratched by a dog or other animals, consider rabies vaccination for children traveling to Kuwait. 

Rabies - CDC Yellow Book

Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities or rural areas.

Typhoid - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Typhoid

Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

• Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
• Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
• Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
• Avoid contaminated water and soil

Clinical Guidance

Avoid bug bites.

• Mosquito bite
• Avoid Bug Bites

Leishmaniasis

• Sand fly bite

Airborne & droplet

• Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
• Bite from an infected rodent
• Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
• Avoid rodents and areas where they live
• Avoid sick people

Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS)

• Scientists do not fully understand how the MERS virus spreads
• May spread from to others when an infected person coughs or sneezes
• May spread to people from camels.

Middle East Respiratory virus syndrome (MERS)

Tuberculosis (TB)

• Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Kuwait, so your behaviors are important.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

• Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
• Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
• Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene | Healthy Water
• Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the  Department of State Country Information Pages  for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Kuwait. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

• Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
• Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
• Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
• Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
• Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

• FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
• Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
• Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
• 2-undecanone
• Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

• Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
• Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in Kuwait include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.

• Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
• Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
• Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
• If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
• Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
• Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
• Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

• Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
• Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
• Do not dive into shallow water.
• Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
• Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
• To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

• Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
• Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
• Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
• Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
• If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

• Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
• Go to a doctor right away.
• Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

• Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
• If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
• Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
• Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
• If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

• Use latex condoms correctly.
• Do not inject drugs.
• Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
• Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
• If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

• Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
• Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
• Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
• Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Kuwait’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
• Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

• Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
• Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
• Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

• Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
• Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
• Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
• Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
• Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
• Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

• Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
• Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
• Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

• Wear a seatbelt at all times.
• Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
• When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
• Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Kuwait may be poor.
• Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
• Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
• If you choose to drive a vehicle in Kuwait, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
• Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
• Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
• Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
• If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
• Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Medical Evacuation Insurance

If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

• Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
• Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
• Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
• Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

• Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
• Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
• Follow all local laws and social customs.
• Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
• Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
• If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Kuwait for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

Map Disclaimer - The boundaries and names shown and the designations used on maps do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention concerning the legal status of any country, territory, city or area or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries. Approximate border lines for which there may not yet be full agreement are generally marked.

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• COVID-19 travel restrictions: Kuwait
• < Travel restrictions

Travel restrictions

By Kiwi.com May 31, 2022

By Kiwi.com | May 31, 2022

This article was published on May 31, 2022, and all the information in the article is correct as of this time. Before you book your trip, we highly recommend that you also check official sources for the most up-to-date travel requirements, as they are subject to constant change.

Can I enter Kuwait?

You can enter Kuwait . Due to COVID-19, several entry requirements are currently in place to stop the disease from spreading.

Please be aware that the first thing you must do when traveling to Kuwait is complete a Health Declaration (all arrivals) and register on the Shlonik app (for unvaccinated arrivals only). The following steps vary depending on your vaccination status.

Can I enter Kuwait if I am vaccinated? 

You can enter Kuwait if you are vaccinated. You are considered fully vaccinated at least 14 days after administration of the second dose for vaccines with a two-dose schedule; or at least 21 days after administration of the vaccine with a single dose schedule. 

The following vaccine drugs are fully approved in Kuwait:

• AstraZeneca / Oxford
• Moderna 
• Johnson & Johnson 

The vaccines listed below are not approved in Kuwait. However, you can enter the country if you have received at least one dose of one of the Kuwait-approved vaccinations after taking any of the following:

In addition, please be aware that the same rules as for fully vaccinated travelers apply to partially vaccinated ones in Kuwait. Partially vaccinated means you have not received the booster dose in the nine months since your last vaccination dose. ​

Travel documents if you are vaccinated

• A vaccination certificate

Can I enter Kuwait if I am unvaccinated? 

You can enter Kuwait if you are unvaccinated.

Travel documents if you are unvaccinated

• A negative PCR test result obtained no more than 72 hours before departure

Can I leave Kuwait?

You can leave Kuwait. Please check the destination country ‘s requirements to make sure you are allowed to travel there.

Can I leave Kuwait if I am vaccinated?

Vaccinated travelers can leave Kuwait.

Vaccinated travelers must have one of the following documents to leave Kuwait:

• A document confirming vaccination 

In addition, check the requirements about the COVID-19 test presence in your destination country. 

Can I leave Kuwait if I am unvaccinated?

There are no restrictions for unvaccinated travelers leaving Kuwait.

Unvaccinated travelers have to present one of the following documents: 

• Document of recovery from COVID-19 (stating that the visitor has been infected no older than 180 days before the day of crossing the border of a particular country)
• A negative COVID-19 test result (the relevant period and kind of test may vary, please check the requirements of the destination country)

Nevertheless, COVID-19 tests may be required for recovered travelers as well. Please check in advance whether this is the case.

COVID-19 situation in Kuwait currently

Presently, the COVID-19 situation in Kuwait is becoming safer due to the increasing number of vaccinated population.

Is it safe to travel to Kuwait right now?

International travel to Kuwait is safe if travelers abide by basic regulations:

• Wearing masks indoors
• Maintaining social distance

Is Kuwait City open for travel?

Kuwait City is open for travel now. As with the whole country, the capital has the same basic COVID-19 rules. 

Do I have to quarantine if I go to Kuwait?

Fully vaccinated travelers are exempt from quarantine.

Partially vaccinated travelers have to:

• Self-isolate upon arrival
• Undergo a PCR test
• End their self-isolation upon receiving a negative result

Unvaccinated travelers have to:

• Self-isolate upon arrival for seven days
• Undergo a PCR test on day seven
• End their self-isolation upon receiving a negative result 

How do I get a health pass to travel to Kuwait?

At present, all foreign arrivals are required to:

• Complete a Health Declaration (all arrivals)
• Register at Shlonik app (unvaccinated arrivals only)

Useful link:

• Kuwait Health Declaration
• Shlonik app for unvaccinated arrivals only
• Registration of Vaccination Document issued Abroad

Visit our   Travel Restriction section at Kiwi.com Stories   to read   more travel restrictions articles

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How to Travel to Kuwait and Get a Kuwait Visa

I f you are a traveler who curious about exploring the Persian Gulf or the Middle East but struggling to find an accessible blend of the known and unknown, Kuwait – and particularly Kuwait City – may be the perfect place to begin your journey.

Nowadays, a Kuwait travel visa is incredibly easy to acquire for a large number of nationalities, including citizens of the United States, Canada, Australia, Japan, and all EU countries. The Kuwait visa is valid for one week. Before that expires, if you’d like to continue to explore Kuwait, you can apply for a Kuwait eVisa from the official government website.

Kuwait Visa

Kuwait is an oasis of the Persian Gulf, and should be considered as a destination for any bold adventurer

For these same countries eligible for a transit visa, this process only takes a few minutes; generally, if you’ve been accepted for a transit visa you will also be accepted through the eVisa application.

Be careful though; the process can take several days to complete, and you would not want to be caught in between visas because then, regardless of your pre-arranged plans, you’d likely be forced to leave until the new visa comes through. It is also possible to acquire a temporary driver’s permit in Kuwait if you meet the requirements, which can also be found on their government website.

Kuwait Road Trip

Then, you can do a road trip through Kuwait on the seven-day transit visa and enter a number of other countries along the Persian Gulf, depending on which direction you go: most popularly, the beautiful mountainous city of Tehran lies to the East, and the gargantuan skyscrapers of Dubai lie to the South.

This journey is not for the faint-hearted, as the cultural barriers are found to be debilitating, exhausting, and unnerving to many Westerners, especially if one decides to drive through the country into other parts of the region.

However, like many especially bold travel adventures, overcoming such limitations can make their reward doubly redeeming.

If one decides not to explore other countries and stay within the confines of Kuwait, a week on a transit can also be found to be a suitable amount of time to absorb the riches of the area: soak in the beaches, explore the metropolitan, Dubai-like Kuwait City, or explore the historical sites in the country that lie inland, outside of the big city and away from the Gulf.

Traveling to Kuwait: Getting There and Staying There

In addition to the seven-day transit visa, there is also a visa on arrival that travelers can seek upon entering Kuwait. It is only valid for 24 hours, but this can give a traveler a feel for the city, and ultimately lead them to the decision of whether traveling in the country, as well as the region as a whole, would be a good fit.

If indeed, they wish to explore the region, the transit visa is a convenient visa to obtain for many legal passport holders. If instead, the traveler would like to stay in Kuwait longer, they may also apply for a more long-term eVisa which grants them a ninety-day stay in the country.

The longer visa also grants them permission to leave and re-enter without having to re-apply for a visa. This can be great if one is looking to explore the rest of the region, or simply go somewhere else and return within ninety days.

Kuwait City Nightlife

When talking about Kuwait City nightlife, it is important to note that Kuwait is a dry country, meaning alcohol is not served legally anywhere in the country.

This, however, does not prevent people from having fun in the nighttime; if anything, it forces people to pursue different avenues of entertainment outside of alcohol. If you’re bored of going to a brand new place just to find yourself cooped up in some bar drinking a mediocre beer or an above-average cocktail, you may not be bothered by the lack of alcohol here.

There are still dozens of dance clubs to choose from, as well as metropolitan park areas and restaurants open late. Some of the nightclubs are so vast, extravagant, and opulent that on the inside, they appear to have a size more comparable to an amusement park.

They are known to have a layout similar to a mansion, with dozens of different areas to lounge and socialize, each with different atmospheres. Since Kuwait can have a particularly warm climate in the summertime, these party palaces usually come equipped with pools and even waterslides.

Things to do in Kuwait

In a similar vein of extravagance, there are alternatives, yet no less extravagant, sources of entertainment in Kuwait City in the form of outdoor theme parks, combining theatre, natural beauty, and general leisure all into one.

Kuwait’s Magical Fountain Park attracts a lot of tourists due to its wide walkways and well-constructed park atmosphere. This, of course, interestingly parallels the music blaring from the fountains within the park and the attendees enjoying its tunes.

The music will be an unfamiliar experience to Western ears unless they are familiar with the musical styles of this area. In short, the style usually consists of an upbeat rhythm, with connecting and underlying string instruments such as sitars and drum sounds uncommon in popular Western music.

The accompanying vocals are usually sung in a deep male voice in Arabic. But since many of the same music popular in the West is also popular in Kuwait, there is commonly a hybrid element of Western music in terms of tempo and melody.

Sometimes a lush cultural experience entirely different from your own can be most easily expressed in music, and this music fountain park thusly became a gravitating attraction to reflect on the uniqueness of Kuwait City.

If after a long night of this one grows tired of socializing, there is always the stunning Persian Gulf to walk along, with networks of gulf side walking paths to make the trek more serene.

Many places along the shores of Kuwait City, such as the highly recommend Al Kout, turns into a beach that is accessible at any hour of the day.

This beach has a unique atmosphere because on top of the beach sits these columns of bridges, making it look like you are sitting inside of a palace while at the same time relaxing on a beach.

Further, if one is still not tired of waterside attractions, there is also the Kobar Island nearby, a popular tourist attraction for those who want to feel surrounded by the azure gulf in the comforts of a total oasis.

Recommended Travel Resources

• Travel Insurance: World Nomads .
• Transport: CheapOAir and Skyscanner (Best Sites to Research Flight Prices) 
• Best Car Rental Deals: Rentalcars.com
• Best Sites to Find Hotel Deals: Hotels.com and Booking.com
• My Favorite Hotel Review Website: TripAdvisor
• Best Tours: Viator and Get Your Guide

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Introducing Kuwait Ways - your ultimate travel companion for seamless booking experiences! Kuwait Ways empowers travelers with effortless access to flights, hotels, and transfers all within a single, user-friendly platform. Whether you're jetting off for business or leisure, Kuwait Ways simplifies the entire journey from start to finish. Key Features: 1. **Flight Bookings**: Explore a vast array of flight options and secure your tickets with ease. From economy to premium classes, Kuwait Ways ensures you find the perfect flight to suit your needs. 2. **Hotel Reservations**: Browse through a diverse selection of hotels spanning various regions. Whether you seek luxury accommodations or budget-friendly stays, Kuwait Ways offers options to cater to every preference and budget. 3. **Transfer Services**: Seamlessly arrange transfers to and from airports or between destinations, ensuring a hassle-free travel experience from the moment you land. 4. **Convenient Management**: Keep track of all your bookings effortlessly within the app. Manage reservations, view itineraries, and make changes on-the-go, all from the palm of your hand. 5. **Best Price Guarantee**: Enjoy peace of mind knowing you're getting the lowest fares possible for flights and competitive rates for hotel bookings. Kuwait Ways is committed to providing cost-effective solutions without compromising on quality. With Kuwait Ways, embark on your next adventure with confidence, convenience, and affordability. Download the app now and unlock a world of seamless travel possibilities!

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Iran launches barrage of strikes toward Israel

By Tori B. Powell , Sophie Tanno, Emma Tucker , Kaanita Iyer , Paul LeBlanc and Adrienne Vogt , Jerome Taylor and James Legge, CNN

Our live coverage of Iran's attack on Israel has moved here .

Iran warns its response will be "stronger and more resolute" if Israel retaliates following latest strikes

From CNN’s Alireza Hajihosseini and Eyad Kourdi

Iran has warned that it will respond with more force if Israel retaliates over this weekend's strikes, which Tehran said were themselves a reply to an Israeli attack earlier this month on its embassy complex in Syria's capital Damascus.

“The Islamic Republic of Iran will not hesitate to exercise its inherent right of self-defense when required," Iran’s Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the UN, Amir Saeid Iravani, said in a statement.

Citing self-defense against repeated Israeli military aggressions, Iravani said the strikes were specifically in retaliation to an Israeli attack on April 1 against what Iran says were diplomatic facilities in Damascus.

Iran claims the attack violated international law and led to the death of seven Iranian military advisors, including key commanders from the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps.

The statement also criticizes the United Nations Security Council for “failing to uphold international peace,” allowing Israel to “breach” established international norms and “escalate” regional tensions.

Additional context: Israel has carried out numerous strikes on Iran-backed targets in Syria, often targeting weapons shipments allegedly intended for Hezbollah, a powerful Iranian proxy in Lebanon. 

Israel has not claimed responsibility for the April 1 attack which destroyed an Iranian consulate building in the capital Damascus, including Mohammed Reza Zahedi, a top Revolutionary Guards commander.

However an Israel Defense Forces spokesman told CNN that their intelligence showed the building was not a consulate and was instead “a military building of Quds forces disguised as a civilian building.”

China expresses 'deep concern', calls for ceasefire

From CNN's Philip Wang and Irene Nasser

China has expressed "deep concern" over the "current escalation" following Iran's attack on Israel, according to a spokesperson for its Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Sunday, adding that it is a "spillover of the Gaza conflict" and a ceasefire should be implemented without delay.

In a statement, China called "on relevant parties to exercise calm and restraint to prevent further escalations."

"The ongoing situation is the latest spillover of the Gaza conflict," the spokesperson said, adding that a UN Security Council resolution calling for a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas should be implemented without any more delay.

Beijing did not  name or condemn Hamas  in the wake of the initial October 7 attacks. Since then, it has condemned the war and been a vocal  proponent of an immediate ceasefire  and the implementation of a “two-state” solution.

Last month, Chinese diplomat Wang Kejian met Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh in Qatar, the first meeting between a Chinese and Hamas official publicly acknowledged by Beijing since the outbreak of the  war in Gaza .

Wang’s visit follows efforts by Beijing to step up its profile as a  peace broker in the Middle East conflict.

US forces intercepted 70+ drones and at least three ballistic missiles, US officials say

From CNN's Oren Liebermann and Haley Britzky

US forces intercepted more than 70 one-way attack drones and at least three ballistic missiles during Iran's attack on Israel, according to two US officials familiar with the situation.

The ballistic missiles were intercepted by warships in the eastern Mediterranean Sea, one of the officials said. Iran launched more than 100 ballistic missiles in total at Israel, according to a senior administration official.

The US Navy currently has two destroyers in that area, both are guided missile destroyers capable of intercepting missile and drone launches.

US fighter jets were also part of the response to Iran’s attack on Saturday and shot down drones launched towards Israel, another US official told CNN.

Biden to meet with G7 leaders Sunday as he condemns Iran's "brazen attack"

From CNN’s Lauren Koenig

US President Joe Biden will meet with G7 leaders Sunday “to coordinate a united diplomatic response to Iran’s brazen attack,” according to a statement released by the White House. 

“My team will engage with their counterparts across the region. And we will stay in close touch with Israel’s leaders,” the statement from Biden reads. “And while we have not seen attacks on our forces or facilities today, we will remain vigilant to all threats and will not hesitate to take all necessary action to protect our people.”

US defensive assets moved to the region earlier this week and “helped Israel take down nearly all of the incoming drones and missiles,” according to the statement.

Biden also spoke to Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu following Saturday’s attack “to reaffirm America’s ironclad commitment to the security of Israel.” 

United Airlines cancels three Middle East flights

From CNN’s Sara Smart

At least three United Airlines flights headed to or departing from the Middle East have been canceled amid the ongoing conflict unfolding between Iran and Israel.

On Saturday a flight from Newark, New Jersey to Tel Aviv, a flight from Washington D.C. to Amman, Jordan, and one from Dubai to Newark were canceled, the airline told CNN in a statement.

There have been no changes to any Sunday flights for United as of Saturday night, according to the airline. 

CNN has reached out to other airlines regarding cancellations.

Biden told Netanyahu US will not participate in offensive operations against Iran, US official says

From CNN's MJ Lee

The US will not participate in any offensive operations against Iran, US President Joe Biden has made clear to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, a senior administration official told CNN.

The comments were relayed during the phone call that the two leaders shared in the aftermath of Iran's retaliatory strikes against Israel.

Biden tells Netanyahu tonight was a win, nothing of "value" hit in Israel, US official says 

Israel should consider tonight a win because the current US assessment is that Iran’s attacks had been largely unsuccessful and demonstrated Israel’s superior military capability, President Joe Biden told Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in their phone call, a senior administration official told CNN.

The US’s assessment tonight was that almost all of the drones and missiles – including more than 100 ballistic missiles -- launched by Iran had been knocked out of the sky. No cruise missile made impact, the official said, and nothing of “value” was hit. 

Bolton: 'Passivity at this point for Israel would be a big mistake'

From CNN's Heather Chen

John Bolton, the former US national security adviser and ambassador to the UN, said “passivity at this point for Israel would be a big mistake,” warning of more attacks. 

“This is not time to play academic games and message and signal. This is a question of power,” Bolton told CNN’s Wolf Blitzer. "If they came from a different location containing nuclear warheads, Israel might not be so lucky.”

A known Iran policy hawk, Bolton served in senior national security positions during the Trump and Bush administrations. A neoconservative, Bolton has in the past advocated war with Iran and a pre-emptive strike on North Korea.

In 2022, he was the target of an alleged assassination attempt orchestrated by a member of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. 

He has warned against underestimating Iran’s nuclear program, which Tehran has said is for peaceful purposes only.

“I think we have enough experience with faulty intelligence by now, not to be so sure, not to know how much of Iran’s uranium enrichment program is really being conducted under a mountain in North Korea,” Bolton said.

If Tehran sent “a wire transfer to Pyongyang,” it would give the North Koreans “enough time to put a couple of warheads on an airplane and fly them to Tehran. (But) if you take away their nuclear capability, that would be a dramatic hit to the regime, maybe enough to topple it.”

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