Entry Requirements
Visa requirements for Kuwait depend on which passport you hold. Check the Traveller visa tool to see whether your passport needs a visa and, if so, how long you can stay.
Check if you need a visa for KuwaitEmergency Numbers
- Police
- 112
- Ambulance
- 112
- Fire
- 112
Currency
- Name
- Kuwaiti Dinar
- Code
- KWD
- Symbol
- د.ك
The Kuwaiti Dinar is the world's most valuable currency (1 KWD ≈ $3.25 USD). ATMs widespread. Cards accepted almost everywhere. Carry small notes for souqs and smaller restaurants.
Power Outlets
- Outlet types
- Type G, Type B
- Voltage
- 240V
- Frequency
- 50Hz
Time Zone
AST (UTC+3) — no daylight saving
Best Time to Visit
October–March is the only comfortable outdoor season (15–28°C). April–September sees temperatures exceed 45°C and severe humidity. National Day (Feb 25) and Liberation Day (Feb 26) are celebrated with public festivities.
Tipping Customs
| Venue | Typical | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Restaurants | 10% | Service charge (10%) sometimes included |
| Taxis | Round up | Careem and Uber are widely used |
| Hotels | KWD 0.5–1 for porters | — |
Dress Code
- Modest dress throughout — more conservative than UAE or Bahrain
- Shoulders and knees must be covered in public; women should cover loosely
- Swimwear at hotel pools only
- Do not wear revealing clothing outside beach/hotel areas
Social Etiquette
- Kuwait is one of the Gulf's most traditional states — public behaviour standards are strictly observed
- During Ramadan: no eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours
- Accept any offer of Arabic coffee (qahwa) and dates — it is rude to refuse
- Greet men with a handshake; do not extend your hand to a woman unless she offers first
- Family connections and tribal identity are central to social life
Local Laws
Laws change. Verify current rules with your country's official travel advisory before departure.
- Alcohol is completely prohibited in Kuwait — no sale, no consumption, no import. This is strictly enforced.
- LGBTQ+ activity is illegal and prosecutions occur
- Pork is not sold in Kuwait
- Drug offences carry the death penalty
- Photography of military, government buildings, the Emir's palace and motorcades is prohibited
- Public displays of affection between unmarried couples are illegal
Common Phrases
| English | Local | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| Hello | As-salamu alaykum | ah-SAH-lah-moo ah-LAY-koom |
| Thank you | Shukran | SHOO-krahn |
| Please | Min fadlak (m) / Min fadlik (f) | min FAHD-lahk |
| Welcome | Ahlan wa sahlan | AH-lan wah SAH-lan |
| Good morning | Sabah al-khayr | SAH-bah al-KHAYR |
Plan Your Trip
Planning a trip to Kuwait?
Traveller builds your personalised packing list, checklist, and travel brief in seconds.
Plan this trip with Traveller