Travel Facts
US State Dept Travel Advisory
The US Department of State currently recommends US citizens exercise normal precautions in Kuwait. Some areas have increased risk. Consult its website via the link below for updates to travel advisories and statements on safety, security, local laws, and special circumstances in this country.
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories.html
Passport/Visa Requirements
US citizens should make sure their passport will not expire for at least 6 months after they enter the country even if they do not intend to stay that long. They should also make sure they have at least 1 blank page in their passport for any entry stamp that will be required. A visa can be obtained on arrival at Kuwait International Airport or online. Visa validity is usually 90 days, subject to Kuwait’s discretion.
US Embassy/Consulate
+(965) 2259-1001; US Embassy Kuwait, Bayan, Block 13, Masjid Al-Aqsa Street, Kuwait City, Kuwait; KuwaitACS@state.gov; https://kw.usembassy.gov/
Telephone Code
965
Local Emergency Phone
777
Vaccinations
See WHO recommendations
http://www.who.int/
Climate
Dry desert; intensely hot summers; short, cool winters
Currency (Code)
Kuwaiti dinars (KD)
Electricity/Voltage/Plug Type(s)
240 V / 50 Hz / plug types(s): G
Major Languages
Arabic, English widely spoken
Major Religions
Muslim 74.6%, Christian 18.2%; note: about 69% of the population consists of immigrants
Time Difference
UTC+3 (8 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
Potable Water
Yes
International Driving Permit
Suggested
Road Driving Side
Right
Tourist Destinations
Kuwait Towers; Al Kout Beach; Dhow Harbor; Katara Cultural Village; Failaka Island, Grand Mosque
Major Sports
Soccer, basketball, cricket, handball, rugby
Cultural Practices
Giving or receiving gifts with your left hand is considered disrespectful.
Tipping Guidelines
Tipping is largely discretionary. Restaurants and hotels often add a 15% service charge. If no service charge is included, a 10% tip is considered appropriate. Gas station attendants, bellhops, and drivers all appreciate small tips of $1-2 (USD) or the equivalent in dinars.
Souvenirs
Wool rugs, pearl jewelry, pottery, dried fruits/nuts, tea sets
Traditional Cuisine
Machboos (or Machboos laham) — mutton accompanied with rice cooked in the meat’s broth and a mixture of onions, raisins, and yellow split peas
Please visit the following links to find further information about your desired destination.
World Health Organization (WHO) - To learn what vaccines and health precautions to take while visiting your destination.
US State Dept Travel Information - Overall information about foreign travel for US citizens.
To obtain an international driving permit (IDP). Only two organizations in the US issue IDPs:
American Automobile Association (AAA) and American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA)
How to get help in an emergency?
Contact the nearest US embassy or consulate, or call one of these numbers:
from the US or Canada - 1-888-407-4747 or from Overseas - +1 202-501-4444
Page last updated: Wednesday, October 05, 2022
