Kuwait

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/

LGBTQIA+ Travelers

Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, and asexual (LGBTQIA+) travelers can face unique challenges when traveling abroad. Laws and attitudes in some countries may affect safety and ease of travel. Legal protections vary from country to country. Many countries do not legally recognize same-sex marriage. Approximately seventy countries consider consensual same-sex sexual relations a crime, sometimes carrying severe punishment.

https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/before-you-go/travelers-with-special-considerations/lgbtqi.html

Telephone Code

965

Local Emergency Phone

777

Vaccinations

The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Kuwait: hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, rabies, anthrax, meningitis, polio, measles, mumps and rubella (MMR), Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis), chickenpox, shingles, pneumonia, COVID-19, and influenza.

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

Plug Type 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, September 27, 2023