Things to Do in Kuwait City

About Kuwait City

Kuwait City rises from the desert as a mix of glass towers and old trading posts. In Souq Al-Mubarakiya, frankincense and cardamom fill the air while merchants haggle just like they did generations ago. The Arabian Gulf reflects everything. Modern skyscrapers line up next to traditional dhows in the harbor, and luxury yachts anchor beside wooden fishing boats. The call to prayer cuts through the sea breeze five times daily—a reminder that religion still shapes the rhythm here. You'll hear it everywhere. The city runs on two timelines. Old Bedouin customs survive in the majlis gatherings, where Kuwaitis still sit on floor cushions and serve endless rounds of tea. Meanwhile, the skyline keeps pushing upward with new construction. Worth seeing: the souq at dusk. Merchants pack up their spice stalls as office workers pour in for evening shopping, and the temperature finally drops enough to make walking comfortable. Every sunset over the Gulf looks different. Kuwait City doesn't hide its contradictions—it displays them. Heritage sites sit blocks from luxury malls, and that tension defines the place more than any single landmark.

Travel Tips

Transportation: Download the Kuwait Taxi app or use Careem for reliable rides, as public buses have limited routes. Rent a car for flexibility, but note that traffic is heaviest 7-9 AM and 2-5 PM. Uber operates but with fewer drivers.

Money: Use Kuwaiti Dinar (KWD), one of the world's strongest currencies. ATMs are widespread and accept international cards. Most upscale venues accept cards, but carry cash for souqs, street food, and small shops.

Cultural Respect: Dress modestly covering shoulders and knees, especially at mosques and traditional areas. Remove shoes when entering homes. Avoid public displays of affection and don't photograph people without permission, particularly women.

Food Safety: Tap water is safe but bottled water tastes better. Try local favorites like machboos and luqaimat at established restaurants. Street food is generally safe during busy hours when turnover is high.

When to Visit

Kuwait City's desert climate creates distinct seasons that dramatically affect your experience. November through March offers ideal conditions with temperatures ranging 15-25°C (59-77°F), minimal rainfall (5-15mm monthly), and pleasant breezes. This peak season sees hotel prices increase 40-60% and requires advance booking. December and January are particularly perfect for outdoor exploration and dhow cruises. April and October serve as shoulder seasons with temperatures climbing to 25-35°C (77-95°F). Accommodation costs drop 20-30%, making it excellent value for budget-conscious travelers who don't mind warmer days. May through September brings intense heat (35-50°C/95-122°F) with high humidity from Gulf winds. While challenging for sightseeing, this off-peak period offers hotel discounts up to 50% and is ideal for mall exploration, indoor attractions, and cultural sites during early morning or evening hours. Key festivals include Kuwait National Day (February 25-26) featuring spectacular fireworks and parades, Ramadan (dates vary) when the city transforms with evening festivities and special Iftar experiences, and Kuwait Liberation Day (February 26). Eid celebrations bring unique cultural experiences but also higher prices and crowds. Winter months suit families and outdoor ensoiasts, while summer appeals to budget travelers and culture-focused visitors.