Kuwait City - Things to Do in Kuwait City in February

Things to Do in Kuwait City in February

February weather, activities, events & insider tips

February Weather in Kuwait City

21°C (71°F) High Temp
9°C (48°F) Low Temp
0.0 mm (0.0 inches) Rainfall
70% Humidity

Is February Right for You?

Advantages

  • Perfect temperatures for outdoor exploration - daytime highs around 21°C (71°F) make walking through souqs and outdoor sites comfortable without the crushing summer heat
  • Festival season peaks with National Day (February 25) and Liberation Day (February 26) creating spectacular celebrations, fireworks, and cultural displays throughout the city
  • Desert camping weather is ideal - nighttime temperatures of 9°C (48°F) are perfect for Bedouin-style camping in the Kuwait desert without summer's extreme heat
  • Shopping season continues with winter sales at major malls like The Avenues and 360 Mall, plus comfortable weather for exploring traditional Mubarakiya Souq

Considerations

  • Dust storms (shamal winds) are more frequent in February, potentially disrupting outdoor plans and reducing visibility to under 1 km (0.6 miles) for 2-3 days
  • Higher humidity at 70% combined with variable conditions can make the weather feel unpredictable - you might need both light layers and warmer clothes in the same day
  • Limited daylight hours with sunset around 5:30 PM reduces time for outdoor desert activities compared to longer summer days

Best Activities in February

Kuwait Towers and Waterfront Walking Tours

February's mild temperatures make exploring Kuwait's iconic landmarks perfect. The 21°C (71°F) highs allow comfortable walking along Gulf Road and up the Kuwait Towers' observation deck without summer's 45°C+ heat. Morning fog occasionally creates dramatic photography opportunities around the towers.

Booking Tip: Book observation deck tickets 3-5 days ahead during National Day period (February 25-26). Regular tickets cost 2-4 KWD. Visit early morning (8-10 AM) for best visibility and photos before potential afternoon dust.

Traditional Souq and Heritage District Tours

February weather is ideal for exploring Mubarakiya Souq and old Kuwait City on foot. Comfortable temperatures allow 3-4 hours of walking through covered alleys without overheating. Traditional winter items like heavy perfumes and wool carpets are prominently displayed.

Booking Tip: Self-guided walking is best - souqs open 9 AM to 1 PM and 4 PM to 10 PM. Guided heritage tours typically cost 15-25 KWD and should be booked 1-2 days ahead. Thursday-Friday afternoons are busiest.

Desert Safari and Camel Riding Adventures

February offers perfect desert conditions with 21°C (71°F) days and 9°C (48°F) nights. This temperature range makes overnight desert camping comfortable and camel riding pleasant during midday hours when summer would be unbearable.

Booking Tip: Desert tours cost 25-45 KWD for day trips, 60-90 KWD for overnight camping. Book 7-10 days ahead as February is peak desert season. Choose tours departing after 2 PM to avoid morning dust possibilities.

Persian Gulf Fishing and Boat Tours

February's variable conditions create excellent fishing opportunities as winter fish species are still active before spring migration. Calm mornings are perfect for traditional dhow boat rides, though afternoon winds can pick up.

Booking Tip: Half-day fishing trips cost 30-50 KWD, full-day 60-90 KWD. Book morning slots (6 AM-12 PM) for calmer seas. Traditional dhow tours typically run 20-35 KWD for 2-3 hours.

Grand Mosque and Islamic Architecture Tours

February's comfortable temperatures make exploring Kuwait's largest mosque and Islamic sites pleasant. The 70% humidity is manageable for the required modest dress code, and cooler mornings provide ideal lighting for the mosque's intricate details.

Booking Tip: Free guided tours available Saturday-Thursday 9 AM, 10 AM, and 4:30 PM (except prayer times). No advance booking needed but arrive 15 minutes early. Modest clothing provided if needed.

National Day Festival and Cultural Events

February 25-26 transforms Kuwait City with National and Liberation Day celebrations. Fireworks, traditional performances, and cultural displays occur throughout the city. February's weather allows comfortable outdoor participation in evening festivities.

Booking Tip: Most events are free public celebrations in parks and squares. Premium viewing areas for fireworks at Kuwait Towers cost 10-20 KWD. Book hotel accommodations 3-4 weeks ahead as this is peak celebration period.

February Events & Festivals

February 25

Kuwait National Day

February 25th celebrates Kuwait's independence with massive fireworks displays at Kuwait Towers, cultural performances in Salmiya and Hawalli districts, and traditional Kuwaiti food festivals. Streets are decorated in national colors and traditional music fills public squares.

February 26

Liberation Day

February 26th commemorates liberation from Iraqi occupation with military parades, air force flyovers, and patriotic displays throughout Kuwait City. The celebration continues National Day festivities with extended fireworks and cultural events.

Mid February

Kuwait International Fair

Mid-February trade and cultural fair at Kuwait International Fair Ground featuring regional handicrafts, traditional foods, and cultural performances from Gulf countries. Weather is ideal for walking between outdoor pavilions.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Light cotton long-sleeve shirts for mosque visits and sun protection - UV index reaches 8 even in winter
Lightweight jacket for evening temperatures dropping to 9°C (48°F), especially for desert camping
Dust mask or bandana for potential sandstorms - February has increased shamal wind activity
Comfortable walking shoes with closed toes for hot sand in desert areas and mosque requirements
Modest clothing covering arms and legs - required for religious sites and respectful in public areas
Sunglasses and hat for desert excursions - bright sun reflects strongly off sand even at 21°C (71°F)
Portable phone charger for long days exploring in variable weather conditions
Light scarf that can serve as dust protection, head cover for mosques, or warmth in evening
SPF 50+ sunscreen for high UV exposure during midday outdoor activities
Reusable water bottle - 70% humidity increases dehydration risk even in moderate temperatures

Insider Knowledge

Locals avoid outdoor activities between 11 AM-2 PM on dusty days - watch local weather reports for shamal wind warnings and plan indoor activities during dust storms
February is wedding season in Kuwait - expect increased traffic and hotel bookings on Thursday-Friday evenings, especially in Salmiya and Hawalli districts
Traditional Kuwaiti winter dishes like harees and margoog are featured in restaurant specials during February - ask at local restaurants in Mubarakiya area
Most locals take vacation during National Day week (February 22-28) - expect lighter traffic but some local businesses may close for extended periods

Avoid These Mistakes

Underestimating dust storm impact - visitors often don't check wind forecasts and get caught outdoors during poor visibility conditions that can last 2-3 days
Overpacking for heat while underpacking for cool evenings - February's 12°C (22°F) temperature swing requires layering options many visitors forget
Not booking accommodations early enough for National Day period - hotel prices increase 40-60% and availability becomes limited within 3 weeks of February 25-26

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