General Information

Kuwait, for its size is very rich with a relatively open economy. The discovery of oil did not change the identity of the people, its cultures and customs but enhanced them. It was necessary for a lot of rebuilding to occur following the Gulf War but this has bought about a balanced mix of old cultures with new facilities. Behind the glitzy opulence lies a deep sense of traditional values and warm Arabian hospitality.

Population

The estimated population of Kuwait City is in excess of 150,000 people with approximately 2.5 million people living in the State.

Language

Arabic is the official language although English is widely used and usually understood.

Currency and Banking

The local currency is the Kuwait Dinar. There is ready access to ATM networks and wide acceptance of credit card facilities.

Climate

The climate is hot in summer and milder in Winter. Temperatures are coolest between October and April. May to September the temperature gauge rises to 38 degrees and above with high humidity. The area has also been known to experience dust storms during spring.

Culture

The majority of people who are native to Kuwait have very deep religious beliefs. They are interested in maintaining their customs and culture, and many are very traditional when it comes to the clothing that they wear.

Kuwait is your prototypical oil-rich state, and travellers looking for a relaxed entry into the Muslim world can look forward to wandering around mosques, souks and other sandy traces of bygone Bedouin days. Behind the glitzy opulence lies a deep sense of traditional values and warm Arabian hospitality.