Kuwait - Prosperity at the Persian Gulf

Kuwait is one of the smallest countries on the Arabian Peninsula. It lies between Iraq and Saudi Arabia at the Persian Gulf. Most inhabitants live in and around the capital of Kuwait City. The modern metropolis lies directly at the Gulf. Since Kuwait is a desert state, its climate is hot and dry. The warmest month is June with an average temperature of 36 °C. During the day, however, it can be over 50 °C. In winter, it is considerably colder with 12 °C on average in January.

A major part of the country's area is covered in the Ad Dibdiba Desert. There are only a few oases in this dry landscape. Barren sandstone plateaus, oil fields and flat hills dominate the panorama. For a few weeks in winter, when it rains more often, the desert is in full bloom. But this beauty is soon ended by the drought again. Only a few animals have adjusted to these extreme conditions. The vegetation is lusher at the coast of the Persian Gulf. You see date palms at the beach and crab banks directly before the coast. In addition, Kuwait calls nine islands its own, some of which can be visited by boat.

The Persian Gulf offers several beautiful beach sections at a shoreline which is 499 kilometres long. Both the sand and the water are heated up extremely by the sun during the summer months and can hardly be used. It is much more pleasant in spring and autumn. The temperature of the sea is still suited for going bathing in winter. If you want to follow the traces of the Bedouins, you can explore the desert by Jeep or in the traditional way, on the back of a camel. However, you should not set out on your own. Knowledge of the area, a lot of water and a good GPS are part of the basic equipment for a desert safari. Once you have all this, you can go on a unique adventure.

Kuwait has made money for several generations to come. This is thanks to the gigantic oil springs below the country's surface. About 90 percent of the country's wealth come from the selling of oil. This made it possible for Kuwait to transform its formerly small capital into a gigantic, modern metropolis. In addition, the Kuwaitis invest a lot of money in the education of its population and in health care. Despite this wealth, the Arab country adheres to its customs. The traditional family, respect for the elder and the Islamic faith are important values in the country. Hospitality rates high too.

The country's main attraction is without doubt the capital of Kuwait City. Not long ago, the desert city only consisted of a few clay houses but it has developed into one of the most important metropolises in the Middle East. You will recognise the modern Gulf city by the distinct Kuwait Towers, the water reservoirs. The Museum of Islamic Art and the Kuwait National Museum are worth a visit. In addition, luxurious skyscrapers, modern hotels and magnificent mosques characterise the urban image. Nearby you find Al Khiran, which has a luxury yacht harbour and attractive bathing locations. Failaka Island offers beautiful beaches and an interesting excavation site. 

Kuwait City offers a wide range of excellent international restaurants. The Chinese, Indian and Italian cuisine are particularly common. Of course, people traditionally cook Arab dishes. Travellers usually only get alcohol in the hotels. In the evening, the men drink strong tea or coffee and have dates. The capital is a shopping paradise. Without extra taxes, the prices for gold jewellery, luxury goods and fashion are very low. The shopping mile The Avenue as well as traditional markets like the gold and copper souq or the pearl market are highly recommended. Haggling is common courtesy here.

The capital accommodates the Scientific Center with a wonderful aquarium. Young and grown-up discoverers get their money's worth here. Not far away, you see the great leisure park Entertainment City. It promises fun for visitors of all ages but it is only opened to women a few days a week. Holidaymakers find relaxation and quiet beaches at Cape Az-Zuur. However, you should not show too much skin as this seems offensive to the locals. The natural island of Al Siyarkh invites travellers to an exciting expedition and the desert is becoming a destination for adventurers who want to set out into the golden dunes in a cross country vehicle.

As in all other Islamic countries, travellers should inform themselves about the destination's customs before they set on their journey. This way, they avoid misunderstandings. If you know English, you will get along fine in Kuwait. All street signs are bilingual, in Arabic and English.