Country Overview: Kuwait
Kuwait, officially known as the State of Kuwait, is strategically located at the northern tip of the Arabian Gulf, sharing borders with Iraq and Saudi Arabia. With a population of approximately 4.8 million (as of 2025), Kuwait’s society is characterized by its diversity: nearly 70% of the population is expatriates, with Arabs making up the majority of residents.
Kuwait’s economy is classified as high-income, driven by the sixth-largest oil reserves in the world. Since discovering oil in 1938, the country has undergone rapid modernization. Despite historical disruptions such as the 1990 invasion and subsequent Gulf War, Kuwait has made significant strides in rebuilding and diversifying its economy. It remains one of the region’s most democratic states with a constitutional monarchy established in 1962. The Kuwaiti Dinar (KD) is the strongest-valued currency globally.
Business Environment
Economic Highlights: Kuwait is actively pursuing its Vision 2035 agenda to diversify its economy and reduce dependence on oil by investing in infrastructure, innovation, and private-sector growth.
U.S.–Kuwait Trade: Kuwait continues to be a significant trading partner with the U.S., importing American goods, technology, and expertise across various sectors, including defense, IT, education, healthcare, and energy.
Legal Environment: Foreign business operations are subject to local licensing, sponsorship, and labor regulations. In recent years, Kuwait has strengthened corporate governance laws and investment protections.
Currency and Banking
Currency: Kuwaiti Dinar (KD); 1 KD = approx. USD $3.20–$3.50.
Foreign Exchange: There are no restrictions on the movement of funds in or out of Kuwait. International credit cards are widely accepted.
Telecommunications & Internet
Major providers: Zain, STC, and Ooredoo.
All offer pre-paid and post-paid services, 5G coverage, and mobile data plans.
VoIP services remain restricted; applications like Skype, WhatsApp calling, and FaceTime may be limited.
To obtain a local SIM card, a valid passport and a Kuwaiti visa /Civil ID are required.
Dress Code & Cultural Sensitivities
While Kuwait is progressive compared to neighboring countries, modest dress is encouraged in public as a sign of respect for local traditions. At formal or official events:
Men: Suit and tie.
Women: Formal dress (shoulders and knees covered).
At beaches or hotels, conservative swimwear is recommended. Lightweight clothing is suitable most of the year, though winter evenings may require warmer attire.
Climate
Summer (May–October): Extremely hot; temperatures range from 42°C to 50°C (108°F to 122°F).
Winter (December–February): Cooler, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 17°C (50°F to 63°F) during the day, and occasionally dipping below 5°C (41°F) at night.
Rainy Season: October to April, with sporadic rainfall and rare but intense thunderstorms.
Sandstorms: Most frequent in March and April, but can also take place in June and July (humidifiers and air purifiers are recommended).
Driving in Kuwait
Visitors must have a valid international driving permit (IDP) accompanied by a passport and visa.
GCC nationals may drive with their national licenses for up to 3 months.
Most car rental agencies require an IDP; some insurance providers may only accept claims from drivers with valid Kuwaiti licenses.
Visitor Visa Requirements (U.S. Citizens)
U.S. citizens must have a passport valid for at least 6 months beyond their date of entry.
Visas can be obtained upon arrival at the airport or online through Kuwait’s e-visa portal.
Holders of emergency U.S. passports (limited validity) are generally not granted entry.
Residency visa holders re-entering Kuwait with a temporary passport must obtain prior approval from immigration authorities.
Useful Tips for Expats and Visitors
Work Permits & Residency: Must be sponsored by an employer; includes medical exams and fingerprinting.
Language: Arabic is the official language, but English is widely used in business and daily life.
Weekends: Friday and Saturday.
Public Behavior: Public displays of affection and profanity can be considered offensive and may carry legal consequences.