Discover Kuwait
Hotels, halal food, prayer spaces, things to do, and itineraries in Kuwait.
Live suggestions could not load. Press Search to view results.
Must-see attractions in Kuwait
From headline landmarks and heritage icons to parks, waterfronts, and major museums, discover 13 standout sights to build into your time in the city.
Kuwait, officially known as the State of Kuwait, small, sovereign oil-rich country, holding 10% of the worlds oil reserves. The country has the world's fifth largest oil reserves and its petroleum products constitute for nearly 95% of export revenues, and 80% of government earning. Kuwait has the utmost human development index (HDI) in the Arab world and is the eleventh richest country in the world per capita. Islamic and Arabic culture has played a strong influence on Kuwait’s architecture, clothing, music and cuisine, and most of the lifestyle revolves around tradition. Seafood has always been a staple diet of Kuwaitis and still remains pop
Explore Kuwait
Muslim travel planner
Plan a Muslim-friendly trip in Kuwait
Halal restaurants in Kuwait
Kuwait’s food scene is part of the city experience. Choose from 15 restaurants and food districts with location notes and planning tips.
kuwaitSakura Japanese Restaurant
Cuisine - Japanese Known to be serving the best sushi in Kuwait, diners at Sakura get to experience the art and delicacy that is Japanese food. From sushi, sashimi, yaki-niku, teppanyaki and tatami to the best in grilled sea-food, guests are treated to Chef Akio Miyajima's magic. The spectacle and show that the chefs put on in traditional Japanese style provide for an enjoyable and entertaining meal with family and friends. Location - Crowne Plaza Hotel Open: Daily - 12:00 noon to 12:00 midnight Friday and Saturday buffet (12:00pm – 3:00 pm) - KD 10.450 + 15 % service charge Website - www.kuwait.crowneplaza.com/dinning
kuwaitMaki Japanese Restaurant
Cuisine - Japanese A very popular choice among Japanese food lovers, Maki is known for its unique culinary preparations which incorporate traditional Japanese recipes with contemporary tastes and flavours. By setting new standards in the world of fusion cooking, Maki Japanese restaurant has been able to provide diners with some of the most unique and memorable flavours in the country. From a choice of original Japanese cuisine including Sushi, Sashimi, Tepanyaki as well as some traditional dishes like Sukiyaki and Yosenabe, Maki also surprises us with their innovative specialties like Maki’s Spicy Salmon Maki, Vietnamese Maki and Special Filo Tempura. Locations - Maki Salmiya, Near Plajat street Tel. +965 5733561 & & MAKI-149 (6254-149) Maki Marina Waves, further to Salwa Al Sabah Hall Tel. +965 2244560 & MAKI-600 (6254-600) Maki The Avenues, Alrai, 5th ring road Tel. +965 2597 120, 1,2 & MAKI-846 (6254-846) Website - www.olivermaki.com
kuwaitTotally Fish
Cuisine - Seafood The best choice when it comes to seafood and fish preparations, Totally Fish is a true experience. From a colourful ambience and excellent service from all the staff, the food choices are varied not only in quantity but in the quality of flavours as well. Noted dishes from the restaurant include the Papilotte Fish, Salt crusted baked sea bass, Shrimp cakes and Baked whole fish. Locations - Avenues Mall - +965 2495 4508 Marina Crescent - +965 2224 4960 Website - www.alshaya.com
kuwaitMais Al Ghanim Restaurant
Cuisine - Lebanese One of the most famous and popular restaurants in Kuwait, Mais Al Ghanim is crowded with patrons every day of the week, especially during the weekend. With its pleasant family environment and homely flavours and tastes, this restaurant truly reflects the Arabic and regional culture. The restaurant sports a traditional Kuwaiti design and motif in its layout and décor, and its warm, friendly staff turns diners into regular visitors. A wide range of meats, vegetables and traditional Arabic items are available, and you can make use of the many combo deals for large groups and families. Location - Mais Alghanim Restaurant Gulf Road, Sharq Across from Kuwait Towers P.O. Box 1182 Safat, Kuwait 13012 Telephone: +965 2 225 11 55 (10 lines) +965 2 2402590/1/2 +965 2 2460455/6/7 Fax: +965 2 2460458 Service Hours: 12 noon till 11 pm Weekly Day Off: Sunday Email: [email protected] Website - www.maisalghanim.com
kuwaitNino
Cuisine - Italian This contemporary designed restaurant is known for its slick and funky interiors and service, combined with rich Italian flavours. The dishes and recipes they serve are known to be unique to Nino’s and are immediately recognised by regular customers. From burgers to pizza and pasta, the wide range of items on their menu is a treat and satisfaction for everyone’s taste buds. Being the first restaurant in Kuwait to introduce its Resident Dj, and the first to bring the term “Mini Burgers”onto the market in the Middle East with their “Routini”, Nino is very popular among the younger generation. Location - Waterfront, Kuwait The Avenues, Kuwait Tel: 2541900 / 2542900 Fax: 2544900 Website - http://www.nino-me.com/
kuwaitAsha's
Cuisine - Indian This internationally known restaurant chain is by far the best stop for Indian cuisine in the country. Owned by the famous Indian singer Asha Bonsle, the restaurant is just as versatile and lively as she is, offering diners with the finest in Indian culinary, in vegetarian as well as non-vegetarian, incorporating flavours and recipes from all corners of the subcontinent. This restaurant is a popular choice among locals as well as tourists, catering to taste buds at an international level. Location- Marina Mall, Seaside Salmiya, Kuwait Tel - +965 224 4502/ 224 4503 Fax - +965 224 4504 Email - [email protected]
Kuwait masjids and Muslim travel
Landmark masjids and prayer-aware notes for visitors planning salah, family movement, and halal-friendly days.
Grand Mosque
The largest mosque in Kuwait, and located in a prime location just opposite to the Seif Palace, the Grand Mosque is one of the most important sights in the country and covers an area of over 45,000 square feet. The extensive construction process started in 1979 and was finally completed in 1986, and cost about KD 14 million. This national treasure stands as an epitome of Arab and Muslim beliefs and culture, as well as contemporary technology and styles. The design incorporates and caters to the very many different Islamic influences on the people of Kuwait, from Moroccan tiles and geometric shapes, Isfahan ceramics and Indian artwork. The mosque can accommodate up to 11,450 worshipers, and the number increases to about 180,000 annually when people from all over the world come during the holy month of Ramadan. There are plenty of guides in the area to help tourists get around and learn about the history of the mosque, and there are items of clothing for tourists who are not appropriately dressed as well.
Al Muharib and Muhammad Al Khannah Mosque
Street 33, Kuwait
Al Baidan Mosque
120, Al-Farwaniya, Kuwait
Al Kandari Mosque
Block 4, Kuwait
Where to stay in Kuwait
Choose where to stay by trip style, from landmark luxury and family bases to central, airport, and neighborhood-led stays.
kuwaitRadisson BLU Hotel
This beach-front hotel and resort is located in a fabulous location, just 10 minutes from the airport. The Radisson BLU in Kuwait provides guests with the finest of recreation facilities in the country and relies on 100% guest satisfaction. The Royal Viking Club, an exclusive and state-of-the-art complex provides guests not only with regular workout equipment, but also a spa, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, table tennis, sauna and various other sporting and leisure activities, including provision for children. Address: P.O. Box 26199 Safat 13122 Kuwait Tel: +965 2567 3000 Fax: +965 2575 0155 Email: [email protected] Website - http://www.radissonblu.com/hotel-kuwait
kuwaitLe Meridien Hotel Kuwait and Convention Center
Located at the centrepoint of Kuwait’s cultural and commercial hub, the Le Meridien celebrates the many different influences of exotic tastes and arts of Kuwait; from the striking Indian cuisines to East Arabian art and Chinese imports. The outdoor swimming pool facilities, sauna and wide range of meeting and board rooms, caters to all kinds of people with comfort and ease. The hotel also arranges a wide range of sporting acitivites like golf, horseback riding, fishing and water sports. Address - Arabian Gulf Road, PO Box 27, Bneid Al Gar, Dasman, 15451 Kuwait Phone: (965) 2251 0999 Website - www.starwoodhotels.com/lemeridien/
kuwaitHilton Resort Hotel Kuwait
Accessible exclusively and located in a strategic venue just 30 minutes from the airport, the Hilton in Kuwait provides one of the most luxurious stays in the country. With free shuttle bus services to and from the airport and to various locations into the city, it is easily accessible, while keeping the guests private. Guests are able to choose from the variety of luxury villas, chalets or apartments, each fully equipped and 24 hour room-serviced. The wide range of shopping areas, dining halls and sporting and leisure activities, guests can meet their every requirement. Address- P.O. Box 7887 Fahaheel 64009, Mangaf, Kuwait 7887 Phone - 965-222-56222 Fax: 965-222-56292 Website - www1.hilton.com email - [email protected]
kuwaitJW Marriott Hotel Kuwait
Awarded Business Traveller Hotel of the year in 2004, the JW Marriott in Kuwait is located in one of the prime areas of the city. It is connected to the luxurious Salhia shopping mall and business complex, and is within walking distance to the nearby commercial and business districts. From executive floors and luxury suites, to high-speed internet and business facilities, the hotel keeps guests on track and on the move with the city. With incredible culinary choices and an exclusive health club and recreation facilities, guests are pampered to the maximum. W Marriott® Hotel Kuwait City Al Shuhada Street P.O. Box 26302 Safat, Kuwait City, 13124 Kuwait Phone: 965 2 2455550 Fax: 965 224 38391 Sales: 965 2 299 7029 Website- www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/kwijw-jw-marriott-hotel-kuwait-city
kuwaitSheraton Kuwait Hotel & Towers
This luxury hotel is located in the heart of Kuwait city, amongst all the commercial and energetic financial district. The combination of classic and contemporary styles gives guests the perfect atmosphere of relaxation. A wide range of premier facilities are offered to guests, from an outdoor swimming pool, fully equipped health club, 24-hour business centre, wi-fi internet access, car-rental services and a variety of gourmet cuisines catering food from all over the world. Adress- Safat 13060 / Fahd Al-Salem Street, P.O. Box 5902 Safat Kuwait City, 13060 Kuwait Phone: (965) 1835 555 Website- www.starwoodhotels.com/sheraton
History and today in Kuwait
Read the city today, its history, residents, culture, and character before planning your route.
Visa Information
To enter into Kuwait, travelers must have a passport valid for a minimum of six months. Visitors from other GCC countries may enter and reside in Kuwait without having to go through any particular formalities.
City Information
When to go
The winter (December to February) months are the chilliest in Kuwait, from temperatures ranging between 7°-18° C. The months of spring (February to April) offer visitors the perfect climate to explore the city, with pleasant breezy weather allowing for the desert to be blooming with exotic flowers. Even though Kuwait is not as humid as its neighboring gulf countries, the heat during summer months can prove to be extreme, going up to a high of 50°C.
DiscoverCity Information
Fast Facts
-Location: Kuwait is positioned in the northeast of the Arabian Peninsula and lies on the northwestern shore of the Gulf. It is bordered by Saudi Arabia to the south and Iraq to the north, and covers an area of 20,000 square kilometers. -Dialing code +965 -Emergency numbers Fire & Ambulance - 100 Police - 101 Red Cross - 105 Missing Children - 110 Emergency Services - 112 Directory - 1307/1234 Airport Enquiry - 24319829; -Population: 2.9 million; -Languages: Arabic and English
DiscoverCity Information
Exchange Rates
The currency used in Kuwait is the Kuwaiti Dinar (KWD).
DiscoverCity Information
Public Holidays
1 Jan New Year's Day. 25 Feb National Day. 26 Feb Liberation Day. 26 Feb Mouloud (Birth of the Prophet). 9 Jul Al-Esra Wa Al-Meraj (Ascension of the Prophet). 11 Sep Eid al-Fitr (End of Ramadan). 17 Nov Eid al-Adha (Feast of the Sacrifice). 7 Dec Islamic New Year.
DiscoverCity Information
Annual Temperature
a- January: High 13 °C Low 9 °C; ..........b- February: High 19 °C Low 12 °C; ..........c- March: High 22 °C Low 16 °C
DiscoverCity Information
Kuwait’s Residents
The population of Kuwait is estimated to be around 3-3.5 million people, including expatriates as well as locals; and about one-third of them are Kuwaiti nationals. Majority of the expatriate population comprises of Egyptians, Bangladeshis, Filipino, Pakistani and other Asian nationalities. 85% of the Kuwaiti population is made up of Muslims, and the other 15% are Christian, Hindu, Sikh, Parsi and Jewish. The urban population of Kuwait is currently at 96%, and the country hosts one of the highest literacy rates of the Arab world, that of 93%. Kuwaitis are an extremely friendly and hard-working people, who love to celebrate and welcome families and friends. Their war-stricken past has made them into one of the most patriotic and lively peoples who are very family oriented and eager to learn.
DiscoverCity Information
Kuwait today
Kuwait, officially known as the State of Kuwait, small, sovereign oil-rich country, holding 10% of the worlds oil reserves. The country has the world's fifth largest oil reserves and its petroleum products constitute for nearly 95% of export revenues, and 80% of government earning. Kuwait has the utmost human development index (HDI) in the Arab world and is the eleventh richest country in the world per capita. Islamic and Arabic culture has played a strong influence on Kuwait’s architecture, clothing, music and cuisine, and most of the lifestyle revolves around tradition. Seafood has always been a staple diet of Kuwaitis and still remains popular and exotic today. The major cities of Kuwait are its Capital Kuwait City and Jahrah, while Salmiya and Hawalli remain its most densely populated residential and commercial areas.
DiscoverUseful information
Shopping in Kuwait
Explore 13 shopping stops, from malls, markets, and book bazaars to fashion streets and souvenir finds.
kuwaitVilla Moda
Villa Moda is one of the most luxurious departmental store in Kuwait, and is the one-stop shop for anyone looking for the biggest names in fashion. It was founded by the 35 year nephew of the Amir of Kuwait, Sheikh Majed Al-Sabah, who opened the mall on its brand new premises in 2002. Designed specially by Italian architect Pierfrancesco Cravel, the building is made entirely of glass and over looks the Persian Gulf. The mall houses top internationally known brands like Prada, Gucci, Fendi, Yves Saint-Laurent and Ferragamo and many others catering to the most elite crowd in Kuwait and abroad. Villa Moda Lifestyle Building Free Trade Zone Shuwaikh Port P.O. Box 12112 Al Shamiya 71652 Kuwait Tel - +965 2482-7004 Email - [email protected] Website - www.villa-moda.com
kuwait360 Mall
One of the most uniquely designed and aesthetically appreciated shopping complexes in Kuwait, the 360 Mall opened its doors less than a year ago. It contains Kuwait's largest collection of international designer brands. This mall has everything for everyone, from a 1200 seat Food Lounge, to never before seen entertainment centers and attractions. The luxury shopping area is divided into 7 exclusive zones, and the availability of information desks makes it very easy to get around. It’s distinctive style and ambience makes it a pleasure for also those visitors who don’t want to shop and simply want to take their family for an enjoyable day out. The mall is open from 10am to 10pm every day and until 11pm during the weekend. PO Box - 29060, Safat Postal Code - 13151, Kuwait
kuwaitAvenues
This is Kuwait’s largest mall and is on it way to be the largest mall of the Middle East. So far two out of four proposed phases have been complete, phase two being the most luxurious and high-fashion catering section so far. It’s natural and desert-inspired architecture and design gives the visitor a very homely yet lavish experience. With renowned brands like Zara, Banana Republic, Bershka, Debenhams and Avenues are found here, as well as the country’s first Carrefour hypermarket. The entire mall is expected to be completed in 2011, but is already able to cater to the most exclusive shoppers. Address - Al Rai, 5th Ring Road, p.o box 5132, Safat - 13052 Telephone - +965 2259 7777 Website - www.the-avenues.com
kuwaitSalhiya Complex
Situated in the heart of Kuwait City, this shopping mall offers the most convenient and popular stops for tourists and locals alike. From upscale brands like Valentino, Bulgari, Rolex, Dior, Versace, Louis Viutton and Jimmy Choo to a vast collection of interior items and accessories, shoppers are known to get lost in the world of the Salhiya Complex. Tel No. 22490888 Email [email protected]
kuwaitMarina Mall
One of the hottest spots among the younger crowd of Kuwait, Marina Mall is part of the Marina World venture which started in 2002. it is Kuwait’s second largest shopping and entertainment complex and is located on the beautiful marina beachfront. Marina World not only has a shopping mall, but also a five-star hotel, convention center, party halls, cinema and food court. Some of the outlets that the mall houses are Massimo Dutti, Oasis, Aldo, River Island, Camaieu, French Connection sand Hugo Boss. Salem Al Mubarak Street Salmiya - Marina World P.O. Box 2232, Safat 13023 Kuwait Tel: +965 22 44 666, Ext: 4228 / 4221 Fax: +965 57 44 433 Website - www.marinaworldkuwait.com
Signature sights in Kuwait
A curated pick of the city's standout sights, led by the strongest editorial recommendations.
Festivals and events in Kuwait
Plan around 6 festival seasons, public events, Ramadan/Eid periods, book fairs, art cycles, and winter food activity.
kuwaitHala February Festival
Hala February Festival is an annual festival held in this auspicious month, where a variety of activities, carnivals, games and events are organized for families and children. It is the most prominent of all occasions in the country and signifies the arrival of Springtime. Cultural activities are encouraged and many opportunities are opened in areas of poetry and musical events, sporting activities, games and prizes and educational seminars. Tourists are especially welcome in participating in all the festivities, especially because the month is known for its spectacular weather and beauty of nature, when the arrival of seasonal birds and animals add to the colourful and scenic view.
kuwaitNational Day in Kuwait
National Day in Kuwait is celebrated on the 25th of February to mark the creation of the state in 1961. The nation-wide festivities include an elaborate fireworks display, public meetings and conferences, get-togethers with food and drink for everyone and plenty of entertainment and activites. A lot of families visit each other to mark their country’s national day, but many people are seen celebrating in public areas like the Messila Beach and Al-Sha'ab Leisure Park, where the crowds vary from young children to their elders. Almost the whole country is lit in bright lights and decorated with the national flag and emblems, and citizens are usually seen in traditional clothing.
kuwaitLiberation Day
Liberation Day in Kuwait marks one of the most meaningful and joyful days for the people of Kuwait. It is celebrated to commemorate the liberation of Kuwait by the Allied forces of Iraqi occupation from August 1990. This traumatic ordeal ended on the 26th of February 1991, and is celebrated with huge rejoice and passion on this day every year. The Kuwaiti flag is displayed from the highest points all over the country, and people are seen congratulating and feasting together to give thanks to all the lives that were lost during the war, and to celebrate their liberation and freedom.
kuwaitThe Gift Exhibition
The Gift Exhibition is a committed event showcasing the luxury in gift items and home-ware products. At Gifts Exhibition your company will make face to face contact with leading buyers from all over the world. It is a biannual event that is held at the International Fairs Ground in Mishref of Kuwait city. Buyers from all over the world come to Kuwait to see over a 100 companies display their products, from household items and furniture to jewellery, accessories and perfumes. This year it is held from the 25th of March until the 3rd of April 2010.
kuwaitThe Kuwait International Trade Fair
The Kuwait International Trade Fair is organized by The Kuwait International Fair Company, and attracts a lot of tourists from all over the world. It serves as the perfect platform for domestic, as well as international companies to showcase and promote their businesses. Importers and exporters from various types of markets come together to discuss and take part in the convention. The fair helps promote international trade and commerce by holding various seminars, meetings and talks and helps generate communication between many different sectors. This year it will be held between the 9th and 13th of March 2010.
Kuwait tours and experiences
Heritage walks, food crawls, coastal trips, museum circuits, family days, and guided ideas for an easier day out.
kuwaitOrganized Tours in Kuwait
Kuwait Tourism Service Company This is the country’s first inbound tourist operator, providing tours and services for locals and tourists who want to explore Kuwait. Tourists are given exclusive packages and deals and are shown all the sites in the country at best rates, and can choose from 13 different tours, some of which are The Coastline Classic, Black Gold Adventure, Shoppin’ Experience, Mystic Highlights and Island Discoveries. P.O. Box 21774 Safat, 13078 Kuwait Tel: (965) 2451734 / 36, 2436124 / 74 Fax: (965) 2451731 E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.ktsc-q8.com
The Irhal city file
Kuwait travel guide sections
Focused sections for articles, directories, maps, and trip planning.
