Festival

The 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.

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Overview & visitor information

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Hala February Festival

Activity

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.

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National Day in Kuwait

Activity

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.

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Liberation Day

Activity

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.

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The Gift Exhibition

Activity

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.

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Eid al Fitr

Activity

Eid al Fitr is one of the most significant festivals of Kuwait and holds tremendous religious significance for Muslims. This festival is celebrated in order to mark the end of the holy month of Ramadan. People meet to pray together and then share a meal and celebrate the message of peace and love by exchanging gifts and wearing new clothes. The Ramadan and Eid Exhibition will be held in Kuwait from the 26th of September until the 4th of October 2010 this year. The exhibition will showcase and promote carpets, gold, antiques and electronic items. The festival helps bring together shoppers and encourage the message of giving gifts during the festive season.

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What to do with Children in Tow

Activity

Kuwait is a very child friendly place, offering a wide range of activities and entertainment to keep them busy and safe at all times. You can take them to spend a whole day at the many theme parks like Entertainment City, to a more educational setting like the Scientific Centre or the Zoological Park. There are also plenty of water sports and fishing excursions for children.

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Kuwait Towers

Tower

The Kuwait towers stand as the unofficial symbol of Kuwait. The taller of the two towers stands at 187 meters high and serves as a restaurant and water storage tower as well as a viewing spot. It is designed as a sphere which rotates a full turn every 30 minutes. The second tower stands at 145.8 meters and is simply used as a water storage facility. There also exists third tower which is used as a place to store equipment and illuminate the two prominent towers. Built and designed by a company from Yugoslavia with designers from Sweden, it was opened to the public in 1979. The towers are open to the public during the weekend from 9:00 am to 23:00 am. Tel. Number: 2 444 057, 2 444 046 Fax: 2 444 139 Email Address: [email protected] WebSite: www.kuwaittowers.com

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Liberation Tower

Tower

Originally proposed to be called The Kuwait Telecommunications Tower, the Liberation Tower was completed after the Gulf War, even though work had started before the invasion. It was inaugurated with the new name in order to celebrate the country’s freedom, and to symbolize Kuwait’s liberation from Iraq. It is one of the tallest telecommunications structures in the world and the tallest monument in Kuwait, but tourists are no longer allowed to visit inside, although it is definitely worth a visit due to its extensive history and culture.

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National Museum

Museum

The National Museum is Kuwait’s first museum, and was the former home of the Al Badr family in Kuwait City. Although the architectural plans were ready by 1960, construction began only in 1981. The museum was once a treasure trove for the royal family, displaying Islamic artifacts and royal material, however after the invasion a lot of it was destroyed. It is located on the Arabian Gulf Street between the Seif Palace and the National Assembly (Parliament).

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Seif Palace

Palace

Officially known as the Amiri Diwan or "Al-Diwan Al-Amiri", Seif Palace is recognized as an emblem of Kuwait’s sovereignty. Al Seif Palace showcases a lot of the Islamic architectural culture and heritage, with the use of elaborate arches and traditional arabesque. The whole structure was constructed with locally available material and still stands strong today, despite the war and extensive reconstruction. Al Diwan Al Amiri P.O.Box: 1 - Safat - 13001 State of Kuwait. Telephone - +965 888881

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Sadu House

Museum

Sadu House was established in 1979 in order to safeguard local Bedouin handicraft traditions. This museum display woven works, art, jewellery, wall-hangings, antiques and ceramic goods all handmade by Bedouin tribes of Kuwait. The area has now been converted into a major tourist attraction with family areas, childrens play section, dining area and shopping. It is open from Saturday to Thursday and can be reached at 562-4517.

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Souk Sharq

Plaza

For all the shopping enthusiasts who visit Kuwait, Souk Sharq cannot be missed. This shopping complex has drawn tourists as well as locals to its friendly and bustling ambience for years, and caters to families and individuals and people of all ages. From a food court lined up with almost every franchise and fast food outlet, to the biggest names and brands in fashion and goods, this mall is number one in shopping in the area. It is open every day of the week from 10 am until 9 pm.

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Kuwait Musical Fountain

Fountain

A very popular and fascinating tourist destination, the musical fountain located at Al Murqab captures the attention of everyone present. It is the fourth largest fountain in the world and contains about 220 fountains which are allocated between three pools on different levels. The spectacular and dazzling show with its colourful display and unique and elaborate style of showcasing the different music and waterworks can be caught every evening between 4pm and 12 am except on Saturdays. However due to change of timings during different seasons it is advised to inquire at Tel: 2428394.

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The Scientific Center

Education

Located in Salmiya, The Scientific Centre in Kuwait serves as a hub for environmental education for the gulf region and also the largest aquarium in the Middle East. The three main attractions at the centre are the IMAX theatre, Discovery Place and Aquarium. Built with some of the most advanced technological equipment today, the center’s interiors are heavily influenced by Kuwaiti and Islamic art. Visitors interested in seeing a 3D film at the IMAX can check the schedule at www.tsck.org.kw/en/movie_schedule Those who are keen on seeing some action at the aquarium, especially with young children can check the feeding and diving times at www.tsck.org.kw/en/feeding_schedule. The centre is open every day from 9 am to 11 pm and 2 pm to 11 pm on Fridays. Ticket prices vary for each of the three attractions, but are also available in special combo packages, and can be viewed at www.tsck.org.kw/en/tickets_price.

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Tareq Rajab Museum

Museum

This museum plays tribute to Tareq Rajab, the first Kuwaiti to be sent abroad to study art and archaeology. He met his wife Jehan Wellborne while studying in the UK and the two got married in 1955, and then returned to Kuwait where Rajab was appointed as the first Director of the Department of Antiquities and Museums in Kuwait. The museum is a collection of items and artefacts collected by Rajab and his wife, and currently holds about 30,000 pieces and souveniers from their travels all over the Middle East, Central and South-East Asia and even the Far East. They opened the museum to the public in 1980, to be able to display and educate people about the cultures of the rest of the Islamic world and other heritages. The museum is open to the public from 9am-12pm and 4pm-7pm everyday, and from 9am until 12pm on Fridays. The entry is free but it is advisable for large groups to get an advanced booking through the following numbers- Curator: 531-7369 Guardian: 531-7358 Book desk: 533-9063 Email - [email protected] Website - www.trmkt.com

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Sakura 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

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Maki 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

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Totally 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

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Mais Al Ghanim Restaurant

Family-friendly

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

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Nino

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/

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Asha'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]

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Jade Garden Chinese Seafood Restaurant

Cuisine - Chinese

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Lorenzo’s

Cuisine - Italian This elegantly decorated and classy restaurant takes diners through an exquisite Italian experience. Perfect for quiet business dinners or romantic night outs, Lorenzo’s provides the visitor with a calm and exotic ambience together with the fresh Italian welcoming aromas. The Chicken Parmagiana is the most popular dish and has made Lorenzo’s a household name in the country. It is best to get an advanced reservation and book a table to enjoy the evening to the maximum. Location - Al Sour street, next to the Sheraton hotel Phone: (+965) 22400747, 2400737

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Hard Rock Cafe

Family-friendly

Cuisine - themed/ American The words ‘Hard Rock Café’ are synonymous with having a great night out. Known at an international level, the Hard Rock café in Kuwait is one of the most popular destinations for locals and tourists alike. Catering to a varied crowd of families with children, to youngsters and single people, the restaurant provides everyone with great food, beverages and all-round entertainment. Being one of the most aesthetically beautiful buildings in Kuwait, the restaurant is immediately recognised at the glass building by the sea. Tourists can also purchase memorabilia from the attached gift shop. Location - Hard Rock Cafe Kuwait Salmiya Gulf Road, Marina World Water Front Phase V Kuwait Restaurant Mon - Sun 12:00PM - 12:00AM Merchandise Mon - Sun 12:00PM - 12:00AM Telephone: 009655710004/5/8/9

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Johnny Carinos

Cuisine - Italian/American This international franchise is a very popular spot among tourists who visit Kuwait often. With their friendly service delicious food, Carinos makes the diner want to try everything they offer in the menu. With live music during the weekends, the restaurant is perfect for large gatherings with family and friends, or even for a romantic date. Some of the hottest picks out of their assorted menu include the salad with pecan crusted salmon, pasta in white cream sauce and lasagne. Location - Salmaya, Gulf Road, after Mcdonalds 809 Kuwait