There are many questions asked by travellers thinking about visiting Kuwait. On this page Fahad Al-Rajaan provides answers to some of those questions that crop up most frequently.

 

What languages are spoken in Kuwait?

The official language of Kuwait is Arabic, but travellers will find that English, often used as a business language and taught in schools as a compulsory second language, is widely spoken and understood. Among the large expat community that makes up more than two thirds of the population, many people also speak Urdu or Farsi, the official languages of Pakistan and Iran respectively.

 

How does religion affect the actions of travellers?

Kuwait is a predominantly Muslim country, with over 95% of the population following Islam. However, it is also known for its tolerance of other religions and is the only Gulf country to have established relations with the Vatican. The Muslim holy day is Friday, when everything is closed, and many businesses also close on Thursdays to make a full weekend. During the month of Ramadan, Muslims fast from dawn until dusk. While travellers and non-Muslim expats are not required to join in the fast they are expected to respect it by not drinking, eating, smoking cigarettes or chewing gum in public during daylight hours.

 

What types of food feature in Kuwaiti cuisine?

As a primarily desert country on the Persian Gulf, Kuwaiti cuisine is dominated by animal products and especially seafood, with limited amounts of fruit and vegetables. Camel milk is prevalent and camel meat is eaten on special occasions. Outside influences throughout history have introduced foods such as hummus, tabbouleh and rice, which have become staples, as well as a larger variety of spices and flavours.

 

What activities and entertainment are there for children?

As a coastal nation Kuwait offers plenty of beaches for children to explore. There are also a variety of leisure centres and activities available, from the Messilah Water Village to the Shaab Leisure Park, with pony rides, bungee jumping and much more. Older children may like the Olympic-sized ice rink and water sports such as diving, windsurfing, sailing and kayaking. Kuwait is home to the largest aquarium in the Middle East and the small but quirky House of Mirrors museum, plus a number of other interesting museums and galleries.