Group trips to Kuwait

Find out the entry requirements for Kuwait, and, if needed, apply for your visa through our partner Sherpa.

Before traveling, always remember to check the government website of your country of origin for updates on the entry requirements for Kuwait – you wouldn’t want to stay home due to a bureaucratic detail!

• UK residents: review the FCDO Travel Advice.
• US residents: consult the US Department of State Travel Advice.
• Other residents: refer to your government or local consulate's travel advice.

Kuwait is in the Arabian Standard Time zone, which is 3 hours ahead of GMT/UTC. Kuwait doesn't observe daylight saving time. So if it's 12pm in the UK, it will be 3pm in Kuwait. If it's 12pm in New York, USA, it will be 8pm in Kuwait.

Kuwait uses the Kuwaiti Dinar (KWD) as its currency. The exchange rates can differ, but typically:

• 1 GBP is around 0.40 KWD
• 1 USD is about 0.30 KWD
• 1 EUR is approximately 0.33 KWD

You can exchange currency at banks, exchange bureaus, and major hotels in Kuwait. Remember to check the current rates before you exchange.

In Kuwait, you can pay using cash, credit cards, or debit cards. Most major credit cards like Visa and MasterCard are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. It's a good idea to carry some cash for smaller vendors or markets that might not accept cards. ATMs are readily available if you need to withdraw Kuwaiti Dinar. Always check with your bank about any foreign transaction fees before using your card abroad.

Tipping in Kuwait is not mandatory but is appreciated for good service.

• In restaurants, you can leave around 10 percent of the bill if you're happy with the service.
• For hotel staff like bellhops or housekeeping, a small tip, such as 0.5 to 1 Kuwaiti Dinar, is a nice gesture.
• Taxi drivers do not generally expect a tip, but rounding up the fare is common.

Remember, tipping is at your discretion and should reflect the service you receive.

In Kuwait, internet access is pretty good, with Wi-Fi available in most hotels, cafes, and malls. However, if you want constant connectivity without relying on public Wi-Fi, buying a local SIM card or an e-SIM data plan is a good idea. You can find SIM cards from providers like Zain, Ooredoo, and Viva at the airport or local shops. These providers offer various data plans that suit different needs. Public Wi-Fi is generally safe, but it's always wise to use a VPN for added security, especially if you'll be accessing sensitive information.

In Kuwait, the official language is Arabic. While English is widely spoken, especially in business and tourism, knowing a few Arabic phrases can be helpful. Here are some colloquial expressions you might hear or use:

• Hello: Marhaba
• Thank you: Shukran
• Yes: Na'am
• No: La
• Please: Min fadlak (to a male) or Min fadlik (to a female)

Kuwait uses Type G plugs, which are the same as those in the UK. The voltage is 240V, and the frequency is 50Hz. If you are traveling from a country that uses a different plug type, we suggest you bring a universal adapter to ensure your devices can be plugged in without any issues. It's always a good idea to check your devices to make sure they support 240V, or you might need a voltage converter as well.

In Kuwait, the main religion is Islam, with the majority of the population being Sunni Muslims, followed by a significant minority of Shia Muslims. Important religious holidays include:

• Ramadan
• Eid al-Fitr
• Eid al-Adha

If you're visiting, it's respectful to dress modestly, especially for women, which means covering shoulders and knees.

When packing for Kuwait, consider the local climate and cultural norms. Here's a handy guide to help you prepare:

Clothing:

• Lightweight, breathable tops
• Long pants or skirts
• Light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings
• Swimwear for hotel pools

Shoes:

• Comfortable walking shoes
• Sandals
• Flip-flops for the beach or poolside

Accessories and Technology:

• Sunhat or cap
• Sunglasses
• Power bank
• Camera or smartphone
• Universal adapter for plugs

Toiletries and Medication:

• Sunscreen
• Lip balm with SPF
• Personal hygiene items
• Basic first aid kit
• Common travel medication like pain relievers or anti-diarrheal tablets

Remember, Kuwait is a conservative country, so dressing modestly is recommended, especially for women.

Kuwait has a desert climate, so it's generally hot and dry. Here's a quick breakdown:

• Summer (June to August): Extremely hot, with temperatures soaring above 45°C (113°F). Air conditioning is a must.
• Winter (December to February): Mild and more pleasant, ranging from 8°C to 20°C (46°F to 68°F).
• Spring (March to May) and Fall (September to November): Warm with occasional dust storms.

The best time to visit Kuwait is during the cooler months, from November to April, when the temperatures are more comfortable for outdoor activities.