Kuwait City is a compact Gulf capital of glass towers, wide roads and a long seafront. Its landmarks are the three Kuwait Towers, the restored Mubarakiya souq, and the Grand Mosque, with the Scientific Center and Al Shaheed Park along the coast.
Three slender towers on a headland, one with a revolving observation sphere and viewing deck over the bay and city.
The old central market, partly rebuilt after fire, with spice, gold, textile and perfume sections and traditional food stalls.
Al Shaheed Park, the Scientific Center with its aquarium, the Grand Mosque, and the National Museum with the Dar al-Athar al-Islamiyyah collection.
Kuwait is a dry country; alcohol is illegal and dress is conservative. Most visitors need a visa or e-visa in advance. Summers are extremely hot, so sightseeing is an evening activity for much of the year. Confirm details with official Kuwait tourism sources.
From roughly May to September, outdoor sights are only comfortable after sunset. Mornings and evenings, plus air-conditioned museums and malls, fill the day.
The towers, the souq and the corniche can be covered in a day or two. Many travellers see it as a stopover.
No alcohol, modest dress in public and at the mosque, and Friday is the main day off.
Do I need a visa for Kuwait?
Most visitors do. Many nationalities can apply for an e-visa online before travel; check current eligibility.
Can I drink alcohol in Kuwait?
No. Alcohol is illegal to import, sell or consume, including in hotels.
When is the best time to visit?
November to March, when temperatures are mild. Summer heat regularly exceeds 45C.
What is there to see?
The Kuwait Towers, Souq Al-Mubarakiya, the Grand Mosque, the Scientific Center and the National Museum, plus the corniche parks.
Kuwait City grew from an 18th-century trading and pearling port at the head of the Gulf. Oil wealth from the mid 20th century funded rapid modern rebuilding.
The city was occupied and damaged during the 1990 to 1991 Gulf War and rebuilt afterward. It is the country's seat of government and its commercial centre.
This page is an independent guide for visitors, covering any government and tourism body.
