Kuwait is the perfect destination for any person wanting to enjoy a great lifestyle while being able to save money. Thousands of expats have already taken advantage, with more and more people moving there every year. We've got the most up-to-date information on life in Kuwait: from the extensive healthcare provided in the country, life in Kuwait as a single woman to where you can travel (for cheap!) while living in this central spot.
Quick Facts about Kuwait
Did you know?
- Expats Constitute 70% Of Kuwait's Population
- Kuwait Has The World's Sixth Largest Oil Reserve
- Kuwait Has The Largest Opera House In The Middle East
- Kuwait Has A Rich Music Scene
- As of 2020, Kuwait is the eighth richest country per capita when measured by GDP (PPP) per capita.
| Official Name | State of Kuwait |
|---|---|
| Language | Arabic, English |
| Capital | Kuwait City |
| Population | 4.207 million |
| Major Religion | Islam |
| Weather | Hot/Humid |
Life in Kuwait
Kuwait has the sixth-largest oil reserves in the world, which has made it one of richest countries on a per capita basis. The exportation of its petroleum products and natural gas have given Kuwaitis an extensive social welfare system with employment opportunities and housing for all citizens.
Kuwait has an arid climate, which means that the average annual rainfall is about 115 mm. The summer months are long and hot with temperatures reaching up to 50° C in the shade. This may seem like a difficult place for people who come from cold climates accustomed to snowfall during winter season but don't worry! There's plenty of air conditioning you can rely on so expat life will be manageable even if Kuwait isn't your cup of tea at first blush (pun intended). However, do not forget to pack warm clothes if you live there over winter because it could drop as low as 0°C.
Top Quality Healthcare Systems
in Kuwait
Kuwait has a well-respected public healthcare system that not only provides care for all its citizens but also offers low cost or free health services to expats living there. Some employers even offer private healthcare plans as part of their benefits packages, providing peace of mind and making Kuwait an attractive destination among other countries in the Middle east.
Want to know about teaching in Kuwait?
The American Creativity Academy is currently looking for qualified elementary, math, science and more teachers to start in August!
International Schools in Kuwait
With so many international schools in Kuwait, expat parents have a variety of options with which to choose. There are American and British schools that teach the respective national curricula as well as an IB program for those requiring more rigor. Additionally, there is also Pakistani education available where Arabic can be learned alongside English; French schooling is also present here with bilingual opportunities offered too!
Is living in Kuwait expensive?
Did you know that Kuwait City is 51.00% less expensive than New York (without rent)? Approximately in Kuwait, a family of four's estimated monthly costs are $2,572 and a single person estimated monthly costs are $692. Teachers in Kuwait save 60%-70% of their monthly salary.
Childcare in Kuwait
Nannies are quite common in Kuwait with many expatriate families hiring them to take care of their young ones at home. Expat parents praise the stability and convenience that a nanny brings into their family's life as well as how they can focus on work or other responsibilities without having to worry about childcare.
These caregivers usually have experience working abroad or from caring for children where English is not widely spoken so communication may be difficult but also fun! For live-in help, expect between 100KWD - 200 KWD per month plus healthcare, meals, and any additional expenses incurred during stay.
Driving and Getting Around in Kuwait
What's the best way to get around Kuwait? It doesn't really matter when you have a car! Cars are great for getting gas at cheap prices, and they come with special features like heavy duty transmissions that make it easier if there is too much traffic. The Gulf region has many cars equipped with these cool features; most of them also include air conditioning systems which keep us comfy during hot days.
Kuwaiti taxis are such a reliable and simple way to get around all day. They're also relatively affordable, so expats can save their money on other necessities while they explore the country from end-to-end! The idea of not owning a car in Kuwait is attractive to many expats, and with taxis being so reliable and affordable it's hard to find reasons why you would need one.
Outdoor activities in Kuwait
The beautiful waters of the Arabian Gulf are perfect for boating, fishing and diving. You'll find plenty to do with your camera when you visit as there are Mesopotamian-era ruins from Alexander the Great found on Failaka Island! Camping out in this area during winter months can be very pleasant if not sociable - it's rare that those who share these islands aren't willing to chat or cook dinner together.
Sports are an integral part of the culture on this island. There is something for everyone to do, from running and bike riding clubs that meet up periodically to play rugby or cricket in a more relaxed setting than traditional tournaments, all the way down to health club facilities with indoor tennis courts and beaches where one can go swimming any time they like during their stay here!
Is it safe to live in Kuwait?
Kuwait is a fantastic destination for travelers looking to explore without any worries. The country has very low crime rates and the people are always friendly, but as with every country it's best to explore with a friend or family member.
Where do expats live in Kuwait?
The Middle Eastern country of Kuwait is a thriving international hub for business and trade. The population sits at around 4-5 million, with about 70% being expatriates from other countries. As the number of new arrivals continues to grow in this fascinating city, it's important that they have an idea where everything is located and what benefits each area offers!
5 best areas for expats to live in Kuwait
Got a question about a location? We’re here to help.
Cost of living in Kuwait
Kuwait may be in an oil-rich country, but the cost of living is still relatively equivalent to many European nations. For example, there are no tax rates for cars and home prices have remained low as well - a major advantage if you're looking forward to investment opportunities! The average Western expat can easily settle down here with little difficulty. However, it's important not to forget that your lifestyle will largely dictate how much money you spend on necessities like food or activities!
Cost of Accommodation in Kuwait
What's the best way to live in a new country? Some companies offer free accommodation (like the American Creativity Academy for teachers). Else, you may have to rent an apartment or flat. It is important that you find cheap yet comfortable housing as it can be quite expensive at times depending on where your property is and what facilities are offered there (e.g., air conditioning). Most rented apartments include satellite television with some channels but not all of them covered by this service provider; if so desired, external antenna installation might work for you! If affordability isn't much of a concern then renting one with these additional amenities could make life easier: swimming pool and/or gymnasium included.
Cost of Clothing in Kuwait
Clothing can turn out to be expensive, if you go by designer labels. But Kuwait is not the only country with this problem; in fact some countries have it much worse! There's no need for winter clothing when you're living somewhere that has a hot climate year-round and plenty of clothes just aren't required on an everyday basis. Office wear for men usually consists of shirt or tie plus suit jacket depending on what type of occasion they are attending - but otherwise most days consist solely of shirts and ties sans jackets.
Cost of Food and Grocery in Kuwait
Kuwait is a melting pot of cultures and cuisine. With so many restaurants to choose from, you will always find something that suits your taste buds' needs. Did we mention the fact that Kuwait's food scene offers some of the best Arabic dishes? In case you're craving for international food products, it won't be hard finding what satisfies your palate with American options available all around town. These products can get pricey when compared to other cities but there are good alternatives at local markets.
Cost of Living in Kuwait
| Item | Cost (KWD) |
|---|---|
| Eggs | KWD 0.55 |
| Bread | KWD 0.35 |
| Rice | KWD 0.60 |
| Milk | KWD 0.40 |
| McDonald’s Big Mac | KWD 2 |
| Starbucks Coffee | KWD 1.55 |
| Meal at Restaurant | KWD 12 |
| Taxi per km | KWD 1 |
| Petrol/Gas (per litre) | KWD 0.10 |
Travelling while living in Kuwait
Kuwait has some of the best travel options in the Middle East. There are many different cultures to explore, and many places you can go within a short amount of time by plane. You could be on vacation in Egypt one day, then exploring Lebanon or Jordan for new adventures!
Kuwait is well placed strategically for travelers as it borders with countries from all over Asia and Africa- meaning there's so much more than just sand waiting at your feet when you visit this beautiful country.
Top places to travel from Kuwait (including Europe!):
| Destination from Kuwait | Flight Time | One-way Flight Cost (from) |
|---|---|---|
| Dubai | 1 hr 45 min | $115 |
| Abu Dhabi | 1 hr 50 min | $115 |
| Bahrain | 1 hr 15 min | $85 |
| Egypt | 6 hr 46 min | $210 |
| Turkey | 3hr 50 min | $220 |
| Saudi Arabia | 1hr 20 min | $170 |
| Qatar | 1hr 30 min | $205 |
| Greece | 7 hr 35 min | $260 |
| Venice, Italy | 9hr 40 min | $365 |
| London | 9 hr 15 min | $280 |
| Paris, France | 9hr 20 min | $190 |
| Barcelona, Spain | 9hr 25 min | $260 |
Living in Kuwait as a woman
What to wear in Kuwait?
Kuwaiti traditions are different from Western customs. Kuwaitis typically wear pants and dresses that cover their knees, shoulders, or both at all times of the year whereas Westerners might wear them in certain circumstances only (such as dressing up for a formal occasion). As foreigners visiting Kuwait during Ramadan must be respectful of local culture by wearing these types of clothes. Living in Kuwait as a woman means you always need to pay attention not just on your clothing choices but when going out with friends.
You will be expected to dress modestly, no matter what profession you are in. That means loose tops (longer than average), long sleeves and skirts that fall below the knee. If your top isn't long enough or if it's too tight, wear a cardigan as well for modesty purposes!
Can women drive in Kuwait?
Yes. Women are allowed to drive in Kuwait. Women who have a work-related residence permit and want an international driver's license can get one from their home country; however, women with dependent residency permits need permission from the head of household before they're able to obtain one.
Everyday life in Kuwait as a woman
While Kuwait is a conservative country in many respects, there are no restrictive laws that force women into a life of subservience. Women can enjoy their day by going to the store and getting orange juice for themselves if they want!
You can:
- Drive
- Talk to whoever you want
- Own a bank account
- Work
- Walk around alone
- Walk next to a man
What is it like living in Kuwait
Life in Kuwait is typically easy going and slow-paced compared to the U.S. or U.K., and you shouldn't expect anything to be done quickly. Grocery stores are easily accessible and although you may need to visit multiple stores to find the items that you are used to buying, however they're generally available. There's also a fair selection of imported products from Western countries. The banking system is quite different than in America - Joint bank accounts aren’t allowed and you'll have your own employment or work visa before opening an account with them
Life can seem more relaxed at times living in Kuwait --everything seems like it moves slowly but when compared side by side, it makes this country one where life feels easier because we don't always feel rushed all day long!
What is the biggest advantage to
life in Kuwait?
The best part about living in Kuwait is the numerous travel opportunities. You can fly anywhere from here, to destinations around and outside of the country. Whether you want a quick getaway for some rest and relaxation or an immersive trip that will make your heart ooze with wanderlust - it's all available right at home! Public holidays are also abundant which makes finding time off work so much easier than in other countries where they're few-and-far between.
If you are looking for an adventure, Kuwait is the perfect destination. While it can be a lot of work to find your way through this country’s cultural norms and more strict laws concerning socializing with members outside one's family network, there will always be someone willing to put in the effort to support you in Kuwait. Whether that person comes from another part of Asia or just across town or across the road makes no difference - anyone who throws themselves into their experience here will enjoy every minute of living abroad!
INTERESTED IN TEACHING IN KUWAIT?
The American Creativity Academy is looking for experienced teachers and would love to receive your application!
