WHEN TO TRAVEL TO KUWAIT

Location

Climate

The best times to visit Kuwait

Kuwait's climate is predominantly desert, with very hot summers and mild winters. To avoid extreme temperatures, it is best to travel to Kuwait during two specific periods:

• Spring (March to May) Summer: This season offers more pleasant temperatures, fluctuating between 20°C and 35°C. It's also the period when nature is in full bloom, offering an idyllic setting for your walks and visits.
• Autumn (October to November) Summer: Temperatures start to drop, dipping below 30°C. This is also a good time to enjoy beaches and water sports, with water temperatures around 25°C.

However, it is not advisable to travel to Kuwait during the summer (June to September).where temperatures can reach 50°C. In addition, humidity levels are very high, making the heat even more suffocating. Winter (December to February) may be an option for those who don't mind cooler temperatures, but be aware that some tourist attractions may be closed during this period.

Major cultural events in Kuwait

Throughout the year, Kuwait celebrates several cultural events that are well worth a visit. Here are the main ones:

National holiday and liberation of Kuwait

These two public holidays fall on February 25 and 26 respectively. The national holiday celebrates Emir Abdelaziz Al-Sabah's accession to the throne in 1950, while the Kuwait Liberation Day commemorates the end of the Iraqi occupation in 1991. The two days are marked by colorful festivities, fireworks and military parades throughout the country.

Gulf Music Festival

Usually held in March, the Gulf Music Festival is a not-to-be-missed event for lovers of Arab music. It brings together artists from all the countries of the Gulf, offering concerts, workshops and conferences on traditional and contemporary music.

International Film Festival

Every October, Kuwait hosts its annual International Film FestivalThis year's festival will be celebrating local, regional and international cinema. Screenings, competitions and meetings with directors are on the program for this major cultural event.

Public holidays in Kuwait

In addition to cultural events, it's important to take national holidays into account when planning your trip to Kuwait. Here is a list of the main public holidays:

• New Year's Day (January 1) Kuwait celebrates the start of the New Year with fireworks and festivities in the country's main cities.
• National holiday and liberation of Kuwait (February 25-26) As mentioned above, these two public holidays are marked by celebrations all over the country.
• Eid el-Fitr (date varies according to the Islamic calendar) Ramadan: This religious festival marks the end of the fasting month of Ramadan. The festivities generally last three days, during which Kuwaitis gather as a family to share meals and exchange gifts.
• Eid al-Adha (date varies according to the Islamic calendar) Also known as the "Feast of Sacrifice", this religious celebration is of great importance to Muslims the world over. In Kuwait, it is marked by collective prayers, family meals and the distribution of meat to the needy.

Immigration in Kuwait: an overview

Due to its strong economic growth and thriving oil sector, Kuwait attracts many foreign workers and expatriates. Statistics show that the country's total population is around 4.5 million, of which almost 70 % are foreign nationals. Among the most represented nationalities are Indians, Egyptians and Bangladeshis.

Expatriates by nationality

According to the latest available data, here is the approximate breakdown of expatriates in Kuwait:

• Indians : about 1 million
• Egyptians over 500,000
• Bangladeshi 300,000
• Filipinos Approx. 200,000
• Pakistani : nearly 150,000
• Other nationalities (Sri Lankans, Nepalese, Iranians...)

Expatriate employment sectors

The majority of foreign workers in Kuwait are employed in the following sectors:

• Oil and gas industry
• Building and civil engineering
• Domestic services
• Education and training
• Health and medical professions

Most popular visas in Kuwait

To enter and stay in Kuwait, foreign nationals must obtain a visa depending on the purpose of their visit. Here are the main categories of visa issued by the Kuwaiti authorities:

Work visa

This visa is required for anyone wishing to work in Kuwait. It is generally issued for a period of one to five years and is renewable. To obtain it, you need to provide a work contract, a letter of employment from a local employer and a medical certificate.

Resident visa

The resident visa enables people married to a Kuwaiti national or an expatriate holding a work visa to join their spouse. Children and dependent parents are also eligible for this type of visa.

Visitor visa

This visa is intended for people wishing to visit Kuwait for a short period (less than 90 days) for family, tourism or business purposes. It must be requested by the Kuwaiti host from the local immigration authorities.

Transit visa

Transit visas are issued to travelers in transit through Kuwait to another destination. It is valid for a maximum of seven days.

International tourism in Kuwait: some figures

Kuwait is seeking to diversify its economy by developing its tourism sector. Although the country is not yet a flagship destination on the world stage, several efforts are being made to attract more foreign visitors. Here are some interesting facts about international tourism in Kuwait:

• Number of international tourists : around 500,000 per year
• International tourism revenues The new "Saputo": close to $750 million in 2019
• Main issuing markets Gulf countries, Europe and Asia-Pacific

Popular tourist attractions

Kuwait offers a variety of tourist attractions, including:

• Lebanon Tower and Kuwait Towers
• Kuwait National Museum
• Kuwait Science Park
• The large central market
• Beaches and resorts along the coast

Future plans for tourism development

As part of its economic diversification strategy, Kuwait is planning several projects to promote the tourism sector, such as :

• The creation of integrated tourist zonesThe Boubyan island and north-western coastline are home to a number of hotels and leisure facilities.
• Improving airport infrastructureThese include the expansion of Kuwait International Airport and the construction of a new airport at Al-Jahra.
• Promoting Kuwait as a MICE (meetings, incentives, conventions and exhibitions) destinationby developing modern convention and exhibition centers.