Capital: Kuwait (City)

Population (Estimated July 2012): 2,646,314

Area: 17,818 km² or 6,880 mi²

Currency: Kuwaiti Dinar (KD)

Official Language: Arabic

Political Information: Hereditary Constitutional Monarchy

Official Religion: Islam (approximately 85% of the population are Muslim and 15% have other religious beliefs)

 

GDP Official Exchange Rate (OER is more precise at gauging a countries economic power)

(Estimated 2011): $171.1 billion (US$) or (GBP)

GDP (OER) Per Capita (per member of the population estimated 2011): (US$) or (GBP)

 

GDP Purchasing Power Parity (PPP is good for gauging living conditions and use of resources but not as accurate as OER. This data has been calculated based on the sum value of all goods and services produced in the country valued at prices prevailing in the United States) 

 (Estimated 2011): $149.8 billion (US$) or (GBP)

GDP (PPP) Per Capita (per member of the population estimated 2011): $40,700 (US$) or (GBP)

 

Time Zone (GMT/UTC): +3:00

 

Counties/Provinces/States: 6 governorates (muhafazat, singular – muhafazah); Al Ahmadi, Al ‘Asimah, Al Farwaniyah, Al Jahra’, Hawalli, Mubarak al Kabir

  

Leaders: Amir SABAH al-Ahmad al-Jabir al-Sabah (since 29 January 2006); Crown Prince NAWAF al-Ahmad al-Jabir al-Sabah (born 25 June 1937), with Prime Minister JABIR AL-MUBARAK al-Hamad al-Sabah (since 30 November 2011); First Deputy Prime Minister NASIR al-Sabah al-Ahmad al-Sabah (since 12 December 2017); Deputy Prime Ministers SABAH al-KHALD al-Sabah (since 4 August 2013), KHALD al-Jarrah al-Sabah (since December 2016), Anas al-SALEH (since 2015)

 

Additional: Gained independence from the UK on the 19^th of June 1961.

 

Sources: CIA World Fact Book, Encyclopaedia Britannica.

Kuwait

Kuwait, officially known as the State of Kuwait, is a small country situated in the Middle East, bordering Iraq and Saudi Arabia. With a population of approximately 4.5 million people, Kuwait is renowned for its rich history, vibrant culture, and prosperous economy. The capital city, Kuwait City, is a bustling metropolis that functions as the political, cultural, and economic centre of the country.

Kuwait is also notable for its picturesque coastline along the Arabian Gulf, which boasts beautiful beaches and clear blue waters. Kuwait experiences a desert climate with extremely hot summers and mild winters, making it a favoured destination for tourists seeking warm weather and sunshine. The country is home to a diverse population, comprising Kuwaiti nationals and expatriates from various parts of the world.

Arabic is the official language of Kuwait, and Islam is the predominant religion, with mosques being a common sight throughout the landscape. The country possesses a rich heritage and is known for its traditional architecture, including the iconic Kuwait Towers and the Grand Mosque. With its unique combination of modernity and tradition, Kuwait offers visitors an intriguing glimpse into Middle Eastern culture and history.

Summary

• Kuwait is a small but wealthy country located in the Middle East, known for its oil reserves and modern infrastructure.
• The history and culture of Kuwait is influenced by its Bedouin roots, Islamic traditions, and the impact of British colonialism.
• Kuwait’s economy is heavily reliant on oil exports, but the government is working to diversify into other sectors such as finance and tourism.
• The education and healthcare systems in Kuwait are well-developed, with free education and healthcare services provided to citizens.
• Tourist attractions in Kuwait include the Kuwait Towers, Grand Mosque, and the Souq Mubarakiya, offering a mix of modern and traditional experiences for visitors.
• Kuwaiti cuisine is a blend of Arabian, Persian, Indian, and Mediterranean influences, with dishes like machboos, harees, and various types of kebabs.
• Future developments in Kuwait include infrastructure projects and efforts to reduce reliance on oil, while challenges include environmental sustainability and political stability.

 

History and Culture of Kuwait

 

Founding and Early Development

In the 18th century, Kuwait City was established as a trading port, and the ruling Al-Sabah family came to power, laying the foundation for modern-day Kuwait.

Modernisation and Cultural Heritage

The discovery of oil in the 20th century transformed the country’s economy and led to rapid development and modernisation. Kuwaiti culture is deeply rooted in Islamic traditions and customs, with a strong emphasis on family, hospitality, and respect for elders. The traditional clothing for men is the dishdasha, a long white robe, while women wear the abaya, a long black cloak, and headscarf.

Festivals and Celebrations

The country celebrates several annual festivals and events, including National Day and Liberation Day, which commemorate important milestones in Kuwait’s history. Traditional music and dance are also an integral part of Kuwaiti culture, with performances often featuring the oud, a stringed instrument, and lively folk dances.

Economy and Business in Kuwait

Kuwait has one of the most prosperous economies in the Middle East, largely due to its vast oil reserves. The country is a leading exporter of oil and petroleum products, which account for the majority of its revenue. In recent years, Kuwait has made efforts to diversify its economy by investing in other sectors such as finance, real estate, and tourism.

The government has also implemented economic reforms to attract foreign investment and promote private sector growth. The business environment in Kuwait is characterised by a strong emphasis on personal relationships and trust. Business meetings often begin with small talk and social niceties before getting down to business.

It is important to show respect for seniority and authority in Kuwaiti business culture. The workweek in Kuwait typically runs from Sunday to Thursday, with Friday being the day of rest. English is widely spoken in business circles, but it is advisable to have any important documents translated into Arabic.

Overall, Kuwait offers numerous opportunities for business and investment, particularly in the energy, construction, and finance sectors.

Education and Healthcare in Kuwait

Kuwait places a high value on education and healthcare, with significant investment in both sectors. The country has a well-developed public education system that provides free education to all citizens from kindergarten through university. In recent years, there has been an increased focus on improving the quality of education and promoting innovation in schools.

Additionally, there are several private international schools that cater to expatriate families living in Kuwait. The healthcare system in Kuwait is also highly regarded, with modern hospitals and medical facilities offering a wide range of services. The government provides free or heavily subsidized healthcare to citizens, with expatriates having access to private healthcare options.

Kuwait has made significant investments in healthcare infrastructure and technology to ensure that its population has access to high-quality medical care. The country also has a strong focus on preventive care and public health initiatives to promote overall well-being.

Tourist Attractions in Kuwait

Kuwait offers visitors a wide range of attractions and activities to explore. The iconic Kuwait Towers are a must-see landmark, offering panoramic views of the city and the Arabian Gulf from their observation decks. The Grand Mosque is another popular tourist destination, known for its stunning architecture and intricate Islamic design.

For history enthusiasts, the National Museum of Kuwait provides an insight into the country’s rich heritage through its extensive collection of artefacts and exhibits. The coastline of Kuwait boasts beautiful beaches such as Al Kout Beach and Al Khiran Beach, where visitors can relax and enjoy water sports activities. The Souq Al Mubarakiya is a bustling traditional market where visitors can shop for local handicrafts, spices, and souvenirs.

For those interested in nature and wildlife, the Al Shaheed Park offers a peaceful retreat with landscaped gardens, walking trails, and outdoor art installations. With its blend of cultural landmarks, natural beauty, and modern attractions, Kuwait has something to offer every type of traveller.

Kuwaiti Cuisine and Food Culture

 

Staple Ingredients and Flavours

Rice, lamb, chicken, and fish are staple ingredients in Kuwaiti dishes, often flavoured with aromatic spices such as saffron, cardamom, and cinnamon.

Traditional Dishes and Desserts

One of the most popular traditional dishes is machboos, a fragrant rice dish served with meat or fish and accompanied by a tangy tomato sauce known as daqqus. Kuwaitis also have a sweet tooth and enjoy desserts such as baklava, kunafa, and halwa, which are often served with strong Arabic coffee or sweet mint tea.

Hospitality and Food Culture

The country’s food culture places a strong emphasis on hospitality and generosity, with large family meals being a common tradition. Visitors to Kuwait can experience authentic local cuisine at traditional restaurants or street food stalls throughout the country.

Future Developments and Challenges in Kuwait

Looking ahead, Kuwait faces several challenges as it seeks to diversify its economy and promote sustainable development. The country’s heavy reliance on oil exports makes it vulnerable to fluctuations in global oil prices, highlighting the need for economic diversification. Additionally, Kuwait is grappling with environmental issues such as water scarcity and air pollution due to rapid urbanisation and industrial growth.

To address these challenges, the government has outlined ambitious plans for future development, including investments in renewable energy sources such as solar power and wind energy. There are also ongoing efforts to promote entrepreneurship and innovation through initiatives such as startup incubators and business accelerators. By embracing these opportunities for growth while addressing its challenges head-on, Kuwait is poised to continue thriving as a dynamic and forward-thinking nation in the Middle East.

FAQs

 

What is the capital of Kuwait?

The capital of Kuwait is Kuwait City.

What is the population of Kuwait?

As of 2021, the population of Kuwait is estimated to be around 4.3 million people.

What is the official language of Kuwait?

The official language of Kuwait is Arabic.

What is the currency of Kuwait?

The currency of Kuwait is the Kuwaiti Dinar (KWD).

What is the climate like in Kuwait?

Kuwait has a desert climate, with hot and dry summers and mild winters. Temperatures can reach up to 50°C (122°F) in the summer months.

What are the major industries in Kuwait?

The major industries in Kuwait include petroleum, petrochemicals, desalination, and construction.

What are the popular tourist attractions in Kuwait?

Popular tourist attractions in Kuwait include the Kuwait Towers, the Grand Mosque, the Kuwait National Museum, and the Souq Al-Mubarakiya.

What is the government system in Kuwait?

Kuwait is a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary system. The Emir of Kuwait is the head of state, and the Prime Minister is the head of government.