Kuwait has plenty to offer visitors, from grand architecture and historic monuments to rolling deserts and idyllic beaches. Here are some of the best places to visit in Kuwait.
Top places to visit in Kuwait
Kuwait City
If you only visit one place in Kuwait, make sure it’s Kuwait City. The capital is packed with must-see sights, old and new, including the Grand Mosque, Seif Palace, Al Hamra, Liberation Tower, and Salvation Tower. The capital offers a mix of modern skyscrapers and traditional Arabian charm. Top things to do in Kuwait include taking a stroll along the waterfront promenade, indulging in local cuisine at bustling Souq Al-Mubarakiya, and observing the wildlife in Al Shaheed Park.
Failaka Island
Looking to escape the city? Hop on a ferry to Failaka Island, where you can discover some of the best things to see in Kuwait. Explore ancient ruins and archaeological sites, take a dip in the crystal-clear waters, and unwind on its pristine beaches. The island is becoming a tourist hot spot in Kuwait, with hotels, zoos, museums, and water sports to get stuck into.
Deserts in Kuwait
Kuwait is home to a huge expanse of desert – in fact, a large proportion of the country is desert. Head to the desert for heart-racing activities like dune bashing, camel riding, and sandboarding. The sunsets over the golden dunes are truly photo-worthy. Don’t forget to visit Kazmah Desert Cliffs for the best views over this stunning arid landscape.
Kuwait beaches
When it comes to relaxation, Kuwait's stunning beaches have got you covered. Whether you prefer a lively beach atmosphere or a secluded hideaway, there's a beach for you in Kuwait with almost 500km of coastline. Hitting the beach is one of the best free things to do in Kuwait. Kubbar Island is an uninhabited beach paradise about 30km off the coast of Kuwait. With a coral reef teaming with underwater life, it’s a popular spot for snorkelling and scuba diving.
Kuwait food & drink
Kuwait’s food scene is a fusion of Arabic, Persian, Indian and Mediterranean influences – an eclectic mix to satisfy any traveller. When you visit Kuwait, must-try dishes include machboos, a rice dish made with basmati, meat, and spices; khubz, a pita served with a mahyawa fish sauce; and shawarma, thin slices of meat cooked on a spit and served in a pita or wrap with salad and sauces. For something sweet, sample traditional Kuwaiti desserts like luqaimat (fried dumplings) and Gers Ogaily cake (also called ‘perfume cake’ for its aromatic scent). Wash it all down with rich Arabic coffee.
Shopping in Kuwait
Kuwait City is a great hub for shopping during your trip. Whether you’re looking for a mall shopping spree or handcrafted souvenirs to take home, Kuwait has it all. Some of the best shopping centres in the city are the Avenues (the second-biggest shopping centre in the Middle East), 360 Mall (for high-end shopping) and Marina Mall with its impressive glass dome and feature fountains. For a more authentic shopping experience, head to Souk Al-Mabarakiya. The 200-year-old bustling marketplace is packed with local vendors selling fresh produce, spices, street food, and handmade goods.
Best time to visit Kuwait
The best time to visit Kuwait is winter when the temperature is milder. November to April is the most popular time for tourists to visit the country. From May onwards, temperatures regularly exceed 30 degrees, with averages of 37 degrees in July and August.
Festivals and events in Kuwait
Kuwait plays host to a range of festivals throughout the year, which are some of the best things to do in Kuwait. Top festivals in Kuwait include the Hala Festival, a month-long festival of cultural and entertainment events, Kuwait International Film Festival, a prestigious event that celebrates international cinema, and Kuwait National Day. The public holiday on 25th February celebrates Kuwait's liberation from occupation with grand celebrations, including military parades, fireworks, and concerts.
