FOLLOW US

World Travel Guide > Guides > Middle East > Kuwait > Kuwait City

Local time Kuwait City

Currency

Kuwait City Travel Guide

About Kuwait City

Perched on the northern end of the Arabian Gulf, Kuwait City is blessed with a beautiful coastline, some seriously impressive architecture and a plethora of top notch places to eat.

Sadly, it has been cursed with some very bad neighbours. Thanks to Iraq invading the country in 1990, and the orgy of looting that followed, the city still lacks some of the confident grandeur it once called its own.

Nevertheless, a quick glance at the mighty Kuwait Towers stretching 187m (614 ft) above the glittering waters of the Gulf, are enough to show visitors that this is a city with big ambitions.

While not quite as wealthy as its oil rich neighbours, Kuwait is no slouch in the bling stakes, something the opulent rooms inside the Arab Fund Building and the sports cars racing through the traffic attest to.

For all that, the slow pace of life and the slightly more introspective character of the Kuwaitis makes it an easy-going destination – one that is rich in fascinating cultural attractions, perfect for whiling away a few hours.

Among the best is the National Museum, which contains more than 2,000 works of Islamic art, much of it recovered following the end of the Gulf War. More poignant is the Memorial Museum, which recreates the dark days of 1990 in harrowing detail.

Kuwaitis, however, are not ones to fixate on the past and are currently occupied with making everything in their city (from the magnificent aquarium to the hotchpotch of themed restaurants) bigger and better than anywhere else.

Who, but a Kuwaiti, would conclude that what supper lacks is the chance to eat it in a dhow the size of an ocean liner? While Kuwait might not have the bling of Abu Dhabi or the history of Muscat, this eccentric little city has plenty to dispel preconceptions.

Key facts

Population:
637000
Latitude:
29.330561
Longitude:
47.976080
A digital image at https://illuminoto.com

Related Articles

City Highlight: Kuwait City

With its stunning skyline, a plethora of fabulous restaurants and cultural hotspots, Kuwait City is definitely a top contender within the Arabian Gulf

Book Accommodation

Featured Hotels

SEE MORE

Ghani Palace Hotel

It could do with a bit of a facelift, but the Ghani Palace is one of the few hotels in the city where you don't have to check the address to remember you're in the Middle East. The quirky Arabian-style hotel sports Syrian furniture, Moroccan lanterns and local stucco, plus local-style hospitality to match.

Sheraton Kuwait Hotel and Towers

Jutting out of the commercial centre, this iconic Sheraton is a steal for those on a moderate budget. With 5-stars on its chest, guests can expect everything from king-sized beds and fast Wi-Fi to five fine restaurants and an English tea lounge. Mixing Arabic lavishness with European furniture, it also has a health club and a swimming pool.

Kuwait Continental Hotel

As the trophies behind reception testify, this no-frills hotel on a busy intersection is a favourite with regional sports teams. The refurbished rooms and bathrooms have an Arabian flourish with gilt-edged décor and furnishings that come as a pleasant surprise after the rather casual foyer. It also has a swimming pool and health club.

Hotel ibis Kuwait Salmiya

With a decent location near the Scientific Center, this budget chain hotel also affords some great sea views as well. The rooms are small, but clean and well appointed, and Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel. There's also an on-site gym and a buffet breakfast to set you up for the day.

Mirage Suites Hotel

What the Mirage Suites Hotel lacks in looks and luxury, it makes up for with its sea views. The rooms are basic, but comfortable and well maintained, although try for one that feature vistas over the Arabian Gulf. A short taxi ride from the Salmiya area, the hotel also has its own swimming pool, gym and sauna.

JW Marriott Hotel Kuwait City

The JW Marriot is a 5 star hotel situated in the centre of Kuwait with over 300 rooms. Their best facilities include; a pool, a spa, a fitness centre and a bar/ lounge area. The hotel also offers airport transportation and conference facilities.