Kuwait : Safety by City
Kuwait is a small desert nation with outsized wealth, oil reserves, and a firm grip on tradition.
Sitting at the northern edge of the Persian Gulf, it acts as a cultural and political buffer between Iraq and Saudi Arabia.
Once a quiet fishing and pearling outpost, Kuwait transformed rapidly after oil was discovered in the 20th century.
It was invaded by Iraq in 1990, leading to the Gulf War, but has since rebuilt into one of the richest countries in the region.
In 2024, over 4.5 million people visited Kuwait.
Many come for business, but the country also draws travelers interested in Gulf culture, architecture, and a different kind of Middle Eastern experience.
Life has a slower pace here compared to Dubai or Doha.
Visitors can explore waterfront promenades, modern shopping malls, and museums in Kuwait City, or venture to Failaka Island to see archaeological remains.
The country is flat and arid, with long stretches of desert and no mountains, but the coastline provides scenic views and seasonal outdoor attractions.
Kuwait is often described as one of the safer places in the Middle East.
That’s true in terms of crime and conflict, but safety here depends heavily on understanding local laws, customs, and political red lines before you go.
Warnings & Dangers in Kuwait
OVERALL RISK: LOW
Kuwait is relatively low-risk for most travelers. Crime is minimal, and infrastructure is solid. But laws are strict, and mistakes can turn serious fast. Don’t assume the same rules apply here as at home. Know the customs, stay informed about regional issues, and avoid anything political. If you follow the rules, you’ll likely have a smooth trip.
TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: MEDIUM
Risk is medium. Roads are good, but driving habits are aggressive, and traffic laws are loosely followed. Taxis are common, but not all are metered. Always agree on a fare up front or use a ride-hailing app like Careem. Public transport exists but isn’t tourist-friendly, so most people stick to private transport.
PICKPOCKETS RISK: LOW
Pickpocketing isn’t a major issue in Kuwait, but that doesn’t mean it never happens. In crowded markets or malls, keep your bag zipped and don’t leave your phone sitting on the table. Theft is rare, but being careless in busy places still makes you a target. Use common sense, and you’ll be fine.
NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM
Natural disasters aren’t a big concern, but the climate can be brutal. Expect extreme heat most of the year and occasional dust storms that can reduce visibility fast. Air quality dips when that happens, especially for people with asthma or allergies. No earthquakes or floods to worry about, but don’t underestimate the weather.
MUGGING RISK: LOW
Mugging is rare in Kuwait. Violent street crime isn’t common, and locals are generally respectful of personal space. Still, don’t go wandering around industrial or isolated areas at night. Most visitors feel safe walking in public areas during the day, especially in places like Kuwait City or near the waterfront.
TERRORISM RISK: MEDIUM
Given the proximity to terrorism and the ongoing concerns, treat this as a medium risk. Kuwait keeps a close eye on internal security, and tourist areas are well monitored. That said, avoid large gatherings or political events. If tensions flare nearby, stay alert for any embassy updates or airspace disruptions that could affect travel.
SCAMS RISK: LOW
Scams aren’t a major problem, but they exist in small ways. Overpriced taxis, vague tour costs, and surprise “fees” can catch visitors off guard. Kuwaitis are generally honest, but expats looking to make a quick buck might not be. Know what you’re paying for, and don’t be afraid to ask questions.
WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: MEDIUM
Women generally report feeling safe in Kuwait, especially in well-lit public areas. The risk is medium if you’re traveling alone. Dress modestly, avoid isolated areas, and be aware that public harassment, while not common, can happen. Solo women should use official taxis or hotel transportation when possible, especially at night.
TAP WATER RISK: LOW
Tap water in Kuwait is treated, but it’s not always pleasant to drink. Some hotels filter it further, but most travelers stick to bottled water just to be safe. It’s fine for brushing your teeth, but if you’re sensitive to water changes or have a weak stomach, grab a bottle of water to be safe.
Safest Places to Visit in Kuwait
The Ministry of Tourism runs the website www.media.gov.kw.
During my research, access was hit or miss, and translating Arabic to English wasn’t always working.
You can also try the Instagram account @kuwaitourism.
If you’re visiting Kuwait and sticking to safer, well-developed areas, most top attractions are located in or near the Kuwait City metro area.
The Kuwait Towers are the most recognizable landmark, offering views of the coastline and a small museum.
The Grand Mosque, the largest in the country, allows guided tours and provides insight into Islamic architecture and culture.
The Avenues Mall is a massive shopping and dining complex that’s more than just retail.
It’s a local gathering place and offers everything from high-end brands to casual cafes.
The Tareq Rajab Museum and Dar Al Athar Al Islamiyyah both house impressive private collections of Islamic art, jewelry, and manuscripts.
For outdoor space, Al Shaheed Park combines walking paths, gardens, and two small museums focused on Kuwait’s history and environment.
Failaka Island, accessible by ferry, offers ruins from both ancient Greek and more recent history, though you’ll want to check ferry schedules in advance and confirm it’s open to tourists at the time of travel.
Places to Avoid in Kuwait
Most of Kuwait is safe for visitors, but a few areas are better avoided entirely, either due to leftover war hazards or high crime.
Within the Kuwait City metro area, the Jleeb Al-Shuyoukh neighborhood near Kuwait International Airport has a higher rate of crime.
Petty theft, unsafe housing, and occasional violence make it a spot worth skipping.
That comes right from the Kuwaiti police.
Don’t risk it.
You may pass through the area in transit, but don’t stay there and avoid walking around, especially at night.
Avoid any desert areas near the Iraqi border, especially north of the Mutla’a Ridge.
It comes with the highest risk level according to most government advisories.
This region still has unexploded landmines and munitions from the 1990 Gulf War.
These zones aren’t always clearly marked, and signs may be faded or confusing.
Stick to well-trafficked areas, and when in doubt, ask your hotel or guide for local safety updates before heading anywhere off the map.
Safety Tips for Traveling to Kuwait
- In Kuwait, dial 112 for police or emergency services. Police are active in major cities and business areas, but their response can vary. There’s no specific tourism police, and enforcement may be limited outside major zones. Don’t expect much English in routine interactions. If something serious happens, contact your embassy right away.
- Kuwait doesn’t use a centralized emergency alert system for tourists. Local media and embassy websites are the best sources for real-time updates on safety, weather, or political issues. During major events or environmental alerts, information can be limited in English, so check with hotel staff or trusted local contacts.
- You can drive in Kuwait with an international permit or a valid license from select countries. Traffic is aggressive, and accidents are common. Roads are in good condition, but drivers often ignore lane rules and signals. Pedestrians do not have the right of way, so be alert even when walking.
- Arabic is the official language, but English is widely used in hotels, malls, and many businesses. Outside of those areas, don’t expect fluent English. Signs are often bilingual, but communication may require patience. Downloading a translation app or learning a few basic Arabic phrases will make things easier.
- Even minor insults or gestures can be taken seriously. Swearing, rude hand motions, or confrontational language in public could lead to fines or arrest. This includes arguments with taxi drivers, police, or strangers. Stay calm, keep your tone respectful, and avoid heated public exchanges.
- Sexual relationships outside of marriage are considered illegal in Kuwait. Hotel staff may ask for proof of marriage if you’re sharing a room with a partner. This law applies to everyone, regardless of nationality. Public displays of affection are also frowned upon and may attract attention or complaints.
- Same-sex relationships between men are criminalized in Kuwait. Penalties include prison time, especially for those over age 21. There are no legal protections for LGBTQ+ individuals, and open expression may lead to arrest or deportation. Discretion is essential, and travelers should avoid any public or online content that could be viewed as controversial.
- Women should wear clothing that covers their shoulders and knees, especially in malls, restaurants, and government buildings. Solo travelers should take extra caution in isolated areas, on public transport, or when using taxis.
- Public Wi-Fi in Kuwait isn’t always safe. Criminals may use unsecured networks to access personal info, banking apps, or emails. Use a VPN if possible, avoid entering sensitive data on shared networks, and keep social media activity low. Authorities monitor online content, so avoid posting anything critical of the government or local culture.
- Kuwait frequently experiences poor air quality due to dust storms, high vehicle emissions, and industrial pollution. Air pollution levels can spike without warning, especially in the hotter months. Travelers with asthma or respiratory conditions should monitor air quality indexes and limit time outdoors on high-pollution days. Carry a few extra COVID masks to help keep the air particles from causing health issues.
So... How Safe Is Kuwait Really?
Sometimes, the government advisory levels don’t make much sense to me.
Considering it’s my job to read them, I’m glad I can help sort this one through for you.
First, most countries will rank a country from Level 1, “Normal Precautions,” to Level 4, “Avoid All Travel.”
For Kuwait, here’s how it breaks down:
- United States: Level 1 Normal Precautions
- Canada: Level 2 Exercise a High Degree of Caution
- Australia: Level 2 Exercise a High Degree of Caution
- Germany: Increased Caution
What’s particularly unique is that the United States doesn’t fall in line with Canada and Australia.
In fact, they lower the risk a bit. In my experience, the U.S. will raise the risk more than Australia or Canada.
Where they all align is in the riskier areas or places to avoid, as we discussed earlier.
One of the best ways to plan a safer trip is to get to know the customs and unique laws.
We went through a few of those in the safety tips, but as another example, don’t bring anything that even suggests it is pornography.
That includes images on your phone.
Anyone from a Western country should know the risks of terrorism and how to be vigilant without being too scared to visit.
It’s also worth monitoring the tension between Israel and Lebanon.
If conflict spreads, airspace disruptions, protests, and shifts in diplomatic or military posture could impact travel to and from Kuwait.
All that said, Kuwait is probably the safest country in the Middle East to visit.
Just remember, the regional safety bar isn’t exactly high.
How Does Kuwait Compare?
| Country | Safety Index |
|---|---|
| Kuwait | 66 |
| Djibouti | 38 |
| Croatia | 83 |
| Mexico | 65 |
| France | 64 |
| Puerto Rico | 34 |
| Somalia | 16 |
| United Kingdom | 77 |
| Peru | 50 |
Useful Information
Visas
Most travelers need a visa to enter Kuwait. Many nationalities, including U.S. and EU citizens, can apply online for an eVisa. Visa-on-arrival options are limited and shouldn’t be relied on. Always double-check entry rules before booking. Entry can be denied without explanation, especially if you’ve previously visited certain countries (Israel, for example) or hold dual citizenship.
Currency
Kuwait uses the Kuwaiti dinar (KWD), one of the strongest currencies in the world. Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s smart to carry cash for taxis, small shops, or markets. ATMs are easy to find in cities. Avoid exchanging currency at the airport, where rates are less favorable than at banks or licensed exchange centers.
Weather
Kuwait is extremely hot for much of the year. Summer temperatures often exceed 110°F, with little relief. It is a "dry heat" inland, but the coastal areas can get more humidity. Winter (November to March) brings milder weather, making it the best time to visit. Sandstorms can happen at any time, but are more common in spring. Always check air quality reports before planning outdoor activities.
Airports
Kuwait International Airport (KWI) is the main entry point. It’s modern, busy, and generally well-organized, though lines at immigration can be long. Taxis are available, but agree on a price first or use an app like Careem. Expect thorough security checks both entering and leaving the country.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is essential. Some policies may exclude coverage for Gulf countries, so read the fine print. Make sure your plan includes medical care, repatriation, and coverage for high temperatures or respiratory conditions. Hospitals in Kuwait are generally well-equipped, but costs can be high without proper insurance. Proof of insurance may be requested on arrival.
Kuwait Weather Averages (Temperatures)
Average High/Low Temperature
| Temperature / Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| High °C |
18 | 20 | 25 | 31 | 36 | 41 | 47 | 47 | 41 | 34 | 27 | 21 |
| Low °C |
11 | 14 | 18 | 23 | 27 | 31 | 35 | 35 | 29 | 25 | 19 | 13 |
| High °F |
64 | 68 | 77 | 88 | 97 | 106 | 117 | 117 | 106 | 93 | 81 | 70 |
| Low °F |
52 | 57 | 64 | 73 | 81 | 88 | 95 | 95 | 84 | 77 | 66 | 55 |
Kuwait - Safety by City
| City | Safety Index |
|---|---|
| Kuwait City | 69 |
Kuwait is very safe to travel
Its all bullshit, i am 26 years in kuwait and never heard of any terrorist attack 1 incident in june 2015.Trust me anyone can travel in public transport and taxis at amytime of the day amd I guarantee that there is zero risk. And Kuwait has nearly zero rape/crime rates google it.
This page was written by somone that doesnt know a shit about kuwait.
Then you should be able to give guidance on how to come to kuwait, I’m from Africa Ghana precisely, but I’m non Muslim, I do not speak or understand Arab how possible,are there Africans there, I really want to visit Kuwait.
Hello, my friend, I am from Kuwait. All places, or 90% of the shops, know English. There are employees from Africa in coffee shops such as Arabica.. We don’t care what people’s religion is and we don’t ask them
Your wrong mate my girlfriend who is a maid had twice been raped by her employer why doing her job Kuwait I a country with many desperate men an rapist wouldn’t know how to treat a woman…. Next comment..??
I worked in kuwait for 15 years. It sucks. Too much trash and drugs. And rape is daily. Driving is nuts. So glad I left.
Kuwait Sucks!
I agree with you so much, I am a boy, so I have came across places which were poorly lit in my area, and have been molested heavily twice. One I could escape. It’s tough living there. I don’t recommend it at all. I am going to Canada with my parents. It’s got better reputation.
Trash abd drugs and rape ? Are you sure yu went to kuwait? Cuz there is nothing from what you said
rape is everywhere whenever you go in the world
Nice peacefull
I just got back ,and it is safer than London.
Kuwait is one of the safest countries around the world. There’s no terrorism in kuwait, it is very safe there. It is very hot over there, but the AC is literally every where except the distance between your car and your door.
like Miami! 🙂
Amazing
Your sunniest days ever 🙂
Kuwait might be the safest country in the world. I left my car unlocked several times and didn’t lose a thing from it. Malls are nice. Heritage places and many landmarks are options to visit. Choose your travel date from October to April. Bargain whenever you can. Check reviews for your taxi’s company. Many points in this report are exaggerating single incidents to draw a negative overall review which is irrational.
Sir please this is my WhatsApp number ********* there’s something I want us to discuss pls
Kuwait is SO SAFE
I lived in Kuwait for about 14 years, I’ve never ever got scammed and taxis are great I like the transportation we had 1 terrorist attack for about 30 years and whoever wrote this dosen’t know anything about Kuwait, I really recommend you to visit Kuwait it’s preset cool.
Sir this is my whatsap number ****** I really want to know more about Kuwait I have the intention to visit Kuwait thank you
Extremely safe Kuwait Is
Even at night no one dare to touch you
Nice, can I go there for work as a panel beater, and are dey do panel beater well over there.
I am afraid of going there for work
kuwait is so safe
Kuwait is a really nice country. I am Kuwaiti, and it’s a safe country u can google it. this report is full of lies. but I recommend it for everyone who wants to come to Kuwait for work or just a visit to stay inside Kuwait city or somewhere near to it I don’t recommend u to live in a place Kuwaitis don’t live in.
Can i get a job there as a forklift driver?
Kuwait could be a nice place, but the people are not good at all, they are racist. They don’t like some people. You must knowing whom I meant. Indians of course. I have lived there for half my life. Kuwaities are unfriendly to Asians… Its like they hate them.. ITS NOT A FRIENDLY COUNTRY at all……. And that is not gonna change either
Kuwait is a very racist country. Terrorist risk is bullshit and it won’t happen. But watch out for racist locals that think they’re top of the world just because of money.
So Please don’t visit here
that aint true
Umm u sure about dat? cuz u never been to kuwait before
he is totally right, horrible crimes happens just because of racist attitude and yes cuz of money.
No terrorism exists
Just try to go there because lots of shops will offer you free things and kuwait is kind and not racist like u ..
RACISM is nt gonna change
Yes Kuwait is a country with racism…… Not doubt abt that… Coz I hv been there half my lifetime.. Even I have small connection with a Kuwaiti family….. Their children s attitude was so horrible…
Am Onyitex Sabah plss can someone take me to Kuwaiti am in Nigeria
Hello everyone am Onyitex Sabah, plss i love Kuwaiti country can someone come and take me to Kuwaiti am in Nigeria
Onyitex Sabah…don’t go to kuwait,you can only get a job as a maid there and you will get raped by the man of the house regularly…make your research
Kuwait is amazing and I have lived there all my life and never heard of rape happening here.
What I can say about Arabic countries is that it is not totally safe for woman mostly especially African though I won’t deny that there are some good people but the percentage is low
Kuwait travel ban
I have been hearing so much about Kuwait and, currently I and my family are planning on getting a visa for me but I got a news that Kuwait are not accepting people from different country. Please how true is this because I’m supposed to be processing my papers now. Thanks
Exaggerated .. Big time
Absolute exaggeration.
1 terrorist attack in something stupid like 30-40 years doesnt make it the risk HIGH.
What would you call cities like London? Super high? Or New York? MEGA high?
I agree with the roads, people cant drive for shit here, still better than some other places in the region (that aint saying much).
Even the temperatures are wrong. Its scorching hot from June to maybe end of August? If you are lucky, it gets better in September. Otherwise, temperature is great in spring and winter.
Natural disasters? Dust storms (duh) and flood once a year due to heavy rainfall during winter and it being a flat country.
I am from Kuwait (33 F)
Regarding terrorism , it is defiantly not true. it happened once in our lives in and that was it. it is a very safe country. I can drive round anytime of the day and feel safe.
If you are going for work, especial as made you might have problems with the employers as some people are racist and dont know how to treat their employees. There are some rape cases that happend with maids and I ca not deny that but its not the most common.’
As for tourist, I think it would be one of the safest countries you will visit. the crime rate is very low but keep in mind that in summer the temperature is very high.
Kuwait is a really safe country...
this is all bullshit. Kuwait is a really safe country. And everyone knows that they need to be careful around poor areas. There is no terrorism, it only happened once. It didnt even affect foreigners. And yes there are some racist locals, but its not common. This article is so bias, everything that is written here is against Kuwait.
Bs article
I call bullshit about terrorism its written by someone apparently never been in kuwait
Kuwait must be very cool
I will visit Kuwait soon, not far just some days from now
You Lie!
I Will Visit Kuwait, Eventualy.Kuwait Is GREAT!
Thank you
I have really appreciate all I crossed here to the page of Kuwait I like Kuwait really to visit hopefully I will go as soon as possible because I saw them they are safe
Pls am planning moving to Kuwait to work …..am I saved pls?
kuwait is safe this article is a lie
this is exaggeration and a lie. how is 10 years ago terrorist attack make Kuwait high s?? o what do you call London or Paris or new York ??
this is not right
Kuwait is one of the safest countries and you only have to worry about bad drivers.
kuwait is one of the safest country in the world for both gender women and men
you dont have to speak arabic to go there you can speak english
about terrorism that only happened once in kuwait so that doesnt make it high !!!
there is alot of nice places you can visit there
Real Kuwait
Hello, I am Kuwaiti and I will talk about the lies in this report driving it is not good and not as bad as mentioned. As for terrorism, we have not seen any incident except only the one mentioned, which was only in 2015. The weather is very hot and December and January and February are the best but February is the best for tourism. In the end, Kuwait is a beautiful country and the people are very nice and you will see it from your arrival at the airport. (In every country there are bad people and areas that are not safe to choose the right place to stay in Kuwait City or around it near Kuwaitis.)
Can a traveler get a citizen girlfriend in Kuwait
Kuwait is more safe and preferable
Doubt
Is it true that a foreigner can’t leave Kuwait with their Kuwait dinar
I say no to rape
All I can say is #WOW for real
What I as a lady will not take is you my boss rapping me all the time without a single free. It’s better I stay in my mother’s land than to become a slave in another land.
First of all, Kuwait is one of the safest countries in the world – for middle-class/rich people. I have never heard of anyone being robbed/mugged, there was ONE terrorist attack here, and the late Emir (RAA) was crying when he heard about it, it was so unusual. He (in his late 80s) went there without bodyguards to help rescue people. Sooo… yeah.
However, it is the unfortunate truth that, if you are trying to work here as a maid, or other low-paying jobs, you will not be treated properly. There is a lot of discrimination against poor people. If you REALLY REALLY REALLY need to come here for work in a lower department, then (as a woman) wear a hijab (if you don’t already). Men generally have a lot of respect for Muslim women. Many maids do this to avoid improper treatment.
Quest
I really want to visits that county and work there is their any possible mean an of me going am from Africa Nigeria to be presize
Religion and cultre
I realy want to visit kuwait but am scared of their Religious practises becus am a Christian..
This article deserves a much higher rating.
Kuwait is one of the safest countries in the Middle East. I visited Qatar but then visited Kuwait. This time i felt much safer than Qatar. I’m from Ukraine and i used to feel much safer than in Kuwait. This time i’m going to Israel for my travels.
Kuwait is safe
As a Kuwaiti, this whole thing is a lie! Kuwait is very safe, my grandparents have been living there for almost their whole life and they have been perfectly fine, never been robbed, never been attacked, never been anything!
Although there was ONE terrorist attack, doesn’t make it ‘unsafe’ People are very nice here, and the place is amazing!
Is a good place
if possible I want to go and work in Kuwait I’m from Sierra Leone west Africa