Ideally located on the north-western tip of the Arabian Gulf, Kuwait enjoys a distinctive position, enriching the country with geo-strategic importance. Although an oil rich country, Kuwait has other features to proudly cater for its touristic aspirations, including beautiful islands that provide a hub for immigrant birds and wildlife, beautiful beaches and archaeological sites from the Greek era, located in Failaka Island.
Kuwait City is the capital, and represents the centre of a wider urban area, predominantly located along the coastal line of Kuwait. Kuwait City hosts numerous modern high rise buildings and the whole country is privileged with an extensive road network, including bridges, flyovers and tunnels for traffic convenience.
Landmarks
Kuwait’s famous landmarks include: Kuwait Towers, Liberation Tower (world’s fourth tallest stand-alone building), The Grand Mosque, the National Assembly Building, the Entertainment City, as well as numerous iconic shopping malls and areas. Kuwait has many public and private beaches and resorts featuring soft white sand, making up the well-developed Seafront that extends along the coastal line.
Traditional Open Air Souks
Traditional Markets still flourish among the modern supermarkets and malls of Kuwait. The souk area in central Kuwait City, famously known as Al Mubarakiya, is in fact the remains of about twenty different interconnecting souks. Each souk is made up of shops that specializes in particular items, such as clothing hardware, spices and gold.
Banking
Kuwait is home to numerous local and international banks. Most large local and international banks operate Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) throughout the country. ATMs are conveniently located in shopping malls and supermarkets. Most machines (with the exception of those run by the smaller, local banks) recognize VISA, Switch, Delta, Electron, Link and other international cards. Some banks also offer drive-through ATM facilities at larger branches.
Transportation
Taxis are one of the most distinct transportation means in Kuwait. Taxi-drivers hired can drive you to any place you want inside Kuwait. They are skilled and provided with full knowledge of Kuwait maps and places in addition Taxis are very well maintained and clean. Kuwait’s International airport operates a taxi and limousine service. Car rental companies are also available providing vehicles on daily or monthly rentals.
Language
The official and native language is Arabic. In the oil sector, however the lingua franca is English. It is considered the second language of business and many educated Kuwaitis are fluent English speakers. It is also widely spoken in stores, restaurants and the work place.