Kuwait is a small, oil-rich nation at the head of the Persian Gulf, and its capital, Kuwait City, is a sleek modern skyline rising along a sweeping Gulf waterfront. Famed for its landmark water towers, lively traditional souqs and some of the largest shopping malls in the region, it blends Bedouin heritage with serious wealth — and offers among the most generous, tax-free teaching packages anywhere in the Middle East.
Kuwait has a hot desert climate, with mild, pleasant winters and famously fierce summers among the hottest on Earth. It is home to a very large expat community — foreigners make up most of the population — with English widely spoken in business and the country's many international schools alongside Arabic. Tax-free salaries, a low cost of living and a safe, family-friendly environment make it a popular, lucrative choice for teachers, even if the social scene is quieter than in some Gulf neighbours.
Location Info
- Among the most generous tax-free salary packages in the Gulf
- Very safe, with low crime and warm, traditional Kuwaiti hospitality
- A car-based city with extremely cheap fuel and inexpensive ride-hailing
Top Experiences
Kuwait Towers
The country's most iconic landmark — three slender towers topped by blue-green spheres on the Gulf shore. Ride up the viewing sphere for sweeping views over the city, the sea and the corniche.
Souq Mubarakiya
Step back in time in Kuwait City's oldest market, a buzzing warren of spice, gold, textile and food stalls where traders have gathered for over two centuries — best in the cool of the evening.
The Grand Mosque
Marvel at Kuwait's largest mosque, a masterpiece of Islamic architecture with a vast golden dome and intricate calligraphy; respectful free tours welcome non-Muslim visitors.
The Avenues & Malls
Escape the heat in The Avenues, one of the largest malls in the Middle East — a city under one roof of designer stores, themed streets, restaurants and entertainment.
The Scientific Center
Home to one of the region's largest aquariums, an IMAX cinema and a traditional dhow harbour — a family favourite on the seafront at Salmiya.
Failaka Island & the Gulf
Take a ferry to the historic island of Failaka, with its ancient Greek ruins and quiet beaches, or head out on the Gulf for fishing, diving and island-hopping day trips.
Getting Around
Kuwait is a car-dependent city with famously cheap petrol, so most expats drive. Ride-hailing apps (Uber and Careem) and taxis are inexpensive and the easiest way around for newcomers, while a public bus network covers the main routes for a few fils. The city is flat and modern, though summer heat means short walks are best left to the cooler months.
When to Go
November to March is by far the best time, with warm, sunny days and pleasant evenings perfect for the corniche and souqs. Summers (June to September) are extreme, regularly topping 45°C and occasionally pushing 50°C, so life moves firmly indoors to the malls and air-conditioning.
Good to Know
- The Kuwaiti dinar (KD) is the world's highest-valued currency, and salaries are tax-free.
- Arabic is the official language, but English is widely spoken in business and international schools.
- The weekend is Friday and Saturday, and the country runs on GMT+3.
- Kuwait is a dry country — alcohol is strictly prohibited, but the dining and café scene thrives.
- Dress modestly in public, with shoulders and knees covered, especially at religious sites.
- Kuwait is very safe, with low crime and traditional, generous hospitality.
