Kuwait

Safety and security

Emergency phone numbers

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes and providing emergency services.

• Dial 112 for police, ambulance, or fire services
• Dial 151 for the Public Health Ministry Hotline about health-related inquiries, urgent medical advice, vaccination questions, and to register complaints about health services
• Dial 147 for the Child Helpline, run by the Kuwait National Child Protection Program.

Terrorism

Terrorists and their supporters may target U.S. citizens abroad.

Terrorists may target:

• Large public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
• Popular hotels, clubs, and restaurants
• Places of worship
• Schools
• Parks
• Shopping malls and markets
• Public transportation (subways, buses, trains, and commercial flights)
• Local government facilities
• Other places frequented by U.S. citizens and foreigners

Demonstrations

• Public demonstrations are generally prohibited and do not occur in Kuwait. Avoid any demonstrations if you do encounter them.

Crime

There are reported incidents of petty theft, car break-ins, and harassment or sexual assault of women traveling alone.

• Review our information for Women Travelers.

The U.S. embassy recommends that U.S. government personnel exercise increased caution in the Jleeb Al-Shuyoukh area in Kuwait City due to crime.

• Stay aware of your surroundings, keep valuables out of sight and secure.
• Don’t travel alone, if possible.
• Do not follow a predictable route and routine every day.
• Avoid regular digital check-ins on public apps.

Scams

Follow the Department of State guidelines to protect yourself from scams.

If you are a victim of a scam, learn how the FBI can help.

Kuwait-related internet romance and financial scams are common.

• Be careful of anyone asking for money, especially those who start a “romantic” relationship online or claim that local authorities want money.
• Scams often begin through online posts, social media, emails, or letters.
• Scammers pretend to be U.S. citizens in need of help.

Common scams include:

• People claiming to be U.S. military personnel.
• People claiming to be working in the oil industry.
• People claiming to be detained or hospitalized abroad.
• Romance and online dating connections who need money to travel.

If using dating apps or websites in Kuwait:

• Law Enforcement may use dating apps to track or invite gay and lesbian travelers.
• Having same-sex dating apps on your phone may lead to increased scrutiny or accusations of activity.
• Same-sex sexual activity between men is illegal in Kuwait.
• Casual or out-of-wedlock sexual relations (or the appearance of these relationships) are criminalized and may result in arrest and deportation.
• Meet in a popular public place.
• Public displays of affection may upset people nearby.
• Let your friends and family know where you are and consider sharing your location on your phone with them.
• Tell your family or friends details about the person you are meeting and how you met them (on which app).
• Set up and talk using a video call before agreeing to meet in-person. 
• Avoid locations where you can be isolated, like hotel rooms, private apartments, private vehicles, or houses.
• Never leave food or drinks unattended at a bar or restaurant.
• Observe the preparation of your food or drink order when possible.
• Refuse offers of food or drinks from strangers.
• Have a communication plan with friends or family. Send updates to them on an agreed schedule.

Victims of crime

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime. You may report crime by dialing 112 in Kuwait for police or ambulance services. You may also contact the U.S. embassy at +965-2259-1001.

Review our information for Victims of Crime.

The U.S. embassy can:

• Replace a stolen or lost passport.
• Help you find medical care.
• Assist you in how to report a crime to the police.
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent.
• Provide general information about the criminal justice system.
• Provide a list of local attorneys. We do not endorse or recommend any specific attorneys.
• Provide a list of medical care facilities. We do not endorse or recommend any specific providers.
• Provide information on victim’s compensation programs in the U.S.
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of need.
• Help you find accommodation and options to travel home.

Sexual assault and domestic violence

U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault or domestic violence are encouraged to contact the U.S. embassy and local law enforcement (dial 112) for assistance.

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes. You may also contact the U.S. embassy for assistance with local resources, contacting friends or relatives, or assisting with replacement of a passport.

• Review our embassy’s page on Domestic Violence.
• Review our information for Women Travelers.
• The Child Helpline, run by the Kuwait National Child Protection Program, aims to provide children with protection, and offers some family-based and parenting support services. Dial 147.

Technology use abroad

Lasers, eavesdropping devices, and speed radar detectors are illegal. It is illegal to operate or fly drones, especially with aerial photography, and the mere possession of drones may cause legal complications.

Any of your electronic devices may be searched at any time, especially upon entry or exit to the country by Kuwaiti customs.

Mobile devices are vulnerable to compromise, theft, and damage anywhere in the world. Follow these safe practices:

• Keep all software (operating system and apps) updated.
• Use reputable, U.S. based virtual private network (VPN) and encrypted voice over IP (VoIP) applications.
• Do not connect to unknown open Wi-Fi.
• Be cautions using dating apps abroad, as scammers often target U.S. citizens.

Prior to using a GPS app

• make sure you research the route to make sure it is safe.
• The fastest path may not be the safest.
• Listed sites or addresses may be false.

Tourism safety

The tourism industry is regulated:

• Rules and safety inspections are regularly enforced.
• Dangerous areas/activities are identified with signs.
• Trained and certified staff are usually there to help with organized activities.
• In you get injured, you can usually get medical help throughout the country.
• U.S. citizens are encouraged to have medical evacuation insurance.
• Review our information on Travel Insurance.

Local laws and customs

Criminal penalties

• U.S. citizens must follow local laws.
• If you break local laws, even by mistake, you could be deported, arrested, or imprisoned.
• Travelers who accidentally break local laws have been detained. They may also face criminal charges and be convicted of a crime.
• Resisting arrest, photographing or video-documenting the arrest or the law enforcement officials, may lead to additional charges.
• You may be prosecuted in the United States for crimes committed abroad regardless of the local law. Review the information provided by the U.S. Department of Justice about crimes against minors abroad.
• Before you start a business or a profession in Kuwait, seek information from the local authorities about what permits or licenses are required.

Arrest notification

You have far fewer legal protections at the time of arrest than you do in the United States. In Kuwait, you do not immediately have a right to an attorney, the right of silence, and you may be forcibly given incriminating documentation to sign that you cannot read or understand.

• If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. embassy immediately.
• If you can contact family, or a lawyer, we recommend also asking them to notify the U.S. embassy of your arrest.
• U.S.-Kuwaiti dual citizens, or other U.S. dual citizens who enter Kuwait on a non-U.S. passport and who are arrested may face delayed consular notification and prison visits. Please ask for a consular visit or ask a friend or relative to contact the U.S. embassy.

Detention conditions

Medical care and food

Access to medical care while in detention may be difficult or unavailable. If you are arrested, you may lack access to medications until transferred to a long-term prison.

• Long-term prisoners have access to basic medical care, but it is typically not up to U.S. standards. Not all U.S. prescriptions may be permitted for use by Kuwaiti authorities while detained.
• Special diets may not be available. Long-term prisoners may have more options, but it depends on the prison. Even if required for health reasons, the food may not meet quality or special diet standards. 
• Prisoners eat together from a large, shared food tray. This can lead to pushing and competition for food. Families can sometimes purchase extra food for prisoners through a local prison grocery delivery program.

Housing conditions

Prison facilities are generally safe, but some locations reportedly have hygienic issues; but experiences may vary by location.

• Multiple prisoners often share large, overcrowded cells.
• Not all prisoners have access to jobs, activities, or to reading material or television in English.
• Short term detention facilities are often basic. There may not be bathing facilities.
• Prisoners may have to sleep with the lights on.

Access to communication

• Outside reading material may be difficult to bring into the prison due to censorship issues.
• Short-term detention facilities may have no access to phones or internet.
• Long-term detention facilities may permit short calls to a local number, but calls may be short due to the many prisoners wanting to use the same phone.

Access to a lawyer

Prisoners are generally allowed access to legal representation at their own expense but arranging this can be difficult for many detainees.

• The court will appoint an attorney if the prisoner cannot retain one, but the quality of defense may vary.
• U.S. consular officers cannot provide legal advice or representation.

Access to religious services or clergy

Access to Islamic religious services is generally available.

• Access to other religious services or reading materials is sometimes available.

Access to family visits

Family members in Kuwait must check with the prisoner to know which days and times they can visit.

• We recommend that overseas family members work with an attorney to arrange the visit before traveling to Kuwait.
• Review U.S. Embassy in Kuwait page on the Arrest of a U.S. Citizen Overseas.

Alcohol and drugs

Possession or importation of alcohol, narcotic drugs, and marijuana is illegal. Convictions may include heavy fines, long jail sentences, or the death penalty.

• Drug use, including having trace amounts of illegal drugs in your body, may lead to a 5-year prison sentence and a fine of 5,000 Kuwaiti dinars.
• Drug possession may lead to a 5-year prison sentence and a fine of 5,000 Kuwaiti dinars.
• Drug trafficking is punishable by death or life imprisonment and a fine of 500,000 Kuwaiti dinars or more.
• Transporting, holding, or accepting a package containing drugs on behalf of someone else can result in arrest and conviction, even if you don’t know the package contents.

Customs and border facilities

Kuwaiti customs have strict rules regarding the importation of banned items such as pork and alcohol, drugs, some prescription medications, weapons, certain religious items, pornography and anything considered “immoral” under Islamic principles.

• Penalties for the import, manufacture, possession, sale, and consumption of alcohol or illegal drugs or paraphernalia in Kuwait are severe. Convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences, heavy fines, or deportation.
• Authorities may take away materials (shirts, buttons, flags) related to sexual orientation or certain religious iconography. Wearing them may also lead to questioning.
• These regulations may change at any time without notice.

Counterfeit and pirated goods

Counterfeit and pirated goods are common in many destinations.

• They may be illegal according to local laws.  
• Counterfeit and pirated goods may pose significant risks to consumer health and safety. 
• You may be subject to fines and/or have to give up counterfeit and pirated goods if you bring them back to the United States.

Learn more about U.S. restrictions on counterfeit and pirated goods:

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection
  
• U.S. Department of Justice website

Illegal activities

The following actions are illegal and may also lead to prosecution, imprisonment, and immediate deportation:

• Humiliating or insulting any person verbally or through obscene gestures in a public place, including a police officer, public official, or private citizen.
• There are limitations on freedom of speech and political expression in Kuwait, especially on social media. Insulting the Amir is a crime.
• Taking pictures or video clips of government buildings, military installations, and oil-related infrastructure or of people without the subject’s knowledge or consent.
• Wearing or displaying prohibited religious symbols, including for many non-monotheistic religions.
• Having unpaid debts.
• Driving without a Kuwait driver’s license after obtaining a residence permit.
• Possession of firearms, ammunition, or other weapons.
• Gambling.
• Prostitution and pornography.
• Sexual relations outside of marriage.
• Same-sex sexual activity between men is illegal in Kuwait.
• During Ramadan, eating or drinking in public or in any location where someone could see you, such as inside your vehicle.

Children born out-of-wedlock

Engaging in sexual relations outside of marriage is a criminal offense.

• Parents may not be able to obtain a Kuwait birth certificate or residence permit for a child born out of wedlock.
• They may be subject to prosecution, deportation, or fines for failure to properly document the birth of the child.

Dual citizenship

Kuwait does not recognize dual nationality for Kuwaiti citizens.

• Kuwaiti citizens must enter and leave on Kuwaiti travel documents.
• Kuwaiti citizens must obtain official permission from the government before obtaining a second nationality.
• At times, Kuwaiti authorities have taken the passports of U.S. citizens applying for Kuwaiti citizenship. This does not mean that you lost U.S. citizenship. If this happens to you, or someone you know, report the incident to the U.S. embassy.
• Kuwaiti authorities have revoked Kuwaiti citizenship when they learn of a second nationality.
• Before traveling to Kuwait, consult an attorney if you are an adult that has U.S. and Kuwaiti citizenship.
• If you are pressured to renounce your U.S. citizenship by Kuwaiti officials, please review our embassy page. Consider consulting with an attorney before making a decision.

Faith-based travelers

Faith-based travel includes pilgrimages, service projects, and mission work.

• Proselytizing –trying to change the religion of other people—and sharing religious literature is not allowed. It may result in a prison sentence.
• Apostasy or conversion from Islam can have legal consequences in Kuwait
• It has been reported that some foreign national Muslims in Kuwait have “baited” non-Muslims into a religious discussion or debate in a public area. They then called the police to file a complaint.

Prepare for your travel using these resources:

• Faith-Based Travel
• Volunteering Abroad
• International Religious Freedom Report
• Human Rights Report

Gay and lesbian travelers

Same-sex sexual activity between men is illegal in Kuwait.

• The law punishes consensual sex between men of full age (21 and older) with imprisonment of up of to 7 years.
• Men of full age who have consensual sex with men under age 21 may be imprisoned up to 10 years.
• Law enforcement may use dating apps to track or initiate sting operations, especially those with gay and lesbian orientation.
• No Kuwaiti laws specifically criminalize same-sex sexual activity between women, but engaging in same-sex behavior could result in deportation or being charged under broader morality or indecency laws.
• Some travelers have reported difficulties entering Kuwait on a passport bearing a name and photo that do not correspond to their sex at birth. This includes harassment, detention, abuse, and assault by security forces.
• You may experience societal discrimination and harassment based on sexual orientation.
• Review our information for Gay and Lesbian Travelers.

Travelers with accessibility needs

Accessibility and accommodations in Kuwait are different from those in the United States.

• The law in Kuwait prohibits discrimination against persons with permanent physical, sensory, intellectual, and mental disabilities in employment, education, air travel and other transportation, access to health care, or the provision of other government services.
• Kuwait has made progress toward requiring access to buildings for people with disabilities. But access is more likely in new and renovated buildings.
• Public transportation is generally inaccessible or difficult for customers with disabilities.
• Accessible parking spaces are marked, but often unavailable.
• Most medical facilities and public buildings have wheelchair ramps and elevators, but the widths and the slope may vary.
• Access to sign language interpretation is limited. U.S. citizens needing American Sign Language interpretation should plan ahead. Have contact information for companies offering distance interpretation services through mobile phone apps, video phones, and other modalities.
• Kuwait has limited infrastructure to care for those with mental disabilities or mental health issues.
• Public awareness of mental health issues is still limited. Travelers with mental health conditions risk being arrested and detained for misunderstood behavior, despite clear medical evidence given to authorities.
• Review our information on Accessibility Needs.

Students

• Review our Studying Abroad travel tips.

Women residents and travelers

• Many public places have dress codes for women requiring shoulders and knees to be covered.
• Women, especially those traveling alone, should exercise caution on public transit, when traveling via taxi, and in conservative or isolated areas.
• Women should exercise increased caution when riding public buses due to reports of sexual harassment.
• Review our information for Women Travelers, Marriage, Female genital mutilation and cutting (FGM/C), and Victims of Crime.

Human rights

Freedom of speech, religion, and the rights to assemble and petition the government are restricted in Kuwait.

• Journalists and media producers may face censorship, arrest, and prosecution for publishing content disallowed or disfavored by the government.
• Review our page on Journalism abroad.
• Review the Department of State’s Human Rights Report for Kuwait prior to traveling.

Freedom of speech

There are very few areas of protected speech in Kuwait. Your rights are very limited.

• Anything you have written or said in the past, even if performed in another country, can lead to legal complications when visiting Kuwait. This is true even if the postings do not directly mention Kuwait, but are critical of politics, race, or religion in general.
• The government of Kuwait monitors social media activity in Kuwait, including posts on mobile devices. Postings viewed as defamatory or critical of the Kuwaiti Government or Islam can lead to criminal prosecution, including charges of terrorism.
• Taking and posting photos of government or military installations, vehicles, or officers or even private individuals can lead to criminal prosecution.
• Being a journalist does not give you protection to write articles that are considered defamatory.
• Profanity and obscene hand-gestures can be prosecuted harshly for the disturbance of peace and lead to imprisonment.
• Insulting public officers or private citizens can lead to imprisonment or civic defamation lawsuits.

Importing animals and pets to Kuwait

To bring a pet to Kuwait, you must:

• Obtain an import permit from the Public Authority for Agriculture Affairs and Fish Resources (PAAAFR).
• Have a valid rabies vaccination.
• Meet breed restrictions — with microchipping and documentation requirements that vary by pet type.
• These requirements may also change without notice. Always confirm with local authorities and airlines about pet requirements and restrictions.
• If you plan to take your pet back to the United States after being in Kuwait, review CDC regulations. Kuwait is on the U.S. list of “high-risk countries for dog rabies.” 
• Review our information on traveling with pets. 

Health

Health resources

• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Kuwait Traveler information provides destination-specific information on prevalent diseases and vaccination recommendation.
• CDC Medical Tourism information
• World Health Organization
• Medicine and Health
• Travel Insurance

Emergency numbers

• Dial 112 for ambulance, fire, and emergency services.

Ambulance services

• Ambulance services are widely available in urban areas.
• They may not be staffed with trained paramedics.
• Injured or very ill travelers might prefer to take a taxi or their own car to the nearest major hospital, especially in rural areas. This option can be faster than waiting for an ambulance.

Medical payments and insurance

Make sure you know if your health insurance plan covers any medical expenses coverage abroad.  Most U.S. plans do not.

• The U.S. government does not pay medical bills.
• U.S. Medicare and Medicaid do not cover expenses or bills abroad.
• Most hospitals and doctors abroad do not accept U.S. health insurance.
• Medical care is not free in Kuwait. If you require medical attention, you will incur expenses, even if you are treated in a public healthcare facility.
• Lack of payment may result in an exit ban and prevent you from leaving Kuwait or bar future travel to Kuwait.
• You must pay in advance for most emergency medical services.
• Most care providers in Kuwait will accept cash or credit card payments.
• Make sure you know if your health insurance plan provides coverage abroad or reimbursement of payments. The CDC provides more information on types of insurance.
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.
• If you purchase supplemental insurance, you are responsible for seeking reimbursement from the insurance provider. Follow their instructions for filing claims.
• U.S. veterans should understand limits of overseas medical coverage.

Vaccinations

Stay up to date with the vaccines recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

• CDC Travelers’ Health
• World Health Organization Travel Advice

Health care facilities

• Health facilities are available in all major cities in Kuwait. It may be harder to find adequate health care in rural or remote areas.
• The U.S. embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals. We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.
• Government and private hospitals and clinics have health care that is near western standards.
• Hospitals and doctors often require payment upfront prior to service or admission.
• Visitors have fewer options and more difficulties than residents.
• For residents, government facilities provide services at reasonable costs. Public facilities generally offer more specialty-care services than private facilities. Specialty care requires a referral from the primary care in your catchment neighborhood.
• Non-residents are generally not permitted to use the government facilities, except in a life-and-death emergency or with a referral from a private facility.
• Non-residents are allowed to use any private clinic or hospital. The private hospitals are often newer, cleaner, and less crowded. Private facilities may have long waiting times and be difficult to access for non-residents but generally provide the same level of service as the public hospitals.
• Medical visas (in advance) are required for non-residents coming for medical treatment at public hospitals. Private hospitals will generally admit both residents and non-residents with these special visas.
• U.S. citizens are expected to bring their civil ID or passport to the medical facility and should be prepared to pay fees in advance.
• Most prescription and over-the-counter medicines are readily available at pharmacies, but controlled medications are more difficult to obtain.
• Your legal options in case of malpractice may be limited in Kuwait.

Mental health, counseling and psychiatric care

Psychological and psychiatric services are limited in Kuwait and the region.

• In-patient mental health hospital-based care is only available at government institutions.
• Out-patient psychological and psycho-therapeutical treatment is available through private facilities.
• Psychiatric drug treatments are available through both public and private providers.
• Public awareness of mental health issues is still limited.
• Travelers with mental health conditions risk being arrested and detained for misunderstood behavior, despite clear medical evidence given to authorities.

Prescription medications

Some prescription drugs which are legal in the United States are not legal in Kuwait. Bringing them in your luggage could result in denial of entry or criminal penalties.

• To ensure your medications are legal in Kuwait, check your medications with:
  • the Embassy of Kuwait in Washington, DC (review the linked table at bottom of their webpage),
  • the Consulate General of Kuwait in Los Angeles,
  • the Consulate General of Kuwait in New York City, or
  • the Kuwait General Administration for Customs.
    • Email: [email protected] 
    • Phone: +965-24955000
    • Fax: +965-24838056.
• Kuwait has its own rules about carrying controlled substances. Do not bring marijuana or CBD products, even if prescribed by a medical provider.
• Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription.
• Bring enough medicine for your stay in your carry-on luggage.
• Consult your regular doctors before traveling if your medications are not allowed in Kuwait.
• U.S. prescriptions cannot be used to renew or refill a prescription at a Kuwait pharmacy. You need to visit a local physician and get a local prescription.
• Pharmaceutical pricing is controlled by the Kuwait government.
• Private pharmacies are common and located in most residential and retail areas of Kuwait.
• Most hospitals and clinics will have linked pharmacies, and 24-hour pharmacy services are generally available.
• U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have rules for bringing medication back into the United States. If you buy medications abroad, the medications must meet CBP’s and the FDA’s requirements to bring them back legally. The medications must also be for personal use and approved for use in the United States.

For more information:

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• Food and Drug Administration

Water quality and food safety

• Tap water is generally safe to drink and use in cooking.
• Tap water has been desalinated from ocean water, so it still may contain higher salinity than regular drinking water.
• Bottled water and beverages are generally safe. Use major brands and ensure the seal is intact.
• Many restaurants and hotels serve bottled water unless tap water is specifically requested.
• Eating uncooked vegetables and fruits that have not been properly cleaned can make you sick.

Air quality

Air quality is a significant problem in Kuwait. Sand, dust storms and pollutants are common.

• Check NASA’s Air Quality Forecast. It uses Artificial Intelligence (AI), historical data, and global pollution models to create a 3-day forecast of expected air quality for Kuwait.
• For information about common air pollutants, check the CDC’s Air Quality page.
• For information about the U.S. Air Quality Index and health guidance, check out the EPA’s AirNow.
• If you suffer from dust allergies or have respiratory issues, you may wish to consult your physician prior to planning any travel to Kuwait.
• For general health information, visit the Medicine and Health page.

Transportation

Helpful resources

• Kuwait Meteorological Department (KMD) — weather reporting
• Kuwait Fire Force and Civil Defense — Emergency response and public safety.
• Ministry of Health — Public health advisories.
• Ministry of Interior — Traffic and safety updates.

Road conditions and safety

Driving in Kuwait is extremely hazardous due to speeding, distracted driving, road rage, lax enforcement of traffic regulations, roadway conditions, and a high volume of traffic.

• Exercise increased caution when driving at night. Some drivers do not use headlights.
• Road lanes are not always clearly marked and may merge without advance warning.
• Speed bumps are commonplace and not always clearly marked.
• Drivers should avoid driving during or after heavy rainstorms or through standing water. Stay alert for flooded areas and monitor local media for road closures and weather updates.
• Have a jack and spare tire to fix a flat tire.
• Tow trucks are available but may require advance payment in cash.

Traffic laws

You are required to always have your driver’s license with you when operating a vehicle. There are no exceptions.

• You must carry both your valid U.S. driver’s license and an International Driving Permit. Residents are required to obtain a local driver’s license before operating a motor vehicle.
• Your driver’s license may be revoked without notice if your job title changes.
• Driving while intoxicated can result in fines, imprisonment, deportation, or revocation of your Kuwait driving license.
• It is against the law to use a cell phone while driving.
• Use of seat belts is mandatory.
• Traffic cameras are widely used to enforce stop light, cellphone use, and speeding violations.
• Radar and speed detectors are illegal in Kuwait.
• If you do not pay traffic and parking fines, authorities may take your vehicle, or you may get an exit ban. This means you may not be able to leave Kuwait until all fines and penalties are paid.
• You can pay traffic fines online through the Ministry of Interior’s online portal. This may require a local bank or KNET account.

In case of a car accident

If you are involved in an accident, whether you are at fault, it can lead to arrest and detention.

• Dial 112 in case of emergency or traffic accident.
• Immediately notify the police about an accident and remain at the scene until the police arrive.
• At-fault accidents can result in arrests, demands for financial restitution, or exit bans that stop you from leaving Kuwait.
• If you are injured in an accident that may later lead to a legal claim against you or from you, then you must seek medical attention at a public hospital. At the public hospital, an investigator will document your injuries. Failure to do this will limit your ability to seek legal remedy for any injuries you have suffered.
• Review our information on Local Laws and arrests. 

Taxis and ride-shares

• Use only marked and licensed taxis.
• Taxis are available at major hotels and by telephone.
• Ride-share apps are widely used in Kuwait.
• Do not sit in the front seat of taxis, next to the driver.
• Do not allow the driver to pick up unknown passengers.
• Do not enter a taxi with other passengers already in it.
• Be aware of the route driven by the taxi driver and do not allow the driver to take you to an unfamiliar area.
• As with driving personal vehicles, remember to vary routes and times when utilizing taxis. Do not follow the same schedule all the time.

Public and commercial transportation

• Review our information on Driving and Transportation Safety Abroad.

Aviation safety oversight

The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has found that Kuwait meets international standards for aviation safety oversight. FAA's website includes more information on its assessment program.

• Due to risks to civil aviation operating in the Persian Gulf region, including Kuwait, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued an ongoing advisory Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM) in 2020.
• For more information U.S. citizens should consult the NOTAM for Persian Gulf and Gulf of Oman.

Maritime travel

Mariners and passengers planning travel to Kuwait should check the following:

• U.S. Department of Transportation Maritime Advisories
• MARAD Active Maritime Alerts
• Maritime Safety Office Navigational Warnings
• U.S. Coast Guard Maritime Commons

Weather and natural disasters

Weather conditions

Kuwait has a desert climate characterized by extremely hot summers, mild winters, and minimal rainfall. The country experiences significant seasonal and day and night temperature changes. There are some severe weather events including dust storms, extreme heat, and flash flooding.

Extreme heatwaves

Occur mostly May to September, peaking in July and August.

• Temperatures frequently exceed 45°C (113°F), with occasional spikes above 50°C (122°F).
• Prolonged exposure to heat can cause heatstroke, dehydration, and death.
• Heatwaves may cause power outages due to increased air conditioning use.
• The Kuwait Meteorological Department (KMD) issues heat advisories and public health warnings. The Ministry of Health provides guidance on heat safety.

Sandstorms and dust storms

Occur mostly from March to May but can occur year-round.

• Strong northwesterly winds (shamal) can lift sand and dust, reducing visibility, disrupting transportation, and affecting respiratory health.
• Review our information on Air Quality.
• KMD provides real-time weather updates and warnings. The Ministry of Interior may issue travel advisories during severe storms.

Flash flooding

Occur mostly from November to April, with the highest risk in November and December.

• Rainfall is rare, but floods occur when heavy rain fills dry riverbeds, or “wadi,” and city drainage systems.
• Flash floods can occur without warning and affect lower-lying areas, even when it is not raining in your location.
• The Kuwait Fire Force and Civil Defense respond to flood emergencies. The Ministry of Public Works manages drainage and infrastructure.

U.S. citizens living abroad

Living abroad resources

If you live outside the United States for a long time, you or your family may experience various life events, wish to exercise U.S. citizenship rights, or need to meet U.S. legal obligations while abroad.

• Learn how to prepare for voting in U.S. elections, the birth of a child, or getting married.
• Ensure you have a plan for healthcare and medical insurance abroad.
• Even abroad, you still have certain obligations such as paying your U.S. taxes or registering for military selective service.
• Understand civil documents in Kuwait.
• Review information on federal benefits, such as Social Security and Veterans Affairs benefits.

Embassies and consulates