Places to see in Kuwait | Kuwait Must-See Sights & Attractions

Stay connected with Airtel’s international roaming plans as you explore the must-see sights and attractions in Kuwait, ensuring smooth communication while discovering the country’s rich culture, history, and stunning landmarks.

If you’re planning a trip to the Middle East, Kuwait should be high on your list of places to visit. This small but captivating country packs a punch when it comes to tourist attractions. From stunning mosques and traditional souqs to modern malls and refreshing green spaces, Kuwait offers something for every type of traveller.

Here’s your insider’s guide to the top places to see in Kuwait, along with essential travel tips to help you make the most of your trip.

1. Grand Mosque of Kuwait

No visit to Kuwait City is complete without seeing the Grand Mosque, the country’s largest and most beautiful mosque. The mosque’s stunning architecture blends traditional Islamic design with modern elements, making it a true sight to behold.

Key Details:

• Location: Heart of Kuwait City

• Guided Tours: Available Sun-Thu, 9-11 am & 4-6 pm

• Tour Duration: Approx. 30 min

• Cost: Free

• Dress Code: Long pants/sleeves required; women provided abayas/headscarves

To fully appreciate the mosque’s beauty and learn about its significance, consider joining one of the free guided tours offered throughout the week. Just remember to dress modestly and remove your shoes before entering this sacred space.

2. Souq Al-Mubarakiya

For a taste of authentic Kuwaiti culture and history, head to Souq Al-Mubarakiya in Kuwait City. This vibrant open-air market is a treasure trove of traditional goods, from colourful Persian carpets and antiques to aromatic spices and local delicacies.

Market Highlights:

• Traditional Kuwaiti costumes

• Handcrafted perfumes & incense

• Fresh dates & nuts

• Affordable souvenirs

• Local eateries serving classic dishes

You can easily spend an entire day wandering through the market’s winding alleys, haggling with friendly vendors, and sampling mouthwatering street food. Don’t miss the chance to try a cup of fragrant Arabic coffee or fresh pomegranate juice.

3. Kuwait Towers

The iconic Kuwait Towers are a symbol of the country’s architectural prowess and a must-see Kuwait tourist destination. The three slender towers rise gracefully along the city’s waterfront, offering panoramic views of the Arabian Gulf.

Tower Facts:

• Height: Main tower 187m, others 147m & 113m

• Main Uses: Water storage, restaurant, observation deck

• Observation Deck: 123m high, open daily 8 am-11 pm

• Restaurant: Revolving at 82m, open for lunch/dinner

• Tickets: KWD 3 for the observation deck, restaurant extra

While the towers primarily serve as water reservoirs, visitors can take a high-speed elevator up to the observation deck or enjoy a meal at the revolving restaurant. The vistas are especially stunning at sunset when the towers are illuminated against a fiery sky.

4. Tareq Rajab Museum

Art and history buffs won’t want to miss the Tareq Rajab Museum, home to one of the world’s most impressive collections of Islamic art. The museum’s vast galleries showcase exquisite ceramics, manuscripts, jewellery, and textiles from across the Islamic world.

Museum Overview:

• Location: Jabriya, 15 min drive from city centre

• Opening Hours: Mon-Sat 9 am-12 pm & 4-7 pm

• Admission: KWD 2 for adults, KWD 1 for students

• Highlights: Mughal miniatures, Ottoman tiles, Quran manuscripts

• Guided Tours: Available upon request

Even if you’re not an art expert, the museum’s well-curated exhibits and informative displays provide a fascinating glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Islam. Don’t miss the exquisite calligraphy scrolls and rare Islamic coins.

5. The Avenues Mall

For a taste of modern Kuwait, head to The Avenues Mall, the country’s largest shopping centre. This sprawling complex features over 800 stores, from high-end designer boutiques to affordable local brands.

Mall Amenities:

• Stores: Fashion, electronics, home goods, etc.

• Dining: 60+ restaurants & cafes

• Entertainment: Cinema, arcade, ice rink

• Services: Banking, salons, tailoring

• Opening Hours: Sat-Wed 10 am-10 pm, Thu-Fri 10 am-11 pm

In addition to shopping, The Avenues offers a wide range of dining and entertainment options. Catch a movie at the multiplex cinema, hit the ice skating rink, or relax at one of the many cafes and restaurants. The mall even has its own indoor canals!

6. Al Shaheed Park

When you need a break from the hustle and bustle of the city, escape to the tranquil oasis of Al Shaheed Park. This beautifully landscaped green space features lush gardens, walking trails, and plenty of shaded spots to relax.

Park Highlights:

• Location: City centre, adjacent to Al Shaheed Mosque

• Size: 200,000 sq meters

• Attractions: Botanical gardens, amphitheatre, museums

• Facilities: Playgrounds, picnic areas, cafes

• Events: Concerts, markets, festivals

The park is a popular spot for picnics, outdoor exercise, and cultural events. Check the park’s website for upcoming festivals, concerts, and exhibitions. Al Shaheed Park is also home to several museums and memorials honouring Kuwait’s history and heroes.

Practical Tips for Visiting Kuwait

To make the most of your trip to Kuwait, keep these practical tips in mind:

Getting There & Around

• Kuwait International Airport is well-connected to major cities worldwide

• Taxis and ride-sharing apps like Uber are widely available

• Renting a car is possible, but traffic can be heavy; consider hiring a driver

Where to Stay

• Accommodation ranges from budget hotels to luxury beach resorts

• Popular areas: Kuwait City centre, Salmiya district, Mahboula coast

• Book in advance during peak season (Nov-Apr)

What to Eat

• Must-tries: Machboos (spiced rice & meat), falafel sandwiches, fresh seafood

• Street food: Souk Al-Mubarakiya, Qout Market, food trucks

• High-end: Dai Forni (Italian), Kei (Japanese), Asha’s (Indian)

Language & Culture

• Arabic is the official language, but English is widely spoken

• Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites

• Weekend falls on Friday and Saturday

• Alcohol is illegal; don’t attempt to bring any into the country

Money Matters

• Currency: Kuwaiti dinar (KWD), the world’s highest-valued currency

• Major credit cards are widely accepted; ATMs are available

• Tipping: 10-15% in restaurants, round up taxi fares

Staying Connected

• Travellers can purchase SIM cards or eSIMs at the airport or from phone providers like Mobily.

• Free Wi-Fi available in many hotels, cafes, and public spaces

When to Visit Kuwait

The best time to visit Kuwait is during the cooler months, from November to April. Temperatures are pleasant, ranging from 15°C to 25°C, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Summer (June to August) is extremely hot, with temperatures often exceeding 45°C. Most tourists avoid this time, although you can find great hotel deals if you don’t mind staying indoors.

Ready to Explore Kuwait? Stay Connected with Airtel

Now that you know all the top tourist places in Kuwait, it’s time to start planning your trip. From Kuwait City sightseeing to cultural immersion, this Middle Eastern gem offers a wealth of experiences for every type of traveller.

To stay connected throughout your journey, consider getting an Airtel prepaid international roaming pack. With affordable data and calling options, you can easily navigate the city, make online reservations, and share your favourite moments with loved ones back home.

Kuwait may be small in size, but it’s big on hospitality, history, and hidden treasures. So pack your bags, charge your phone, and get ready to discover the wonders of this captivating country. Your Arabian adventure awaits!