When it comes to planning a trip to the Middle East, safety is often a top concern for travelers. And, planning a trip to Kuwait is no different.
The first questions on every travelers mind tends to be: Is Kuwait safe for tourists? Is Kuwait dangerous? How careful do you need to be in Kuwait?
Located in a region often highlighted for unrest in the news, Kuwait stands out for its safety and hospitality. In this blog post, let’s explore why Kuwait is considered a safe destination, and what you can expect when visiting this fascinating country.
I’ve recently returned from a trip to Kuwait, where I traveled around as a solo female American tourist, and I will answer all of this and more!
5 Kuwait Essentials
✅ A breathable and lightweight scarf
✅ A wide brim hat for sun protection
✅ A loose kimono to cover up.
✅ A refillable water bottle to stay hydrated
✅ This Kuwait Day Tour (I personally took this tour and highly recommend.)
How Safe is it to Visit Kuwait?
Kuwait is exceptionally safe for tourists. The US State Department rates Kuwait as a Level 1 destination for travel, meaning it is among the safest countries in the Gulf region. This is a notable distinction, as many neighboring countries have higher risk levels.
So what does this mean? Tourists can explore all of the exciting cultural things to do in Kuwait worry free.
But is Kuwait Safe for American Tourists?
The United States and Kuwait have a cooperative and respectful relationship that goes back for over 30 years. U.S. military aid during the Iraq-Kuwait war is distinctly remembered, and the people of Kuwait are incredibly welcoming to American tourists.
Where Does Kuwait Rank on the Global Peace Index?
Kuwait ranks 39th out of 163 countries in the 2022 Global Peace Index, with a score of 1739. This places it as the second safest country in the Middle East. While there was a slight decline in its ranking compared to 2021, Kuwait remains a beacon of safety in the region.
Crime in Kuwait
So Kuwait is relatively safe overall, but lets chat about specific crimes against tourists and how often they occur.
Pro Tip: Check out my article on the best travel safety items to stock up on before your trip! While you don’t need all of them for Kuwait, having a few on hand is great for peace of mind.
- Petty Theft: Like any other major city, petty theft can occur, but it is relatively rare here. Always keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded markets, but in my experience, this is not a common occurrence.
- Physical and Verbal Harassment: I encountered absolutely no harassment of any kind. However, it is not impossible. Avoid isolated areas at night and be aware of your surroundings.
- Violent Crime: Violent crime against tourists is extremely rare in Kuwait. The overall crime rate is low, making it one of the safer destinations in the region.
- Terrorism Risk: Since 2005, there has been only one incidence of terrorism in Kuwait. Needless to say, it is exceedingly rare!
- Civil Unrest: Protests in Kuwait do happen, but they are not a frequent occurrence. Avoid demonstrations and group protests.
How Safe is Kuwait City at Night?
Kuwait City is generally safe, but of course travelers should exercise extra caution when venturing out at night. Avoid poorly lit streets and isolated parks after dark, especially if you are alone.
Use taxis and Careem for transportation after dark, and always stay mindful of your surroundings. Keep personal belongings in sight, stay alert, and avoid strangers who might seem suspicious.
Is It Safe to Travel to Kuwait City as a Solo Female?
I personally traveled to Kuwait as a solo female and spent the entire time alone. I felt safe throughout my trip. I stayed in Kuwait City, walked around alone, and even traveled with locals I met on-site.
My experience was overwhelmingly positive, and I never felt unsafe at any point during my stay!
Be cautious in unfamiliar neighborhoods at night, avoid walking alone in isolated areas, and refrain from interacting with suspicious strangers.
Respecting the local customs, such as dressing modestly, can prevent unwanted attention. Here is exactly what I packed for Kuwait, and no one paid me any notice.
Pro Tip: Check out my article on solo female travel in Kuwait if it applies to you!
Driving in Kuwait
Driving in Kuwait can be chaotic, so for most travelers it will be best to hire a driver or use reputable taxi services. If you choose to rent a car, make sure you check what your insurance covers and understand the local driving laws.
Personally, I used a combination of taxis and Careem (a rideshare service like Uber, and one of my favorite travel apps!) as well as taking this Kuwait tour to get my bearings.
Local Laws and Etiquette
Kuwait is a Muslim country, and while it is more relaxed than some of its neighbors, it’s essential to respect local customs and laws. Dress modestly, avoid public displays of affection, and remember that alcohol products are prohibited.
Final Thoughts on Safety in Kuwait
So is it safe to travel in Kuwait? Hands down yes. Tourists, and even Americans in Kuwait, need not be worried about their safety before arriving.
With a low crime rate, a welcoming attitude towards Americans, and so many interesting things to see around Kuwait, this country is a hidden gem worth exploring.
Kuwait may not be the most common destination for American tourists, but it is undeniably one of the safest in the Gulf region. Have a great trip and let me know how it goes!
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