Kuwait is a small country located in the Middle East, bordered by Saudi Arabia to the south and Iraq to the north. Its capital and largest city is Kuwait City. Kuwait is known for its vast oil reserves and for being one of the wealthiest countries in the world per capita. It has a population of around 4.5 million people, with a majority of them being expatriates from other countries. Kuwait is a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary system of government. The official language is Arabic, and Islam is the predominant religion. The country has a rich culture and history, with influences from Bedouin, Persian, and Arab traditions.

ABOUT

Kuwait, officially known as the State of Kuwait, is a country located in Western Asia. It is situated at the northern edge of Eastern Arabia, at the tip of the Persian Gulf, and shares borders with Iraq to the north and Saudi Arabia to the south. It also shares maritime borders with Iran and has a coastal length of approximately 500 km.

The majority of Kuwait’s population resides in the urban agglomeration of the capital city, Kuwait City. As of 2022, the country has a population of 4.45 million people, with 1.45 million being Kuwaiti citizens and the remaining 3.00 million being foreign nationals from over 100 countries.

Kuwait has a rich history, with most of present-day Kuwait having been part of ancient Mesopotamia. Pre-oil Kuwait was a strategic trade port between Mesopotamia, Persia, and India. Oil reserves were discovered in commercial quantities in 1938, and from 1946 to 1982, the country underwent large-scale modernization, largely based on income from oil production. In the 1980s, Kuwait experienced a period of geopolitical instability and an economic crisis following the stock market crash. In 1990, after oil production disputes with neighbouring Iraq, Kuwait was invaded and later annexed into one of Iraq’s governorates by Iraq under Saddam Hussein. The Iraqi occupation of Kuwait came to an end in 1991, after military intervention by a coalition led by the United States and various other countries.

Kuwait is an emirate, with the emir serving as the head of state and the Al Sabah family dominating the country’s political system. The official state religion of Kuwait is Islam, and it is a developing country with a high-income economy, backed by the world’s sixth-largest oil reserves. The Kuwaiti dinar is the highest valued currency in the world. Kuwaiti popular culture, including theatre, radio, music, and television soap operas, is regionally influential and exported to neighboring GCC states.

In 2009, Kuwait had the highest Human Development Index in the Arab world. Kuwait is a founding member of the GCC and is also a member of the UN, AL, OPEC, and the OIC. In July 2022, the country named the emir’s son as the new prime minister to replace the caretaker premier Sheikh Sabah al-Khalid, who faced a combative parliament as head of the cabinet in a feud hindering fiscal reform.

NAME AND ETYMOLOGY

Kuwait’s name is derived from the Arabic word “Kut,” which means “fortress built near water.” It refers to the fortified settlement that was established at the location of present-day Kuwait City in the early 18th century.

The country has been known by various names throughout history, including “Qurain” and “Qurainat” in reference to a local Bedouin tribe, and “Kathem” in reference to a historic sea fort. However, the name “Kuwait” has been the most widely used and recognized.

The etymology of the name “Kuwait” is attributed to several theories. One theory suggests that the name comes from the Akkadian word “bit-qupti,” which means “the land of the summer.” Another theory suggests that the name comes from the Arabic word “kaout,” which means “fortress” or “castle,” and “wata,” which means “inner bay” or “inland sea.”

Regardless of its origin, the name “Kuwait” has become synonymous with the country and its people, and is recognized around the world as a unique and distinct cultural and political entity in the Middle East.

HISTORY

Kuwait’s history dates back to ancient times, with the region being a strategic trade port between Mesopotamia, Persia, and India. The region was under the influence of various empires throughout history, including the Sumerians, Akkadians, Babylonians, Assyrians, Persians, Greeks, and Romans.

During the 18th century, Kuwait became a hub for trade between the Arabian Peninsula and India, and the ruling Al Sabah family established a stable government. In 1899, Kuwait became a British protectorate, and in 1961, it gained independence as the State of Kuwait.

Oil was discovered in Kuwait in commercial quantities in 1938, and from 1946 to 1982, the country underwent large-scale modernization, largely based on income from oil production. However, in the 1980s, Kuwait experienced a period of geopolitical instability and an economic crisis following the stock market crash. In 1990, Kuwait was invaded and later annexed by Iraq under Saddam Hussein, leading to the Gulf War and the liberation of Kuwait by a military coalition led by the United States and various other countries.

In recent years, Kuwait has focused on economic diversification and development, with a focus on sectors such as finance, healthcare, and tourism. The country is a member of the United Nations, the Arab League, OPEC, and the Gulf Cooperation Council.

GOVERNMENT AND POLITICS

Kuwait is a constitutional emirate with a hereditary monarch as the head of state. The Emir, who is a member of the Al-Sabah family, has executive powers and appoints the Prime Minister and cabinet ministers. The Prime Minister is responsible for running the day-to-day affairs of the government, while the National Assembly, a unicameral legislature, has legislative powers. The National Assembly consists of 50 members, all of whom are elected for four-year terms. Kuwait has a multi-party system, but political parties are not officially recognized. The country is known for its vibrant political culture and lively public debates.

In recent years, Kuwait has faced political turmoil and a series of disputes between the government and the National Assembly. The National Assembly has the power to question government ministers and has used this power to hold several no-confidence votes against ministers in recent years. There have also been disagreements over the electoral system, with the government proposing changes that some opposition groups argue would limit their representation in the National Assembly.

Kuwait’s legal system is based on civil law and Islamic law, and the judiciary is independent of the executive and legislative branches of government. The country has a relatively free press and active civil society, although criticism of the ruling family is prohibited by law.

Kuwait is a member of the United Nations, the Arab League, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, and the Gulf Cooperation Council. The country is also an important ally of the United States and hosts a large US military presence.

ECONOMY

Kuwait has a highly developed and diversified economy, with oil and gas reserves being the mainstay of the country’s economy. The country is a member of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) and has the world’s sixth-largest oil reserves. The petroleum industry accounts for around 90% of the country’s export revenues and over 50% of its GDP. In recent years, Kuwait has made efforts to diversify its economy by investing in other industries such as finance, healthcare, and tourism.

The Kuwaiti government has implemented several economic reforms to encourage foreign investment and improve the business climate in the country. The government has also established various free trade zones and special economic zones to attract foreign companies. The Kuwaiti dinar is one of the highest-valued currencies in the world, and the country has a high-income economy.

Kuwait’s financial sector is highly developed, with a well-established banking system and a large number of international banks operating in the country. The Kuwait Stock Exchange is one of the largest stock exchanges in the Middle East and North Africa region.

Despite its strong economy, Kuwait faces several economic challenges, including a high unemployment rate among its citizens and a heavy dependence on oil revenues. The government has implemented several measures to address these issues, including a national development plan that aims to diversify the economy and create more job opportunities for Kuwaiti citizens.

Overall, Kuwait’s economy is considered to be one of the most stable and prosperous in the Middle East, with a strong focus on economic development and diversification.

GEOGRAPHY

Kuwait is a small country located in Western Asia, on the northern edge of Eastern Arabia. It covers a total land area of approximately 17,820 square kilometers (6,880 square miles) and has a coastline stretching approximately 500 kilometers (311 miles) along the Persian Gulf. Kuwait shares land borders with only two countries, Iraq to the north and Saudi Arabia to the south.

Kuwait is generally a flat country, with the highest point being Mount Al-Shamlan which is only 306 meters (1,004 feet) above sea level. The country’s terrain is mainly composed of sandy deserts and coastal areas. Kuwait also has several small islands, the largest of which is Bubiyan Island, located at the northernmost point of the country.

The climate of Kuwait is arid, with very hot summers and mild winters. Temperatures can reach up to 50 °C (122 °F) during the summer months, while winter temperatures average around 13 °C (55 °F). Precipitation is scarce, with an annual average of less than 125 mm (5 inches) of rain.

TRANSPORT

Kuwait has a well-developed transportation infrastructure, with a modern road network and an international airport.

Road transport is the main mode of transportation in Kuwait, with a total road network of around 6,524 kilometers (4,052 miles), including 4,887 kilometers (3,034 miles) of paved roads. The roads are well-maintained and traffic moves smoothly throughout the country. Taxis are also widely available, and ride-hailing services like Uber and Careem operate in the country.

Kuwait International Airport is the country’s main airport, located about 15 kilometers (9.3 miles) south of the capital city, Kuwait City. The airport is served by many international airlines, including Kuwait Airways, Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Etihad Airways, among others. The airport has two passenger terminals, with Terminal 1 serving mainly international flights and Terminal 2 serving regional flights.

Kuwait also has a well-developed public transport system, with buses and a metro system currently under construction. The bus network is operated by the Kuwait Public Transportation Company and serves most areas of the country. The metro system, known as the Kuwait Metro, is being built in three phases and will have a total length of around 160 kilometers (99 miles) when completed. The first phase of the metro, which includes three lines, is expected to be completed by 2025.

Kuwait also has a busy seaport, the Port of Shuwaikh, located in the capital city, Kuwait City. The port handles most of the country’s imports and exports and is one of the largest ports in the Persian Gulf.

INDUSTRY SECTORS

Kuwait’s economy is dominated by the oil industry, which accounts for over 90% of the country’s export earnings and about 75% of its GDP. The government has made efforts to diversify the economy in recent years, with a focus on developing the non-oil sectors, such as finance, real estate, and tourism.

Kuwait is known for its banking sector, which is one of the largest and most developed in the region. The country has a number of local and international banks, including the National Bank of Kuwait, the largest bank in the country. Other notable industries in Kuwait include construction, shipping, and petrochemicals.

The government has also launched several initiatives to encourage foreign investment in the country, such as the establishment of free trade zones and the creation of a one-stop-shop for investors. Additionally, the country has a favorable tax regime, with no income tax for individuals and no corporate tax for most businesses.

Despite these efforts, the economy is still heavily reliant on the oil industry, and the country is vulnerable to fluctuations in oil prices. As a result, the government has implemented a number of measures to reduce its dependence on oil, such as the introduction of a Value-Added Tax (VAT) in 2021 and plans to increase investment in renewable energy.

DEMOGRAPHICS

Kuwait has a population of approximately 4.45 million people, according to 2022 estimates. The population is composed of both Kuwaiti citizens and foreign nationals from over 100 countries. Kuwaitis make up about 32.6% of the population, while foreign nationals account for the remaining 67.4%.

Arabic is the official language of Kuwait, and Islam is the predominant religion, with about 75% of the population being Muslim. The remaining 25% of the population is composed of Christians, Hindus, Buddhists, and other religious groups.

Kuwait has a relatively young population, with about 64% of the population being under the age of 35. The country has a high life expectancy, with an average of about 78 years.

Kuwait has a high Human Development Index (HDI) and is considered a developed country. The country has a literacy rate of about 96%, and education is free and compulsory for Kuwaiti citizens from kindergarten through high school. Kuwait also has several universities and higher education institutions.

EDUCATION

Kuwait has a well-established education system, with free education provided for all Kuwaiti citizens from pre-school to university level. Education is mandatory for all children aged 6 to 14, and the literacy rate in Kuwait is very high at 96%.

Kuwait has several universities, including Kuwait University, the largest and oldest university in the country, established in 1966. There are also several private universities and colleges. The education system in Kuwait is overseen by the Ministry of Education, which has been implementing reforms in recent years to improve the quality of education.

Kuwait also has a number of specialized institutions, such as the Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, the Kuwait Institute for Medical Specializations, and the Public Authority for Applied Education and Training, which offer vocational and technical training programs.

English is taught as a second language in Kuwaiti schools, and there are also many international schools that offer education in English or other languages. Additionally, many Kuwaiti students choose to study abroad, particularly in the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia.

HEALTHCARE

Kuwait has a comprehensive healthcare system that is funded by the government and provides free or low-cost medical services to its citizens and residents. The healthcare system consists of a network of public hospitals and clinics, as well as private hospitals and clinics that offer specialized care.

The Ministry of Health oversees the public healthcare system and is responsible for ensuring that healthcare services are accessible and of high quality. The government has invested heavily in healthcare infrastructure, and Kuwait has a high number of hospital beds per capita compared to other countries in the region.

In addition to traditional medical services, Kuwait also has a strong focus on preventative healthcare, including regular health screenings and vaccinations. The government has implemented several public health initiatives aimed at reducing the incidence of chronic diseases such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

The private healthcare sector in Kuwait is also growing, with many hospitals and clinics offering specialized services such as cosmetic surgery and fertility treatments. Private healthcare services are generally more expensive than public services, but are often more accessible and offer shorter wait times.

Overall, Kuwait has a well-developed healthcare system that provides accessible and affordable healthcare services to its citizens and residents.

CULTURE

Kuwait has a rich and diverse cultural heritage that reflects the country’s historical and geographical influences. Traditional Arab and Islamic customs and values are prevalent in Kuwaiti culture, but the country also has a unique identity shaped by its Bedouin past, its maritime heritage, and its location at the crossroads of major trade routes.

One of the defining features of Kuwaiti culture is hospitality. Kuwaitis are known for their warm and welcoming nature, and hospitality is considered a duty and an honor. Traditional Kuwaiti clothing for men is the dishdasha, a long white robe, while women typically wear the abaya, a loose black robe that covers the entire body. Kuwaiti cuisine is also an important aspect of the country’s culture, with dishes such as machboos (a spicy rice dish with meat or fish) and ghoozi (roast lamb or mutton stuffed with rice, meat, and spices) being popular.

Arts and literature have a long history in Kuwait, and the country has produced many notable poets, writers, and artists. The traditional Bedouin art of weaving is still practiced in some parts of Kuwait, and the country is also known for its pottery, glasswork, and calligraphy. In recent years, Kuwait has become a hub for contemporary art, with several art galleries and cultural institutions showcasing the work of local and international artists.

Islamic customs and values also play an important role in Kuwaiti culture, with mosques and prayer being a central part of daily life. The country has a rich Islamic heritage and is home to several important Islamic landmarks, including the Grand Mosque and the Kuwait National Mosque.

Kuwait also has a vibrant music scene, with traditional Arabic music being popular alongside Western-style pop and rock. The country hosts several music festivals and concerts throughout the year, including the annual Kuwait International Music Festival.

Sports are also an important part of Kuwaiti culture, with soccer being the most popular sport in the country. The Kuwaiti national soccer team has had some success in regional and international competitions. Other popular sports include basketball, handball, and camel racing.

Overall, Kuwait’s culture is a blend of traditional Arab and Islamic customs and modern influences, reflecting the country’s unique history and position in the region.

NATURAL RESOURCES

Kuwait is a country rich in natural resources, with significant reserves of oil and natural gas. It has the world’s sixth largest oil reserves, estimated at 101.5 billion barrels, and the fourth largest natural gas reserves, estimated at 63 trillion cubic feet. The country’s economy is heavily dependent on oil and gas exports, which account for about 90% of total export earnings and 75% of government revenue.

Apart from oil and gas, Kuwait also has significant reserves of other minerals, including limestone, gypsum, and iron ore. However, these resources are not currently fully exploited. Additionally, Kuwait has a small agricultural sector, but it is limited by the country’s arid climate and lack of freshwater resources.

Kuwait also has a rich marine environment with a diverse range of fish species, and the fishing industry has historically been an important part of the country’s economy. However, overfishing and pollution have led to a decline in fish stocks in recent years. The country has also taken steps to develop renewable energy sources such as solar power and wind power in order to diversify its energy mix and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.

ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES

Kuwait faces several environmental issues, primarily related to air and water pollution, as well as desertification and soil degradation. The country’s heavy reliance on oil production and refining has led to significant air pollution, with high levels of particulate matter and sulfur dioxide emissions. This has resulted in respiratory problems among the population and has also had a negative impact on the environment, including damage to vegetation and soil.

Water pollution is also a major concern, with much of the country’s water resources being contaminated due to untreated sewage and industrial waste. In addition, the over-extraction of groundwater has led to saltwater intrusion and a decline in freshwater resources, leading to the need to rely heavily on desalination plants for potable water.

Kuwait has also experienced significant desertification and soil degradation, due in part to unsustainable agricultural practices and overgrazing, as well as oil exploration and extraction activities. The country has implemented several programs to combat these environmental issues, including the Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, which conducts research and provides advice on environmental protection and conservation. The government has also established protected areas, such as the Al-Zour Wildlife Reserve and the Boubyan Island Protected Area, to help preserve biodiversity and natural habitats.

HUMAN RIGHTS

Kuwait has a mixed record on human rights. While the country is known for having a relatively high level of freedom of speech and press, there have been concerns over restrictions on political freedoms, treatment of migrant workers, and discrimination against women and members of the LGBT+ community.

The constitution of Kuwait guarantees freedom of expression and the press, but there have been instances of censorship and self-censorship by journalists and media outlets. Additionally, the government has been accused of limiting political freedoms and cracking down on dissent, particularly in the wake of the 2011 Arab Spring uprisings.

There have also been reports of abuse and exploitation of foreign workers in Kuwait, particularly in the domestic and construction sectors. Migrant workers make up a significant portion of the country’s population, but they often face poor working conditions, low wages, and restrictions on their ability to change employers or leave the country.

In terms of gender equality, Kuwait has made some progress in recent years, such as granting women the right to vote and run for office in 2005. However, women still face discrimination in areas such as employment, inheritance, and divorce. There are also no legal protections for members of the LGBT+ community, and discrimination and harassment against them are common.

Overall, while Kuwait has made some strides in promoting human rights, there is still room for improvement, particularly in areas such as political freedoms, labor rights, and equality for marginalized groups.

FOODS

Kuwaiti cuisine is a blend of Arabic, Persian, Indian, and Mediterranean influences, with a focus on using local ingredients such as rice, lamb, chicken, and seafood. One of the most popular dishes in Kuwait is machboos, a spiced rice dish typically made with lamb or chicken, and served with vegetables and a tomato-based sauce. Another popular dish is thareed, a bread-based dish made with meat or chicken and vegetables, and typically eaten during Ramadan.

Other traditional Kuwaiti dishes include:

• Margoog: a stew made with vegetables and meat, and flavored with a blend of spices
• Gabout: a stuffed pastry filled with meat, onions, and spices
• Grilled fish: a popular dish due to Kuwait’s proximity to the sea
• Balaleet: a sweet vermicelli pudding flavored with cardamom and rosewater, typically eaten for breakfast.

Kuwait also has a thriving street food culture, with popular snacks including shawarma (meat grilled on a spit and served in a wrap or pita bread), falafel (deep-fried chickpea balls), and samosas (triangular pastries filled with meat or vegetables). Tea is the most popular beverage in Kuwait, but coffee (typically served strong and spiced with cardamom) and fresh juices are also popular.

TRAVEL DESTINATIONS

Kuwait has several travel destinations that showcase the country’s rich history, culture, and natural beauty. Some popular travel destinations in Kuwait include:

• Kuwait Towers: One of the most iconic landmarks in Kuwait, the Kuwait Towers are a group of three towers located on the Arabian Gulf Road. The towers offer panoramic views of the city, and the main tower also has a restaurant and a viewing sphere.
• Grand Mosque: Also known as the Kuwait State Mosque, the Grand Mosque is one of the largest mosques in Kuwait. It was built in 1986 and can hold up to 10,000 worshippers at a time.
• Failaka Island: This island is located off the coast of Kuwait and is known for its archaeological sites, including a Greek temple, ancient houses, and a cemetery. Visitors can take a ferry from Kuwait City to reach the island.
• Al Shaheed Park: A large park located in Kuwait City, Al Shaheed Park is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. The park features a large lake, walking trails, botanical gardens, and a cultural center.
• Liberation Tower: The Liberation Tower is one of the tallest structures in Kuwait and was built to commemorate Kuwait’s liberation from Iraqi occupation in 1991. Visitors can take an elevator to the top for stunning views of the city.
• Souk Al-Mubarakiya: A traditional market located in the heart of Kuwait City, Souk Al-Mubarakiya is a popular destination for shopping and sampling local foods. Visitors can find everything from spices and perfumes to clothing and souvenirs.
• Tareq Rajab Museum: This private museum is home to a vast collection of Islamic art and artifacts, including ceramics, textiles, and jewelry. It is located in the Salmiya area of Kuwait City.
• The Avenues Mall: One of the largest shopping malls in the Middle East, the Avenues Mall features over 800 stores, a movie theater, and an indoor amusement park. It is a popular destination for shopping and entertainment.
• Scientific Center: This aquarium and science museum is located on the Arabian Gulf Road and features a variety of exhibits on marine life, the human body, and space exploration.

Overall, Kuwait offers a mix of modern amenities and cultural experiences for visitors to explore.

CELEBRITIES

Kuwait has produced many notable celebrities in various fields. In the entertainment industry, Kuwaiti actors and actresses such as Abdul Hussain Abdul Redha, Hayat Al-Fahad, and Souad Abdullah have gained regional and international recognition for their performances in movies, TV dramas, and theater. Kuwait has also produced several well-known singers, including Abdullah Rowaished, Nawal Al Kuwaitiya, and Mutrif Al-Mutrif.

In the world of sports, Kuwait has produced several prominent athletes, including Fehaid Al-Deehani, a gold medalist in shooting at the 2016 Summer Olympics, and Mohammad Al-Khuwaylidi, a former professional footballer who played for several European clubs. In addition, Kuwait has also made its mark in the field of business, with several Kuwaiti billionaires, such as Kutayba Alghanim, Nasser Al-Kharafi, and Bassam Alghanim, making it onto Forbes’ list of the world’s wealthiest people.

Overall, Kuwait has a rich and diverse cultural heritage and has made significant contributions to various fields, producing many successful and influential individuals.

NEWSPAPERS

Kuwait has several newspapers that are published daily and weekly in both Arabic and English languages. Some of the popular Arabic language newspapers in Kuwait.

• Al-Qabas: one of the oldest and most widely circulated newspapers in Kuwait, founded in 1972.
• Al-Rai: another popular daily newspaper in Kuwait, founded in 1961.
• Al-Anbaa: a daily newspaper founded in 1976, known for its coverage of local and regional news.
• Al-Jarida: a daily newspaper founded in 2007, known for its independent journalism.
• Al-Seyassah: a daily newspaper founded in 1965, known for its investigative reporting and political coverage.
• Al-Watan: a daily newspaper founded in 2005, known for its focus on social issues and human interest stories.
• Kuwait Times: an English-language daily newspaper founded in 1961, known for its coverage of international news and events.

These are just a few examples of the many newspapers available in Kuwait, catering to a diverse range of readers and interests.

TV CHANNELS

Some of the popular TV channels in Kuwait include:

• Kuwait TV: The official state-run television channel of Kuwait, offering news, current affairs, entertainment, and cultural programming.
• Al Rai TV: A private television network in Kuwait that broadcasts news, political analysis, and social and cultural programs.
• Al Watan TV: A Kuwaiti satellite television channel that covers news and current events, as well as lifestyle, health, and entertainment programs.
• Al Qabas TV: A Kuwaiti television channel that features news, talk shows, and other programs covering various topics such as politics, economics, and social issues.
• KTV Ethraa: A Kuwaiti television channel that focuses on educational and cultural programming.
• Kuwait Sport: A television channel dedicated to sports, featuring live events, analysis, and other sports-related programs.
• Al-Jazeera Sport: A popular sports television network based in Qatar that is widely watched in Kuwait.
• MBC: A leading pan-Arab television network that broadcasts popular shows, dramas, and other entertainment programs.
• OSN: A satellite television network that provides a wide range of entertainment channels, including movies, sports, and documentaries.
• BeIN Sports: A Qatari-based global sports network that broadcasts live sports events, news, and analysis.

RADIO

Kuwait has a variety of radio stations that broadcast in both Arabic and English. Here are some of the most popular ones:

• Kuwait FM: This is the official radio station of Kuwait, broadcasting news, cultural programs, and music in both Arabic and English.
• Radio Kuwait Quran: This station broadcasts the Quran 24/7.
• Marina FM: This is a popular private radio station that plays a mix of Arabic and English music, as well as talk shows and news.
• Virgin Radio Kuwait: This is a popular English-language radio station that plays a mix of international and Arabic pop music.
• Farah FM: This station plays a mix of Arabic and Western music, as well as talk shows and news.
• Islam2Day Radio: This station focuses on Islamic teachings and broadcasts programs in Arabic.
• Kuwait Radio Live: This station plays a mix of Arabic and English music, as well as news and talk shows.
• Quraan Kareem Radio: This station broadcasts the Quran 24/7.
• Alif Alif FM: This station plays a mix of Arabic and Western music, as well as talk shows and news.
• Radio Sawa: This is a US-funded Arabic-language station that broadcasts news, talk shows, and music.

FACTS

Here are some interesting and random facts about Kuwait.

• Kuwait is a small country located in the Middle East, bordered by Iraq and Saudi Arabia.
• The official language is Arabic.
• The population of Kuwait is around 4.8 million people.
• Kuwait is one of the wealthiest countries in the world, thanks to its vast oil reserves.
• Kuwait has a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary system of government.
• The currency of Kuwait is the Kuwaiti dinar (KWD), which is one of the highest-valued currencies in the world.
• The Kuwait Towers, a group of three towers, are the most famous landmarks of the country.
• Kuwait has a hot desert climate with little rainfall and high temperatures year-round.
• The country has a coastline that stretches for about 500 kilometers along the Persian Gulf.
• Kuwait has a diverse population, with many expatriates from countries such as India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and the Philippines.
• The Kuwaiti culture is heavily influenced by Islamic traditions and customs.
• Kuwait is home to a number of museums and cultural centers, including the Kuwait National Museum, the Scientific Center, and the Kuwait Islamic Arts Museum.
• Traditional Kuwaiti cuisine includes dishes such as machboos (spiced rice with meat), margoog (a stew made with vegetables and meat), and thareed (a bread-and-meat dish).
• The country has a high literacy rate of around 96%.
• Kuwait has a number of universities, including Kuwait University and the American University of Kuwait.
• The Kuwaiti dinar is the highest-valued currency in the world, with an exchange rate of approximately 3.3 USD.
• Kuwait is known for its oil reserves, which are among the largest in the world.
• The country was invaded by Iraq in 1990, leading to the Gulf War, which lasted until 1991.
• Kuwait has a number of public holidays, including National Day, Liberation Day, and Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha, which are Islamic holidays.
• The Kuwaiti flag features the colors green, white, red, and black, which represent peace, purity, strength, and the battle against injustice, respectively.
• Kuwait has a well-developed infrastructure, with a modern road network and a number of international airports.
• The country is known for its high standard of living and is a popular destination for expatriates.
• Kuwait has a number of shopping malls and luxury boutiques, and is known for its high-end fashion industry.
• The Kuwaiti government provides free healthcare and education to all citizens.
• The country is a member of the United Nations, the World Bank, and the International Monetary Fund, among other organizations.
• The official religion of Kuwait is Islam, and the majority of the population is Muslim.
• The Kuwaiti oil industry is largely controlled by the state-owned Kuwait Petroleum Corporation.
• The country is home to a number of historical sites, including Failaka Island, which has been inhabited since ancient times.
• The Kuwaiti government has been actively promoting tourism in recent years, with a focus on cultural and eco-tourism.
• The Kuwaiti economy is heavily dependent on the oil industry, which accounts for around 60% of the country’s GDP.