Kuwait has not garnered a lot of international attention as a tourist destination compared to its neighbours, like Saudi Arabia and the UAE. However, this tiny nation holds its own and has plenty to offer curious travellers who want to explore non-mainstream destinations. Many visitors to the country only go to tick it off their list, staying only a day or two. But there is so much to soak up here that a single night is not nearly enough.

Determining your ideal length of stay can be tough, since Kuwait is not known for a thriving tourism industry. However, that is exactly why it is so magical. Visitors to Kuwait will not be bombarded with hundreds of tacky tourist attractions; here, it is all about experiencing the local culture and seeing what life is really like for residents.

Finding the perfect trip duration in this under-the-radar nation will come down to the type of trip you want and how much you want to see.

How Long Is The Perfect Stay?

If you want to only see the highlights of Kuwait City, then two nights are perfect. However, you will be missing out on the nuances that you can’t experience in a rushed trip. At a minimum, consider four or five days to explore the city and its surrounding areas, and up to a week if you also want to visit the islands.

There is no perfect trip duration. Each traveller is different. Some want to only see the noteworthy attractions and move on. Others enjoy a slower pace where they can connect with locals, rest, and discover local gems. And some want something in between.

• Two nights: Explore the main tourist attractions in the city and take some pictures.
• Four nights: See the tourist attractions and head out into the desert to see the natural scenery and camel farms.
• Six nights: Experience everything the city has to offer, as well as the surrounding desert and islands.

We’d recommend at least four nights to make the most of your time in Kuwait.

Be mindful of the local culture when you’re there. Drinking and drugs are outlawed, as is gambling. However, locals and visitors can enjoy safe online casinos by using VPNs and accessing offshore sites like those on this guide to Kuwait market, where users can find secure, Arabic-friendly platforms.

Things To See And Do

To help you determine how much time you will need in Kuwait, it is best to know what to do and see in the country.

Kuwait Towers

The Kuwait Towers have become the symbols of the country. These structures combine modern and Arabic designs, and act as water towers, telecommunications towers, and feature a restaurant and a revolving viewing deck where you can see a 360-degree view of the city.

Sadu House

Sadu House gives you the opportunity to learn about Bedouin weaving, embroidery and fabrics. It is a small museum that doesn’t always make the lists of things to do; however, it is very informative. The house was constructed in 1936 by an affluent family and has been beautifully preserved by the Al Sadu Conservation Team.

Kuwait City Old Souq

You can spend hours exploring the souqs of Kuwait. These ancient markets have not been tainted by the tourism trade, and still sell authentic goods and fair prices. You will discover spices, perfumes (plenty of oud), traditional sweets, fruits and veg, meat, and even gold here. There are a couple of souqs around the city, but the Souq Al-Mubarakiya is the most historic, which is why it is also called the Old Souq. There are also two museums in the Souq: The first pharmacy and the Sheikh Mubarak Kiosk. You’re likely to meet many welcoming locals at these markets.

Al Qurain Martyrs Museum

You will have to leave the city for this destination, but it is well worth the drive to Qurain. This museum was constructed to commemorate those who tried to resist the Iraqi invasion during the Gulf War in the 1990s. It is a sobering experience as you see the bullet holes in the building, and the destruction from the grenades and tank that fired at the house.

Kuwait’s Desert

The desert is absolutely beautiful in its silence. It is mainly a flat desert, extending to the horizon, and dotted with camel farms that you can visit to learn more about this historic industry. You can go on a desert safari, ride camels, greet baby camels, and also enjoy shows at traditional Bedouin camps under the stars.

Mirror House

This is a strange museum in Kuwait City. The residence is covered inside and outside with incredible mosaic tiles and mirrors, from the mind of artist Lidia Al-Qattan. Tours of the mirror house can only be done by appointment.

Failaka Island

Failaka Island is not a tropical destination. This small dot on the map has an incredible history and is an archaeological marvel. There are abandoned buildings following the war, as well as a Greek temple and digs that have uncovered evidence of civilizations from 3000 BC. It’s a sombre visit, since the abandoned buildings are riddled with bullet holes, but well worth it.