Kuwait Safety Tips: What Every Traveller Should Know

Is Kuwait safe?

Kuwait is one of the safest countries in the Gulf and the wider Middle East. Violent crime against visitors is rare, and you can walk around Kuwait City, Salmiya and the malls comfortably, including at night. The main day-to-day risks are petty theft, traffic and the extreme summer heat rather than crime.

Everyday safety

• Traffic is the real hazard. Kuwait has some of the most aggressive driving in the region, with speeding and sudden lane changes common. Cross only at marked crossings and stay alert near the Gulf Road and ring roads.
• Heat is serious. From May to September temperatures regularly hit 45 to 50 degrees Celsius. Carry water, plan outdoor activities for early morning, and avoid midday sun.
• Respect local laws. Kuwait is a dry country: alcohol is fully illegal, including being drunk in public. Drug offences carry severe penalties. Dress modestly, especially in markets and government buildings.
• Ramadan etiquette. Do not eat, drink or smoke in public during daylight hours in Ramadan, as it is against the law.
• Photography. Avoid photographing government buildings, military sites, ports and the airport.

Common scams

• Taxi overcharging. Many street taxis have no meter or refuse to use it. Agree the fare before getting in, or use ride-hailing apps like Careem and Uber for clear pricing.
• Fake fees and tickets. Be wary of anyone demanding instant cash fines on the street; ask to settle officially.
• Online and rental scams. For apartments or cars, never pay deposits before seeing the property or a verified contract.
• Currency confusion. The Kuwaiti dinar is one of the world's highest-value currencies and divides into 1,000 fils. Count change carefully and use marked exchange houses.

Areas to be careful

Kuwait has no real no-go zones for tourists. Use normal caution in crowded souqs such as Souq Al-Mubarakiya, keep valuables zipped away, and take care around industrial and port areas where you may not be welcome. Solo female travellers generally feel safe but may attract unwanted attention; dressing conservatively helps.

Emergency numbers

• 112 is the single number for police, ambulance and fire.
• 777 is the older police number, still in use.
• Save your embassy contact and keep a digital copy of your passport.

Stay connected in Kuwait

A HelloSIM eSIM keeps you online the moment you land, so you can use maps, translation and book rides or hotels without expensive roaming charges.