Kuwait City

Kuwait's capital, where the Kuwait Towers and the Grand Mosque on the Gulf are the city's landmarks, and the old Souq Al-Mubarakiya, Sheikh Abdullah Al-Salem Cultural Centre and Failaka Island capture the flavor of the Gulf.

Kuwait City is the capital of Kuwait, on the south shore of Kuwait Bay in the northwestern corner of the Arabian Gulf. The main sights are spread along the coastal Arabian Gulf Street and fall into three areas. First, the old town, with Seif Palace, the Grand Mosque, Souq Al-Mubarakiya, the National Museum and Sadu House, all walkable. Second, heading east along the coast: Souq Sharq and the fish market, the Kuwait Towers and Green Island, and further east the Sheikh Abdullah Al-Salem Cultural Centre and the Scientific Center in Salmiya. Third, Al Shaheed Park on the site of the old city wall and the Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmad Cultural Centre. Outside the city, take a ferry to Failaka Island to see its Greek ruins, or drive the 36 km Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmad Causeway. The best time to visit is November–March, with daytime temperatures around 20°C; May–September is extremely hot, often above 45°C, so focus on indoor museums and shopping malls. Allow 2–3 days. Public transport is limited, so taxis and ride-hailing apps are the main way to get around. Kuwait is a dry country, and during Ramadan eating and drinking in public during daylight hours is not allowed; women must wear a headscarf when visiting mosques. Chinese citizens can apply for an e-visa; check the latest official entry requirements.

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