If you’re planning a trip to Kuwait, it’s important to understand local customs and etiquette. The culture in Kuwait is deeply rooted in tradition, religion, and respect for family values. By learning a few simple guidelines, you’ll have an easier time interacting with locals and avoiding any unintentional offense.
Greetings
Kuwaitis place a lot of importance on greetings. The most common greeting is “As-salaam ‘alaykum”, which means “Peace be upon you.” A suitable reply to this greeting is “Wa ‘alaykum as-salaam”, meaning “And peace be upon you as well.”
Handshakes between men are common, but these are typically a light grip. Don’t be surprised if the handshake lasts longer than you’re used to—the extended contact shows warmth and friendliness. However, a man should wait to see if a woman initiates a handshake. If she doesn’t, it’s best to simply nod or verbally greet her.
It’s also polite when meeting someone for the first time to ask about their health and family. This shows your interest and respect. For instance, you can say “Kayf halek?” meaning “How are you?” You can follow that with something like “Kayf hala a’ailtak?”, which means “How is your family?”
Dress Code
Kuwait has specific expectations for how both men and women should dress in public. Modesty is key, especially because the country is predominantly Muslim. Women, both local and foreign, should avoid wearing tight or revealing clothing, such as short skirts, tank tops, or shorts. It’s recommended to wear clothes that fully cover your shoulders, arms, and legs.
Men should also dress modestly. While short sleeves are generally acceptable, wearing sleeveless tops in public is frowned upon. Shorts that rise above the knees are also considered inappropriate in public unless you’re at the beach or poolside.
Headscarves are not mandatory for non-Muslim women, but it’s respectful to carry one with you if you visit religious sites.
Public Behavior
Interaction Between Men and Women
In Kuwait, public displays of affection between men and women are not acceptable. Holding hands or hugging in public can be seen as improper and disrespectful. Married couples are expected to act with modesty in public spaces.
It is common for men and women to socialize separately in social gatherings, especially in more conservative families. Be mindful and follow the lead of your local hosts in social settings.
Gestures
Using your left hand to eat or give something to someone is considered impolite in Kuwaiti culture. The right hand is always preferred for such actions, as the left hand is traditionally associated with hygiene tasks.
Avoid pointing at someone, as this can be seen as rude. Instead, if you need to motion towards a person or object, it’s better to gesture using your whole hand.
Footwear etiquette is also important. It’s customary to remove your shoes when entering someone’s home or a mosque. Always look for cues, as some places will expect you to do the same. If you’re unsure, it’s not rude to ask the host.
Talking About Religion and Politics
Kuwaitis are generally open and hospitable, but it’s best to avoid discussing topics such as religion and politics unless you’ve been invited to do so. Islam is a deep part of the culture, and offering critical opinions could easily be taken the wrong way.
Questioning the Emir or the government is similarly sensitive. It’s better to stay neutral or steer conversations back towards less controversial topics like travel or cuisine.
Social Etiquette
Hospitality
Kuwaitis are famous for their hospitality. If you’re invited to someone’s home, it’s considered polite to bring a small gift. Flowers, dates, or sweets are appropriate choices. If you want to bring something extra special, be sure to check that it doesn’t contain alcohol, as consumption of alcohol is forbidden in Kuwait.
When you’re in a local’s home, always follow your host’s lead. If you’re offered coffee or tea, it’s respectful to accept, even if you only take a sip. In many households, drinks and snacks are served as a gesture of welcome. Refusing can be seen as a slight.
Entering a Home
As mentioned earlier, shoes are generally removed when entering a Kuwaiti home. If you’re unsure whether to take off your shoes, pay attention to what others are doing or ask your host directly.
When seated in someone’s home, avoid sitting in a way that points the soles of your feet toward others, as this is seen as disrespectful. Try to sit in a relaxed but mindful posture.
Ramadan Etiquette
If you’re traveling during Ramadan, it’s important to be aware of some additional customs. Ramadan is a holy month of fasting observed by Muslims. From sunrise to sunset, eating, drinking, or even chewing gum in public is prohibited for both Muslims and non-Muslims.
If you need to eat or drink, try to do so in private spaces or secluded areas. Many restaurants will close during the day and reopen when the sun sets.
During Ramadan, greetings may also shift slightly. Instead of simply saying “As-salaam ‘alaykum”, you can greet someone with “Ramadan Kareem”, which means “Generous Ramadan”, or “Ramadan Mubarak”, which means “Blessed Ramadan.”
General Tipping Etiquette
Tipping isn’t an obligatory custom in Kuwait, but it is appreciated. In restaurants, a service fee is often included in the bill. However, if a service charge isn’t added, leaving 10% is a good rule of thumb.
Cabbing around the city? Tipping isn’t expected for taxis, but rounding up to the nearest rounded amount is a polite gesture.
Respect for Religion
Islam is the official religion of Kuwait, and mosques play a central role in the daily lives of Kuwaitis. It’s not uncommon to hear the call to prayer several times a day. During these moments, especially on Fridays, you’ll notice businesses or shops slowing down or closing altogether. It’s best to be mindful of these times and follow the local pace.
Since Friday is a religious day, many offices and services are closed. Plan accordingly, as this is a day dedicated to prayer, rest, and family time. Saturdays are also part of the Kuwaiti weekend, so most places will resume normal activity by Sunday.
If you choose to visit mosques, dress modestly and always ask if photos are allowed before taking any. Some mosques require visitors to remove their shoes before entering. If you’re a woman, you may be required to wear a headscarf and cover your arms and legs. As always, it’s best to observe locals for proper behavior or ask your guide.
Final Thoughts
Respecting Kuwaiti customs and traditions will go a long way in building positive and meaningful interactions with locals. While Kuwaitis are welcoming, showing awareness of their cultural norms and social etiquette will earn you greater respect and help you connect on a deeper level.
Traveling with cultural sensitivity is key to a better travel experience. Enjoy your time in Kuwait, and always approach every interaction with courtesy and an open mind.
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