Welcome to Our Expat Community in Kuwait!

Whether you’re in the early stages of considering a move to Kuwait, or have been living there for a while, there’s a great deal to be gained from the InterNations community. With InterNations, you've found your home away from home and can get the support you need both before and after your move. Unsure about procedures relating to applying for a work visa? Concerned about safety or inadvertently breaking unfamiliar regulations? Or just want to meet other expats and have some fun? The InterNations network can help with all these issues and many more! You’ll encounter lots of helpful and friendly expats in Kuwait as well as in-depth articles on living and working in the country — a good way to find answers to all of your questions. Joining the community is a great way to avoid common pitfalls which the innocent newcomer could encounter. And if you’re hoping to make new friends, you won’t be disappointed, as InterNations gives you the opportunity to join like-minded people in a range of local groups.

With InterNations, you never stand alone. Whether you are moving to another country or going on a business trip somewhere — our communities around the world are there to make you feel at home wherever you are. Feel free to check out our vibrant InterNations Communities in countries like Malaysia or France.

Jump right in:

• Events for Expats in Cities All Over Kuwait
• Kuwait Expat Forums

Living in Kuwait: Your Questions, Answered

If you're a new or soon-to-be expat in Kuwait, you might have some questions about what life is like in this Middle Eastern country. To help you get started, we've compiled answers to seven common questions about living in Kuwait. For more specific questions or to share your own experiences, consider joining InterNations, a community of expats who enjoy helping one another.

1. Is it necessary to speak the local language?
While Arabic is the official language in Kuwait, English is widely spoken, especially in business and among the expat community. Learning some Arabic can help you better connect with locals and understand the country's culture, but you should be able to get by with English in most situations.

2. What are the average rent prices in popular expat locations?

Kuwait City:

• Single-room flat: 250–400 KWD (830–1,325 USD) per month
• Three-bedroom flat: 600–1,000 KWD (1,990–3,315 USD) per month

Salwa:

• Single-room flat: 200–350 KWD (665–1,160 USD) per month
• Three-bedroom flat: 550–900 KWD (1,825–2,985 USD) per month

Mahboula:

• Single-room flat: 150–300 KWD (498–995 USD) per month
• Three-bedroom flat: 450–750 KWD (1,495–2,485 USD) per month

3. How safe is Kuwait for expats?
Kuwait is generally a safe country for expats. However, it's important to exercise common-sense precautions, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night, securing your belongings, and staying informed about local security updates.

4. How does the healthcare system work in Kuwait?
Kuwait has a public healthcare system that provides healthcare services to citizens and expats who hold valid residency permits. Expats may be required to pay a nominal fee for some medical services. Many expats also choose to have private health insurance for additional coverage or to access private healthcare facilities.

5. How can I open a bank account in Kuwait?
To open a bank account in Kuwait, you'll typically need to provide your passport, a valid residence permit, a letter of employment, and a no-objection certificate (NOC) from your employer. Some banks may require additional documentation or an appointment, so it's a good idea to check with the specific bank you plan to use.

6. What is the cost of living in Kuwait?
The cost of living in Kuwait can vary depending on the location and your lifestyle. Housing, transportation, and utilities can be more expensive compared to some other countries. However, food, fuel, and some consumer goods can be relatively affordable. As an expat, you can expect to live comfortably on a moderate budget.

7. Can I drive with my foreign driver's license in Kuwait?
Foreigners can drive in Kuwait using an International Driving Permit (IDP) along with their valid foreign driver's license. However, once you obtain a Kuwaiti residency permit, you'll need to apply for a Kuwaiti driver's license. This process may require taking a driving test, depending on your nationality and the type of license you hold.