What to Expect in the First 30 Days in Kuwait

Posted by: AdminMH
May 12, 2019

 

Respect for Religion

Islamic religious values are greatly respected in Kuwait. Showing any disrespect towards religious beliefs or practices is considered deeply offensive and very likely to result in a heavy fine and/or imprisonment. Other religions are respected and can be followed by the expatriate community.

Men wear a dishdasha, a full-length robe with a center opening. For women, the hair and neck is traditionally covered with a hijab and some additionally wear a black veil or niqab which covers the entire face.  Expat women are not required to cover up with an abaya, a large amount of sensitivity should be considered so as not to attract unwarranted attention or to cause offence. Generally, covering the knees and shoulders when out in public is a must.

During the holy month of Ramadan, Muslims fast from dawn to sunset. Eating, drinking (even water), and smoking in public places are strictly prohibited to both Muslims and non-Muslims. People may be fined or imprisoned for violating the prohibition.

Every evening during Ramadan, Muslims celebrate the breaking of their fast with an evening meal called Iftar.

Kuwait Price Guide

Accommodation (monthly rent in good area)
Apartment (1 bedroom) in City Centre	KWD 288.56
Apartment (1 bedroom) Outside of Centre	KWD 225.18
Apartment (3 bedrooms) in City Centre	KWD 555.75
Apartment (3 bedrooms) Outside of Centre	KWD  434.18

 

Groceries
Milk (1 liter)	KWD 0.42
Loaf of Fresh White Bread	KWD 0.33
Chicken Breasts (Boneless, Skinless), (1kg)	KWD 1.43
Eggs (dozen)	KWD 0.56
Cigarettes	KWD 0.75
Utilities
Mobile call rate	KWD 0.05 per minute
Internet with TV and landline	KWD 7.98 per month
Electricity and water per person	KWD 11.24 per month
Eating Out
Three-course dinner in mid-range restaurant	KWD 12
McMeal at McDonalds	KWD 2
Cappuccino (regular)	KWD 1.54
Beer (non-alcoholic)	KWD 0.42
Transportation
Taxi rate	KWD 1
Bus fare	KWD 0.25
Petrol per liter	KWD 0.10

Obtaining Driver’s License

To obtain a driving license, you should first obtain a learner’s license and pass the driving test. Expatriates applying for driving license should possess a university degree certificate (attested by the ministries), should draw a minimum salary of KWD 400 per month and should possess a valid residence, having resided for at least two years in Kuwait, prior to applying for the license.

Follow essential rules of the road and Paying Fines

In case of breaking traffic light, reckless driving and performing stunts you will be fine KWD 500. It will also include impounding of vehicles and detention of motorists, as well as citizens and expatriates.

Vehicles may be impounded for two months, while motorists will be detained for 48 hours with court verdicts that may order their detention for a minimum of two months.

Minor violations like parking at prohibited areas, using spaces designated for handicaps, exceeding speed limit, using telephone by hand while driving, driving without holding license or vehicle document, expiration of license, driving in the opposite direction, disrupting the traffic, failure to abide by traffic rules and directives, and evading traffic patrol teams will attract penalties of around KWD 10 – KD 200.

Source:
Gulf Law | http://www.gulflaw.info/index.php