Kuwait

At a Glance

Kuwait is a small, wealthy Gulf state with a culture shaped by its Bedouin roots, its oil wealth, and its position as a traditional Arab trading city on the Persian Gulf. The old city has given way almost entirely to modern development, and life is largely lived indoors in air-conditioned malls and restaurants given the intense summer heat. It suits those with a specific interest in Gulf culture or business connections rather than conventional tourism.

• No income tax — ever. Citizens also receive government housing subsidies.
• Nearly 70% of the population are foreign nationals.
• Has the world's sixth-largest proven oil reserves in a country smaller than New Jersey.