Living in Kuwait City

The expat scene: Foreigners are the majority here. Non-Kuwaitis made up 69.6% of the country's population in June 2025, with most coming from South Asia and other Arab countries. Americans are a small group; because every residence permit starts with an employer, your school, hospital or company is usually your first social circle. Two rules shape daily life: alcohol is illegal to bring in or possess, and posts criticizing the government, its leaders or Islam can lead to arrest, even if you wrote them before you arrived.

Healthcare: The State Department describes government and private hospitals as near Western standards. Residents can use government facilities at reasonable cost, with specialists by referral; private hospitals tend to be newer and less crowded. Care isn't free, hospitals often want payment up front, and an unpaid medical bill can lead to an exit ban. Mental health services are limited. Get approval for controlled medications before you fly, and know that a U.S. prescription can't be refilled here; you'll need a local doctor.

Internet and remote work: Home internet runs about $35 a month. Kuwait doesn't change its clocks, so it's seven to eight hours ahead of Eastern, by season. A visitor visa isn't a work permit, so get advice before assuming you can work remotely on one.

LGBTQ expats: Kuwait City isn't a place to live openly. Sex between men is a crime carrying up to seven years in prison, women can be charged under broader morality laws, and the State Department says police use dating apps to run stings. Transgender travelers have reported harassment and detention at entry when their passport doesn't match their sex at birth.

Black Americans: Black American teachers interviewed by Travel Noire described a hard adjustment, with locals leaning on negative stereotypes and often assuming a Black man is a laborer. They also described a growing Black expat community and close friendships within it. Ask your employer to connect you with current Black staff before you sign.

Limited mobility: Kuwaiti law bans discrimination against people with disabilities, and the city is flat, but access depends on the building. Newer and renovated buildings are your best bet. Most hospitals and public buildings have ramps and elevators, though widths and slopes vary, and accessible parking is marked but often taken. The State Department calls public transit generally inaccessible, so plan on a car or ride-share.

Retirement: Kuwait City doesn't fit retirees. Residence comes through an employer, and the summer heat and the current advisory work against it too. If you're planning a retirement move, start with our retirement visa hub. If you have a job offer here, read our guide to moving to Kuwait and the Kuwait work visa page.