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10 Expat Tips For Life in Kuwait

Icon User By Jenna Jolie | Update on: Mar 28, 2025

10 Expat Tips You Might Not Know About Life in Kuwait

Kuwait is a fascinating country located on the Arabian Gulf, offering a unique experience for expats. Whether you are new to expat life in Kuwait or have been here for a while, there are some aspects of life in Kuwait that may surprise you. As someone who has spent most of their life at Kuwait, here are some insights into Kuwait expat life that you might not know:

Experience life in Kuwait: culture, work, lifestyle, and more

Experience life in Kuwait: culture, work, lifestyle, and more

1. Gas is cheaper than water.

One of the most surprising facts about life in Kuwait is that fuel costs almost nothing. Unlike other countries where people constantly complain about gas prices, here, it’s not even discussed. However, the price of water is a different story altogether.

2. The makeup scene.

Oh, the makeup! Women here go all out, even in broad daylight. Kuwait lifestyle includes dressing up for even the simplest errands. It’s common to see university students wearing stilettos and full glam makeup. Lifestyle in Kuwait revolves around making an impression, no matter the occasion.

3. Diverse nationalities.

Kuwaitis make up only about a third of the population. In Kuwait expat life, you’ll meet people of diverse backgrounds—half Kuwaiti, half American, Iranian, Palestinian, Polish, Filipino, Russian, British, and more. The mix of cultures makes living in Kuwait a truly international experience.

4. Weddings are extravagant.

Weddings here are usually gender-segregated, allowing women to dress up extravagantly. Once the groom enters, many women cover up instantly. What is Kuwait like in terms of celebrations? It’s all about luxury and tradition blended together.

5. Trend-obsessed society.

Kuwaitis are known across the Arab world for their obsession with trends. One of the more peculiar ones was the "Coneheaded Hijab," rumored to be supported by flowered clips or even toilet paper rolls. Kuwait life style is about staying ahead of the latest fads.

6. Fighting over the bill.

People fight over who picks up the bill, arguments that usually feature shouts of “Haram!” and “My seeeeer!” (Which basically means, “You can’t do that!”) Once I went to the grocery store with relatives, and they refused to leave unless I let them pay. (I can’t drive. I had no choice.). It’s all part of the generous and hospitable lifestyle in Kuwait.

7. Kim Kardashian is everywhere.

In Kuwait expat life, one surprising obsession is Kim Kardashian. From teenagers to older women, many people keep up with her show, even if they don’t understand English.

8. Driving is chaotic.

If you ask any expat about life in Kuwait, they’ll likely mention the traffic. The driving test is considered more of a formality than an actual test of skill. People get their licenses with little effort, leading to reckless driving and frequent near-misses.

9. It’s a small world.

I started college this year (there’s one public university, and attendance is not only free, but those who get accepted are paid), and I’ve met so many people I’m connected to in odd ways. I met a girl who was born the same year as me while our families were in the same apartment building. I met the friends of a friend of a friend of mine who is currently in Britain. Another girl and I managed to identify a basketball player we both knew based solely on naming players who are hot and wear sweat bands. Living in Kuwait means experiencing a tight-knit community, whether you like it or not.

10. Prices are interesting.

If you think you’re paying too much for a falafel sandwich in the U.S., you probably are. Here, the standard price is less than 50 cents. Life at Kuwait may be expensive in some ways, but when it comes to local food, it can be surprisingly affordable.

Final Thoughts on Life in Kuwait

For those considering expat life in Kuwait, knowing these cultural quirks will help you adjust more quickly. Kuwait life style is a mix of luxury, tradition, and modernity, making it a unique place to live. Whether you're wondering what is Kuwait like or already experiencing Kuwait expat life, there’s always something new to discover about life in Kuwait.

Culture & Lifestyle in Kuwait

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