Kuwait offers a remarkable mix of Western modernism and liberalism, against the
backdrop of devout spiritualism.
It is a bustling nation, with all of the amenities and luxuries of many of the world’s
most renowned and attractive countries, as well as elaborate and lavish mosques
and palaces.
Kuwait is an oil-rich Middle Eastern country located at the north-western tip of
the Arabian Gulf. The country is bordered on the north and west by Iraq, on the
south by Saudi Arabia and on the east by the Arabian Gulf.
Kuwait ranks third in the Middle East in oil reserves, after Saudi Arabia and Iraq,
and was among the founders of the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries
(OPEC).
Its name comes from an Arabic word for fort, Kut. Kuwait City, the country’s capital,
is situated on an inlet of the Arabian Gulf.
Kuwait is a young country by comparison to its Arabian Gulf neighbours, with just
over 300 years of national history. This fact is obvious in its overall open-mindedness
towards the international community.
The nation has the only national assembly elected by popular vote, among the six
Arab state members of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). In fact, Kuwait has one
of the most receptive and energetic political environments in the region.
Kuwait is divided into five districts, Kuwait City, Hawalli, Jahra, Farwaniya and
Ahmandi, and it has nine islands:
- Auhah Island
- Bubiyan Island
- Failaka Island
- Kubbar Island
- Miskan Island
- Qaruh Island
- Umm al Maradim Island
- Umm an Namil Island
- Warbah Island
The largest of the islands is Bubiyan, which is linked to the mainland by a concrete
bridge.
Economy
Kuwait features a prosperous and fairly open economy, which includes about 10% of
the world’s oil reserves. Petroleum contributes to close to 50% of the nation’s
GDP and about 80% of the government’s income.
Because its climate restricts agricultural development, Kuwait imports almost all
of its food – and three-quarter of its drinking water is distilled or imported.
According to surveys of “economic liberalization” conducted in recent years, the
country ranked ahead of many countries, including Norway, Sweden France, Spain,
Malaysia and Argentina - an obvious indicator of the country’s free economy.
Working toward its aim to reduce the country’s dependence on its oil reserves, the
Kuwaiti government has continuously moved forward with a strategy to increase investment
in other industries.
Among many measures that have been implemented, is the creation of a free trade
zone and the ratification of laws permitting foreign direct and portfolio investment.
Such initiatives are expected to contribute significantly in the long-term prospects
for the country’s economy.
Kuwait has long encouraged foreign investment, although there are restrictions on
the sectors in which foreigners may become involved.
Until fairly recently, Kuwaitis maintained control of businesses that involved foreign
investors. However, in recent years, the country has opened its doors to more foreign
capital and expertise. Early in 2003, the government implemented a new foreign direct
investment (FDI) law that allows for 100% foreign ownership of a business venture
in certain sectors. The law also provides numerous tax breaks and other benefits
that are offered to attract foreign investors.
In terms of taxation, Kuwaiti and foreign nationals are not subject to taxes on
income. No personal income tax is applied, either on salaries or on income from
commercial activities. In addition, no sales taxes, value added taxes, estate taxes
or gift taxes exist.
Kuwait City
Kuwait City, the capital city of Kuwait, has a population of close to 33,000 in
the city, and more than two million in its metropolitan area. Located on the shore
of the Persian Gulf, and containing Kuwait's parliament, the majority of its government
offices, the headquarters of most Kuwaiti corporations and banks, it is by far the
political, cultural and economic centre of the country.
The capital is the main urban centre and includes numerous suburbs. Ahmadi, among
its suburbs, is a main industrial area containing the Ahmadi refinery and oil export
terminals.
After Iraqi forces retreated from Kuwait in early 1991, foreign investors and the
Kuwaiti government were strongly involved in modernizing the city and turning it
into an international business hub. Many hotels, shopping malls and offices were
built in the city.
Kuwait City has become a busy metropolis with impressive high rises, exceptional
luxury hotels and abundant parks. The city's key landmarks are the Kuwait Towers,
which are clearly visible from the harbour.
A Country of Significant Transformation
Kuwait has undergone extraordinary transformations in recent years – evolving form
a country of pearl divers and spice merchants, to one of the worlds' largest oil
exporters, and moving further toward becoming an instrumental business centre.
The nation is extremely cosmopolitan and modern, while maintaining true to its heritage
and traditions.
An exceedingly urbanised state, Kuwait provides a multitude of attractions and services
to locals, Expats and tourists alike. Among other exceptional infrastructure features,
Kuwait’s transportation and communication systems are highly advanced.
As for its populace - Kuwaitis are caring, welcoming, gracious and accommodating.
The country also includes a large Expat population: Of Kuwait’s more than1.5 million
people, over half are non-nationals.
Climate
Kuwait enjoys a variable climate. Summers – from April through October - are hot
and dry. Winters – from November through February - are cool with some precipitation.
March is temperate and pleasant with occasional thunderstorms.
June through September are the driest months; January through March are the wettest.
Leisure Pursuits
As you might expect from everything you have read so far, Kuwait offers a wide range
of leisure activities – to suit all ages and tastes.
The country is very famous for its number of golf clubs, as well as for water sports,
boat rides, cycling and many other activities. Sailing on Catamarans and Yachts
is a wonderful pastime year-round; tennis and bowling are also popular. In addition,
numerous rugby, football, and cricket clubs attract a large number of Expats.
Kuwait is a pleasurable country that offers great business opportunities, remarkable
ruins, lush parks, abundant water sports, and some of the finest collections of
Islamic art in the world.
While Kuwait may not be high on the list of many Expats looking for a great place
to which to relocate - those in the know would beg to differ!
For further information about Kuwait we recommend that you visit
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kuwait where you will find many
useful links and informative articles to prepare you for your move.