The State of Kuwait is a small oil-rich monarchy on the coast of the Persian Gulf, enclosed by Saudi Arabia in the south and Iraq in the north. Kuwait is located in the Middle East. Kuwait is a diminutive of an Arabic word meaning "fortress built near water."
After being allied with Iraq during the Iran-Iraq War until its end in 1988 (largely due to the desire for Iraqi protection from Shiite Iran), Kuwait was invaded and annexed by Iraq (under Saddam Hussein) on August 2, 1990. Hussein's primary justifications included a charge that Kuwaiti territory was in fact an Iraqi province, and that annexation was retaliation for "economic warfare" Kuwait had allegedly waged through slant drilling into oil supplies that were in disputed territories. The monarchy was deposed after annexation, and a new Kuwaiti governor was installed by Saddam Hussein.
Kuwait consists mostly of desert, with little altitude difference. Kuwait is the only country in the world with no natural lake or water reservoir. It has nine islands, the largest one being the Bubiyan, which is linked to the mainland by a concrete bridge (after the liberation in 1991 the island was converted into a military base and currently no civilians are allowed in).
Cultural Notes:
The Kuwaiti culture is quite a unique one, well known for its hospitality and generosity. The Kuwaiti culture, just like many other arab cultures, takes great pride in hospitality.
Kuwaitis traditionally greet each other by shaking hands and kissing cheeks. Traditionally men and women do not exchange more than a few words and possibly a handshake to greet each other in order to respect the privacy of the woman. However, it is common for women and men to kiss cheeks especially as relatives or close friends. It is also customary for people greeting each other to ask a long series of questions such as asking about one's health, that of their relatives, their jobs, etc. in order to relax the other person and give a sense of intimacy.
Hospitality in Kuwait is often portrayed through the serving of tea and coffee. It is very uncommon for a guest to enter a house, office, or even some stores without being offered tea or coffee. In Kuwaiti bedouin custom, a guest's refusal of tea, coffee, or such offerings is sometimes viewed as insulting by the host, as it is as if the guest is denying the host's efforts of being hospitable.
Food plays a large part in Kuwaiti culture. The traditional food of Kuwait known as "Machboos" consists mainly of mutton, chicken, or fish placed over or mixed in a large mess of well-cooked and prepared rice, closely resembling the Indian biryani. Curries and sides also compliment the dish which is traditionally eaten using bare hands even though many choose to use western utensils. Food is almost always prepared and served in large amounts and it is extremely common for households to invite guests over to share meals.
Things you should know when travelling to Kuwait
There are credible reports indicating that terrorists may be planning attacks in the near future, possibly against Westerners and/or Western interests.
In light of possible demonstrations in support of Palestinians throughout the Middle East and elsewhere around the world, Canadians should review their security practices, remain alert to the changing situation, exercise appropriate caution, and avoid large gatherings.
Unexploded munitions from the 1991 Gulf War are hazards in rural areas, picnic spots, and beaches. Avoid off-road travel. Children should be closely monitored and counselled not to touch suspicious, unfamiliar objects. Weapons are readily available, and accidental shootings have occurred. Visitors should carry a document identifying their blood type in case an emergency transfusion is required.
The crime rate is low. However, travellers should avoid secluded places or non-residential areas after dark. Any suspicion of being followed or of unexplained loitering should be reported to the local police. Physical and verbal harassment of women is a problem.
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