Fire and rescue services
Call 112.
Medical emergencies
Call 112 or go to a hospital.
Police
Call 112 or visit the nearest police station
Kuwait
Advice levels
What does this mean?Exercise a high degree of caution in Kuwait.
Exercise a high degree of caution in Kuwait due to the threat of terrorism.
Overview
Safety
- The security situation in the Middle East is unpredictable. Conflicts in the Middle East could lead to an increase in tensions elsewhere in the region and may result in airspace closures, flight cancellations and other travel disruptions. Prioritise your safety, monitor events and follow local advice.
- Demonstrations and protest activity may also occur, and local security situations could deteriorate with little notice. Avoid all demonstrations and protests.
- There's a risk of terrorism in Kuwait, including threats against military bases. Maintain a high level of security awareness and be aware of your surroundings. Follow the advice of local authorities.
- Kuwait's crime rate is low. Armed robberies have been reported, notably in Jahra and Jleeb Al-Shuyoukh.
- Driving can be dangerous due to high speeds and reckless driving, especially at night. Avoid driving on unmarked roads.
- Be prepared for extreme weather conditions. Sand and dust storms occur regularly. In the hottest months, between June and September, the temperatures are often above 50°C. Flooding can occur between December and January. Follow the advice of local authorities.
Full travel advice: Safety
Health
- Some medical facilities offer high-quality services, but others don't. Some public hospitals don't accept foreign nationals. If you're seriously ill or injured, you may need to be medically evacuated. Ensure your travel insurance covers this. Medical evacuation can be expensive and hard to organise.
Full travel advice: Health
Local laws
- Kuwaiti authorities may not notify the Australian Embassy if they detain or arrest Australians. Ask a family member, friend or colleague to inform the Embassy as soon as possible.
- It's illegal to buy, sell, import, carry and consume alcohol. Penalties range from fines to imprisonment and deportation. It's also illegal to possess, consume, produce or traffic drugs in Kuwait. Penalties are severe and can include large fines, imprisonment or the death sentence.
- Get professional, local, legal advice for any business or family law matters. Some offences that aren't serious in Australia are very serious in Kuwait.
- Kuwait has strict laws regarding its head of state, the Amir, the Crown Prince and the Prime Minister. It's illegal to challenge or insult the Kuwait leadership any way. It's also illegal to use social media to criticise regional political matters and figures, including the Amir, Crown Prince and the Prime Minister.
- Kuwait has strict laws on relationships and LGBTQIA+ issues. Same-sex relations and impersonating the opposite sex are illegal. Kuwait doesn’t recognise diverse gender identities. It's against the law for unmarried couples to live or stay together in hotel rooms. Public displays of affection between men and women are also illegal.
- Standards of dress and behaviour are conservative. Cover your shoulders and knees and avoid wearing shorts or tight clothing. Take particular care in areas like Jahra and Jleeb Al-Shuyoukh.
Full travel advice: Local laws
Travel
- You'll need a visa to enter Kuwait. Visas on arrival and e-visas are available for Australian citizens. Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. You should contact the nearest Kuwaiti embassy or consulate of Kuwait for the latest details. You may be refused entry into Kuwait if you have an Israeli stamp in your passport.
- The local currency is the Kuwaiti Dinar (KWD). ATMs and electronic payment facilities are widely used. Some banks and shops don’t accept foreign cards.
- Kuwait has unexploded weapons, including landmines, in desert areas and on some beaches. Stay on well-travelled roads. Don't pick up strange objects on beaches.
- Traveling near the Iraq and Saudi Arabia borders is illegal and dangerous without authorisation. Armed guards patrol border areas. Don't travel to Iraq. If you go there despite our advice, make sure you have the correct documents authorising your movements. Only use official border crossings.
- Authorities may prevent you from departing Kuwait if you have unpaid debts or fines.
- Children travelling without a male guardian must present a signed letter of approval from their father before being allowed to leave Kuwait.
Full travel advice: Travel
Local contacts
- The Australian Government aims to provide high quality consular assistance. There are limits to what we can do. Read the Consular Services Charter to understand how we can assist you overseas.
- For consular assistance, contact the Australian Embassy in Kuwait City. The working week is Sunday to Thursday.
- To stay up to date with local information, follow the Embassy's social media accounts.
Full travel advice: Local contacts
Full advice
Safety
Terrorism
Terrorism is a threat worldwide. Terrorist attacks could occur anywhere and at any time. Be alert to possible threats, especially in public places.
There's a risk of terrorism in Kuwait, including threats against military bases. Maintain a high level of security awareness and be aware of your surroundings.
There have been several terrorist attacks in the Gulf region in recent years, including at places visited by foreigners. Take official warnings seriously.
Attacks could occur at any time and targets could include:
- places of worship
- hotels and restaurants
- sporting venues
- military sites
- transport hubs
- crowded public places
- shopping malls and markets
- other locations foreigners may visit
Maintain a high level of security awareness. If there’s a terrorist incident, leave the area if it’s safe to do so and follow the instructions of local authorities.
More information:
Kidnapping
Kidnapping can happen anywhere, anytime, including in destinations that are typically at lower risk. The Australian Government's longstanding policy is that it doesn't make payments or concessions to kidnappers.
More information:
Civil unrest and political tension
The security situation in the region remains unpredictable and could deteriorate with little or no warning.
Monitor local and international media and follow the instructions of local authorities.
Demonstrations and protests
Public protests and events that draw large groups of people can turn violent.
It's illegal for non-Kuwait nationals to protest in Kuwait.
Organisers of demonstrations or public gatherings must obtain approval in advance from the Ministry of Interior (MOI).
Protesters and security forces have clashed previously. Security forces have used water cannons and tear gas to break up protests.
Avoid all protests, demonstrations and large public gatherings.
Be especially alert for protest activity in:
- Areas surrounding Irada Square
- Jahra
During a period of unrest:
- monitor the media and local sources for new threats
- plan your activities to avoid days of national or commemorative significance
- follow the advice of local authorities
- be prepared to change your travel plans
Contact your airline, travel agent or insurer if your travel is disrupted.
More information:
Crime
The overall crime rate in Kuwait is low but it is higher in some areas.
Some travellers have reported being physically and verbally harassed. Some foreigners have reported being followed at night.
Take care if you intend to travel to Jahra, where attackers have used firearms in confrontations. Robberies have occurred in Jleeb Al-Shuyoukh.
To protect yourself from crime:
- be alert to petty thieves while in crowded places
- carry only what you need – leave other valuables in a secure place
- watch your belongings on buses and taxis, especially at night
- don't go out alone after dark or to isolated places, especially on foot
- always keep your vehicle and accommodation locked
- be alert to suspicious behaviour
Sexual Assault
Victims of sexual assault in Kuwait may face arrest, detention or criminal prosecution for having sex outside of marriage and/or adultery.
If you are sexually assaulted in Kuwait, contact the Australian Embassy in Kuwait or the Consular Emergency Centre in Canberra immediately.
While consular officers can't provide legal or medical advice, they can provide a list of English-speaking service providers, such as lawyers and translators, who may be able to help.
More information:
Cyber security
Drink spiking
Methanol poisoning
Extreme weather and natural disasters
Sand and dust storms occur regularly.
It's often very hot and dry in Kuwait, where the hottest months are June, July and August. Temperatures are often above 50°C and rarely drop below 30°C, even at night. High humidity can be expected in August.
Flooding can happen, usually between December and March.
If there's a natural disaster or severe weather:
- secure your passport in a safe location
- monitor local media and other sources such as the Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System
- follow the advice from local authorities
- keep in contact with friends and family.
Health
Travel insurance
Physical and mental health
Medication
Some medications require approval from Kuwait's Ministry of Health.
If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Kuwait by contacting the Kuwaiti Embassy in Australia. Take enough legal medicine for your trip.
Health risks
Air quality
Air pollution levels in Kuwait are often at dangerous levels, increasing the risk of breathing problems.
Dust and sandstorms can be severe and occur throughout the year.
Poor air quality can cause:
- traffic delays and accidents
- flight delays
People who have pre-existing medical conditions, particularly heart and lung conditions, may be especially affected. If you're concerned:
- seek medical advice
- follow advice from local authorities about methods to reduce exposure
- monitor an air quality index
- reduce your exposure
More information:
Medical care
There’s no agreement between Australia and Kuwait for free healthcare. Tourists must pay for all medical care, even if they need to stay in hospital or be evacuated. This can be very expensive. Make sure your travel insurance covers you. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.
The standard of medical facilities in Kuwait varies in government-run and private institutions. You'll be expected to pay in advance for all services. Some hospitals only accept citizens, and some treatments and medicines may not be available to foreigners. Government facilities offer more specialty care services, though wait times are often long and can be difficult to access for non-nationals.
Married women may be required to obtain their husband's permission before some medical procedures.
Psychological and psychiatric services are limited, with hospital-based care only available through government institutions.
If you need a complex procedure or become seriously ill, you may need to be evacuated. Medical evacuation can be very expensive.
Local laws
Local law
Kuwaiti authorities don't normally notify the Australian Embassy if they detain or arrest Australians.
If you are detained, ask the authorities, your family, friend or colleague to inform the Embassy as soon as possible.
More information:
Drugs and alcohol
Possession of illicit drugs and alcohol is illegal. Penalties are severe.
Convictions for possession and trafficking of drugs may result in heavy fines, lengthy jail sentences, deportation or the death penalty.
It is illegal to bring alcohol into Kuwait and possess or consume it in the country.
Public intoxication or driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is punishable by fines, imprisonment, deportation and confiscation of your driving licence.
More information:
Commercial, civil, family and employment law
Australian and Kuwaiti laws are very different. This includes laws about:
- commercial arrangements
- civil matters
- family matters
- employment.
Seemingly minor incidents can result in lengthy legal proceedings. If you have an open case, you may be prevented from leaving the country until it’s resolved.
Some offences that aren't serious in Australia are extremely serious in Kuwait. This includes:
- writing a cheque without enough funds in your account
- not paying your bills.
We can't interfere in commercial and family disputes.
If you're involved in local legal matters:
- seek professional advice
- understand your rights and what you must do under Kuwaiti law.
This is particularly the case for family law matters, including:
- divorce
- child custody
- child support.
Kuwaiti authorities require that documents issued in Australia are both:
- authenticated by DFAT before you leave Australia
- authenticated by officials at the Australian Embassy in Kuwait.
Types of documents you'll need to authenticate include:
- academic (university and secondary school) records
- Police clearance (AFP National Police Check)
- a marriage or birth certificate for a residency permit.
More information:
Other laws
Always carry ID, such as your passport or a Kuwaiti civil identity card.
Authorities conduct regular checks for illegal workers.
It's illegal to:
- challenge or criticise regional political matters and figures, the Kuwait leadership including the Amir, Crown Prince and Prime Minister in any way, including in speech, writing or drawing, or using social media platforms
- import alcohol (also see Drugs and alcohol section above), pork products or pornography
- drive without a valid licence
- drink and drive
- take photos or videos of Government buildings or military sites, oil fields, and people (particularly local women) without permission.
Traffic incidents
If you receive a traffic violation or are involved in an accident, you cannot leave Kuwait until the matter is resolved and relevant fines are paid.
Sex and intimacy laws
It's illegal to:
- have sex outside of marriage
- cohabitate with someone of the opposite sex if unmarried. It's illegal to stay in a hotel room with someone of the opposite sex unless you're married to them. The hotel staff may ask you for a marriage certificate
- engage in intimate public displays of affection.
- de-facto relationships are not recognised in Kuwait
LGBTQIA+ laws
Same-sex relationships and impersonating the opposite sex are illegal. Kuwait doesn't recognise or allow same-sex marriages and rights. Punishments can include fines, imprisonment and deportation.
Rainbow and LGBTQIA+ products are banned in Kuwait. Increased scrutiny and searches of personal belongings have been reported at ports of entry, including confiscation of items bearing these colours.
More information:
Australian laws
Dual nationals
Kuwait doesn't recognise dual nationality. Authorities have revoked people's Kuwaiti citizenship for reasons including dual nationality.
If you're a dual national and authorities arrest or detain you, our ability to deliver consular services may be limited.
Kuwaiti authorities have confiscated the Australian passports of dual citizens. This doesn't deprive you of your Australian citizenship.
If this happens, contact the Australian Embassy. See Local contacts
More information:
Local customs
Kuwait is a Muslim country. Respect local traditions, customs and religious beliefs. Cover your shoulders and knees, avoid wearing shorts or tight clothing and behave modestly in public, government buildings and places of worship.
The Islamic holy month of Ramadan is strictly observed in Kuwait. Take care not to offend others.
During Ramadan, it is illegal to eat, drink or smoke in public during the day. If you are not fasting, avoid these activities around people who are.
Travel
Visas and border measures
Make sure you meet all entry and exit conditions. If you don't, the Australian Government can’t help you.
Visas
You'll need a visa to enter Kuwait.
Visas on arrival and e-visas are available for Australian citizens. To obtain a tourist visa on arrival, you must:
- pay the fee when you arrive at Kuwait International Airport
- have a return ticket
- provide the address of your accommodation in Kuwait
- have a passport valid for at least 6 months
- not have any security restrictions that prevent entry into Kuwait
You can apply for an e-visa at the Ministry of Interior’s Kuwait Visa website.
To apply for employment or residency visas, contact your nearest Embassy of Kuwait.
Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact your nearest Embassy of Kuwait for details about visas, currency and customs rules.
If you overstay your visa, you'll face a large fine or travel ban. Check the expiry date on your visa.
You may be refused entry into Kuwait if you have an Israeli stamp in your passport.
Kuwaiti authorities won’t issue visas in an Australian emergency passport. You can only use an emergency passport to exit Kuwait.
More information:
Other formalities
Authorities may prevent you from departing Kuwait if:
- you have unpaid debts or fines, including traffic or parking fines, utility or telecommunications bills
- you're in a financial dispute
- you're charged with a criminal offence or are under investigation
If you’re employed in the private sector in Kuwait, you must obtain an exit permit before leaving the country. Without the permit you may be prevented from departing.
Authorities enforce travel bans. They can take months to resolve. Seek the advice of a local lawyer.
If you're applying for an employment or residency visa, you'll need to get supporting documents verified before you arrive. See Local laws
Customs officials use strict screening procedures to detect illegal imports. See Local laws
Passport
Validity
Lost or stolen passport
Passport with ‘X’ gender identifier
Money
The local currency is the Kuwaiti Dinar (KWD).
Declare all local and foreign currency equivalent to or over KWD3000 when you arrive. This covers all forms of currency, not only cash.
ATMs are widely available. Credit cards are widely accepted.
Some banks and shops won't accept foreign cards. Ask your bank if your cards will work in Kuwait.
Change currency only at commercial banks and official exchange bureau.
Local travel
Road travel
Driving in Kuwait is dangerous. Road conditions vary.
Driving speeds are very high in Kuwait compared to Australia. Most drivers pay little attention to other road users. Drivers generally ignore road safety rules.
Local authorities are increasingly using speed and radar cameras to monitor drivers and enforce traffic rules. Penalties can include deportation and imprisonment for some offences.
It's illegal to leave the scene of an accident before police arrive. If you have an accident:
- stay with the vehicle and don't move it
- call the police on 112
If you don't pay traffic or parking fines on time, authorities may:
- seize your vehicle
- impose a travel ban that prevents you from leaving Kuwait
Pay any traffic or parking fines as soon as possible. Residents of Kuwait can check for and pay traffic fines via the Sahel application or Ministry of Interior website.
If you must drive in Kuwait:
- check you have adequate insurance
- find out about local traffic laws and practices
More information:
Driving permit
Kuwait has strict requirements for driver's licences.
If you drive without a valid licence, you could be jailed or deported.
If you're a visitor, you can use a valid International Driving Permit (IDP).
Get your IDP before leaving Australia.
If you're a resident in Kuwait, you'll need to obtain a Kuwaiti driver's licence.
If you plan to drive, get advice from a Kuwaiti embassy or consulate.
Taxis
Only use official taxis and limousines. Book transport from a reliable company. Rideshare apps are common.
Some taxis don't use meters, which can result in disputes over the fare. Some taxis only accept cash.
Agree on the fare and form of payment before setting off.
Public transport
Public transport exists in Kuwait but is limited to residential areas rather than tourist destinations.
More information:
Motorcycles
Check if your travel insurance covers you when using a motorbike, quad bike or similar vehicle.
Always wear a helmet.
Air travel
Check Kuwait's air safety profile with the Aviation Safety Network.
More information:
Sea travel
Many sea areas in the Gulf region are under territorial dispute.
There are reports of vessel inspections, detentions and personnel arrests.
Piracy happens in the Gulf. Read the International Maritime Bureau's piracy reports.
More information:
Border crossings
It's illegal and dangerous to travel near the borders with Iraq and Saudi Arabia without authorisation.
Armed guards patrol border areas.
All travel to Iraq is dangerous. Don't go there.
If you travel to Iraq despite our advice, ensure you have the correct documents authorising your movements.
Only use authorised road border crossing points into Iraq and Saudi Arabia.
More information:
Unexploded weapons
Kuwait has unexploded remnants of war, including landmines, in desert areas and on some beaches.
People have been injured after picking up strange metal or plastic objects.
Don't stray from well-travelled roads.
Local contacts
Emergencies
Depending on what you need, contact your:
- family and friends
- travel agent
- insurance provider
- employer
- airline
Fire and rescue services
Call 112.
Medical emergencies
Call 112 or go directly to the hospital.
Police
Call 112 or visit the nearest police station.
Always get a police report when you report a crime.
Few police officers speak English. If you don't speak Arabic, you may need to find an Arabic speaker to help.
Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.
Consular contacts
The Australian Government aims to provide high quality consular assistance. There are limits to what we can do. Read the Consular Services Charter to understand how we can assist you overseas.
For consular assistance, contact the Australian Embassy in Kuwait City.
The working week is Sunday to Thursday.
Australian Embassy, Kuwait City
Dar Al-Awadi Building (12th floor)
Ahmed Al-Jaber Street,
Sharq, Kuwait
Phone: (+965) 2232 2422
Email: consular.kuwaitcity@dfat.gov.au
Website: kuwait.embassy.gov.au
X: @AusAmbKuwait
Facebook: Australian Embassy, Kuwait
Instagram: @AusEmbKuwait
The working week is from Sunday to Thursday.
Check the Embassy website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.
24-hour Consular Emergency Centre
In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:
- +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
- 1300 555 135 in Australia
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