Top 10 Cultural Highlights to Explore in Kuwait

Kuwait: Kuwait is a country that is a blend of tradition and modernity as it is a jewel in the Arabian Gulf. It is a colorful country with a rich cultural background of centuries of trade, Bedouin culture and Islamic practices. With its grand architecture and spectacular museums, Kuwait gives a cultural experience to all travelers with its colorful souks and traditional festivals.

Your Kuwait tourist visa is a must before you decide to travel to the country in search of the cultural wonders of the land. The knowledge of obtaining Kuwait travel visa is the initial step to reach this unusual combination of Arabian hospitality, historical treasures and the modern beauty. When you have your travel arrangements sorted out, here are the ten best cultural attractions you should not miss in Kuwait.

Here are the Top 10 Cultural Highlights to Explore in Kuwait

1. The Great Mosque

The biggest and most significant religious building in Kuwait is the Grand Mosque. The mosque is a masterpiece with its beautiful Islamic architecture, its golden domes, and fine interiors. Tourists who are not Muslims are allowed to visit the mosque by guided tours to understand Islamic customs and the cultural essence of the mosque in Kuwaiti society. When visiting such a holy place, dress decently and observe the traditions.

2. National Kuwait Museum

In order to have a better idea of Kuwaiti heritage, one should visit the Kuwait National Museum. The museum contains interesting displays of archaeology, crafts, ship building and the lifestyle before the oil era. It is an ideal beginning of any cultural tour and provides background and understanding of the historical growth of Kuwait.

3. Tareq Rajab Museum

This well-kept secret of Jabriya is a treasure trove of Islamic art, calligraphy, textiles, jewelry and musical instruments. The museum was opened by Tareq Rajab and his wife Jehan, and displays objects gathered during decades of travel in the Islamic world. It is a peaceful, highly enriching experience to both culture lovers and historians.

4. Souq Al-Mubarakiya

Souq Al-Mubarakiya is one of the oldest and the most traditional markets of Kuwait, it is an experience of the senses of Kuwaiti life. Spices and perfumes, antique jewelry and handmade souvenirs are only a few examples of what this market is a colorful demonstration of Kuwaiti trade culture. Don not miss out on the traditional cuisine such as margoog or grilled zubaidi in the local food court.

5. Sadu House

Sadu House is a cultural organization which aims at preserving the traditions of Bedouin weaving. It is situated by the National Museum and has exhibitions of colorful Sadu textiles, workshops and demonstrations of artisans. The visitors are able to understand the importance of weaving in the nomadic Kuwaiti life and also admire the craft of this complex art.

6. Kuwait Towers

Although the main reason why these iconic towers are famous is due to their architectural beauty and panoramic views, they also reflect the cultural identity of Kuwait, after independence. The Kuwait Towers represent the emergence of the country as a modern Arab state and yet retaining its traditional values. Pay a visit to the observation deck and have your meal at the rotating restaurant to have a complete cultural and visual treat.

7. Failaka Island

To venture into antiquity, to Failaka Island by boat, where there are remains of the Bronze Age and it was also a Greek settlement, under Alexander the Great. See the ruins, visit the small archaeological museum and consider the stratified history of Kuwait. It is a peaceful place where nature and heritage are combined.

8. Al Shaheed Park Cultural Complex

Al Shaheed Park is not only a very beautiful green park in the middle of Kuwait City but also a place of cultural activities. The park contains the Habitat and Remembrance Museums, an amphitheater, art installations and often has exhibitions, poetry readings, and cultural events. It is a contemporary site to feel the changing cultural story of Kuwait.

9. Bayt Lothan

Bayt Lothan was once a traditional Kuwaiti house but it has transformed to be a cultural center that fosters local art and creativity. Whether it is photography and painting exhibitions, music performances and workshops, the center is an excellent location to encounter young Kuwaiti artists and to experience the contemporary culture. Look at the calendar to watch live or learn.

10. Conventional Festivals and Celebrations

Kuwait has various festivals that depict its Islamic and cultural background. Patriotic shows, fireworks, and large parades are celebrated during National Day and Liberation Day (February 25 26). Ramadan and Eid introduce a spiritual mood with all the special foods and night markets. By either taking part or attending these festivals, visitors will get a real taste of the culture.

Conclusion

Kuwait might not be the first place one would consider when planning a cultural trip, but it is a goldmine of culture and contemporary cultural manifestations. Exploring the ruins of the ancient cities, experiencing Islamic art, strolling the crowded souks, or observing the local artists at work, Kuwait is a place of a rich and unexpected cultural experience.

In order to unleash these experiences, the most important thing is to obtain your Kuwait tourist visa before you travel. In case you are confused about how to obtain Kuwait travel visa, a number of services are available now, with streamlined applications being made online, frequently in cooperation with certified visa consultants. Having a visa in your pocket and a cultural itinerary in mind, you are ready to experience the genuine heart of Kuwait.