SOCIAL SCENE | TRANSPORTATION IN KUWAIT| ACCOMMODATION | EMERGENCY CONTACTS

SOCIAL SCENE

Handshaking is the customary form of greeting. It is quite likely that a visitor will be invited to a Kuwaitis home, but entertaining is also conducted in hotels and restaurants. A small gift promoting the company, or representing ones native country, is always welcome.

The visitor will notice that most Kuwaitis wear the national dress of long white dishdashes and white headcloths, and that many women wear yashmaks. It is important for women to dress modestly according to Islamic law. Men do not usually wear shorts in public and should not go shirtless. All other Islamic rules and customs must be respected.

Convicted users of narcotics can expect to receive a sentence of up to five years imprisonment, plus a heavy fine. No Smoking signs are posted in many shops.

It is greatly appreciated if visitors learn at least a few words of Arabic. Tipping: A service charge of 15 per cent is usually added to bills in hotels, restaurants and clubs. Otherwise ten per cent is acceptable.

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TRANSPORTATION IN KUWAIT

Offers statistical details on the railways, highways, waterways, ports & harbors, airports, and other facts on transportation in Kuwait.

Car Hire
Self-drive is available. If you produce an International Driving Permit, the rental company will, within five days, grant a temporary local licence valid for one month

Taxis
Taxis run 24 hours a day and rental cars are readily available throughout the country. At the time of writing, there is a fixed rate of KD 4 from the airport into the city. Drivers may not speak English so it is a good idea to know the name of your destination. In the city, there are two types of taxi. Orange taxis work a fixed route and pick up passengers anywhere along that route. These taxis may be shared. Call taxis pick up passengers on request only. Fares for a journey of around 15km in a private taxi should be in the region of KD2.500 but the taxi company will be able to tell you the exact cost of the taxi when you book.

Public Bus Transportation
Kuwait Transport Company operates a nationwide service which is both reliable and inexpensive.

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ACCOMMODATION

Institution Accommodation Facilities
Hotels range from deluxe to first and second class. Many top hotels in Kuwait City feature sport complexes, restaurants and shopping malls. Serviced apartments, some with hotel-style room service, are also available. Prices are generally high. All rates are subject to a 15 per cent service charge.