Kuwait City, Kuwait Report of what it's like to live there - 07/29/10
Personal Experiences from Kuwait City, Kuwait
Background:
1. Was this post your first expatriate experience? If not, what other cities have you lived in as an expat?
First expat experience.
2. What is your home city/country? How long is the trip to post from there, with what connections? How easy/difficult is it to travel to this city/country?
Atlanta, GA via Dubai or Amsterdam. 15-16 hours.
3. How long have you lived here?
3 years.
4. What brought you to this city (e.g. diplomatic mission, business, NGO, military, teaching, retirement, etc.)?
Wife of Govt. Contractor.
Housing, Groceries & Food:
1. What is your housing like? What are typical housing sizes, locations, and commute times for expatriates?
Efficiency/Medium/Large flats (apartments). We have a 4bd/3.5 bath with maid's quarters. Bedrooms are huge. Houses are also large if you are so lucky to live in a villa. But, sadly, no closet space. Commute times average 30 min-1hr depending on traffic. The earlier the better.
2. How would you describe the availability and cost of groceries and household supplies relative to your home country?
The Sultan Center has at least 4 locations. They import American products. So if one doesn't have something, you might have to travel to another, and there is a good chance they will have it. Otherwise, their are Co-ops. But remember, imports are 2.5 times what you'd pay for in the States. You can also order from Netgrocer. Just don't try and order alcohol.
3. What household or grocery items do you wish you had shipped to post?
Bedsheets, vanilla extract, baking soda, cookware, Orville Redenbacher popcorn, Pampers, hair products.
4. What typical restaurants, food delivery services, and/or takeout options are popular among expatriates?
All the fast food places you can think of are here: Popeye's, KFC, Domino's, Mc Donald's, Burger King, Chili's, Ruby Tuesday's. Hey, you will never go hungry here, that's for sure. Kuwaities LOVE to eat.
5. Are there any unusual problems with insects or other infestations in housing?
No problems.
Daily Life:
1. How do you send and receive your letters and package mail? Are local postal facilities adequate?
APO.
2. What is the availability and cost of household help, and what types of help are typically employed by expatriates?
Lots of Sri Lankans/Filipinos/Indians/Ethiopians/Indoneasans. The rates vary, but average price is about $400 a month for a live-in. More expensive if they live out. Unfortunately Americans/Brits are charged nearly double what the locals pay for agency fees.
3. What kinds of gyms or other sports/workout facilities are available? Are they expensive?
Many gyms! (segregated and expensive)
4. Are credit cards widely accepted and safe to use locally? Are ATMs common and do you recommend using them? Are they safe to use?
No problems.
5. What English-language religious services are available locally?
All denominations are here. They are open -- just respect their religion.
6. English-language newspapers and TV available? Cost?
Yes. Cable is comparable to the US rates. I'm pretty happy with my service: Orbit/Showtime.
7. How much of the local language do you need for daily living? Are local language classes/tutors available and affordable?
Most everyone knows some English. It helps to learn a few basic words.
8. Would someone with physical disabilities have difficulties living in this city?
This isn't the States. A few places cater to wheelchair-bound people. I think this is because of the large number of horrendous car-accident victims who survive.
Transportation:
1. Are local buses, trams, trains or taxis safe and affordable?
Taxis are cheap. Only third-world nationals ride the buses. Most seem to have only men on board. That says enough.
2. What kind of car do you recommend bringing to post, given the terrain, availability of parts, burglary/carjacking risks, etc.? What kind of car do you advise not to bring?
Most people either have a company vehicle or lease a car. Most people drive SUVs because of the roads and crazy traffic. Gas is 67 cents a gallon! BTW-you're likely to see all your dream cars here.
Phone & Internet:
1. Is high-speed home Internet access available? How long does it typically take to install it after arrival?
Yes. Zain is great. Cost is the same as in the States.
2. Do you have any recommendations regarding mobile phones? Did you keep your home-country plan or use a local provider?
Bring an unlocked phone if you want to have a BlackBerry or I-phone. They are way too expensive here. Otherwise, there are a few good service providers. Regular phones are not too pricey.
Pets:
1. Are qualified veterinarians and/or good kennel services available? Do animals need to be quarantined upon entry to the country? Are there other considerations regarding pets that are particular to this country?
2. Quality pet care available (vets & kennels)?
Yes. There are a few pet organizations. Sadly, Kuwaitis typically abuse pets.
Employment & Volunteer Opportunities:
1. What types of jobs do most expatriate spouses/partners have? Locally based or telecommuting? Full-time or part-time? Can you comment on local salary scales?
Some. If you have a degree in anything, you can teach. (I hear)
2. What is the typical dress code at work and in public places? Is formal dress ever required?
Business casual/normal business attire, depending on where you work. Women dress modestly. Well....sort of. Tanks are ok, shorts/mini-skirts are not, unless your legs are covered with tights. Interesting, huh? You can show your shape, but you are limited in showing your skin. Kuwaitis are very fashionable. Women dress up just to go to the mall -- wearing Gucci pumps and Prada bag with an Abaya (traditional dress) decorated with rhinestones.
Health & Safety:
1. Are there personal security concerns to be aware of at this post? Please describe.
None.
2. Are there any particular health concerns? What is the quality of available medical care? What medical conditions typically require medical evacuation?
Many people develop allergies/asthma because of the sand. This is inland. You see many people wearing masks outdoors. Healthcare, at both the International clinic and the government hospital, is excellent. Unfortunately, it looks as though it has not been updated since 1950, and there are no rooms: just wards with no tv. But they don't scrimp on service, especially for americans/brits. Every citizen here has medical care.
3. What is the air quality like at post (good/moderate/bad)? Are there seasonal air quality issues? Does the air quality have an impact on health?
Unhealthy air quaility due to random dust storms.
4. What is the overall climate: is it extremely hot or cold, wet or dry, at any time of year, for example?
It can get as high as 140 degrees in late spring/summer months. Lows in the evening are still in the 100's at times. Winter can get chilly, especially early morning, if you work further towards the the desert. Bring a light winter jacket.
Schools & Children:
1. What is the availability of international schools? What has been your general experience with them, if any?
Decent schools, though some people complain.
2. What accommodations do schools make for special-needs kids?
3. Are preschools available? Day care? Are these expensive? What has been your experience with them, if any? Do the schools provide before- and/or after-school care?
Lots of nurseries. Some are better than others.
4. Are local sports classes and/or activities available for kids?
Yes-although the Kuwaitis normally are not very active people. There is Youth Soccer & Rugby.
Expat Life:
1. What is the relative size of the expatriate community? How would you describe overall morale among expatriates?
More expats here than Kuwaities themselves.
2. Morale among expats:
Again, if you try to be social (and open minded) there are lots of activities and events going on. Of course, there are the people who complain (they probably did the same thing at their home country). Some people just leave the country every chance they get, because flights are cheap.
3. What are some typical ways to socialize, either with local people or with other expatriates? Are there groups or clubs that you can recommend?
Kuwaities hold events and private parties. Many people entertain in their homes. BTW, if you are invited to a Kuwaiti dinner party, don't expect to eat until MIDNIITE! They party all nite too!
4. Is this a good city for single people? For couples? For families? Why or why not?
It is better for families, as mentioned above. But if you are the social type, there are enough activities.
5. Is this a good city for LGBT expatriates? Why or why not?
I've seen cross-dressers and quite a few gay men (and some women too.) It's underground, but they definitely have a gay scene. Men hold hands here, but they're not gay.
6. Are there problems with ethnic, race/racial minorities or religious prejudices? Gender equality?
If you're brown, you pretty much blend in. Most people are respected. Sadly, however, third-world country nationals have a much harder time. Women are not well respected in general. Men rule here.
7. What have been the highlights of your time in this country? Best trips or experiences?
Getting involved in various social events has opened many doors. For example: Ahmadi Music Group, PAWS, British Ladies' Society, British Society, Kuwait Scorpions Rugby for Adults, Kuwait Saracens Rugby for Children.
8. What are some interesting/fun things to do in the area? Can you recommend any “hidden gems"?
All types of water sports. Malls are outstanding. Rugby/Softball/Diving Clubs/Music. No niteclubs. Only hotels and private functions.
9. Is this a "shopping post"? Are there interesting handicrafts, artwork, antiques, or other items that people typically buy there?
Rugs, custom-made gold jewelry, custom clothing (for cheap). Also, fine cuisine and all sorts of trinkets.
10. What are the particular advantages of living in this city?
Great for families and singles if you are social. Kuwaities LOVE children-so much that they spoil them rotten. Store clerks will even watch your kids while you shop! Many hotels have sitters (for a small fee) so you can go out and party with the grown-ups! How cool is that? In less than an hour you can get from one border to the next. You'll see a lot in a short time. Other destinations are just a hop away, and it is not expensive to get to them.
11. Can you save money?
Uh......you CAN if you don't: travel, shop or dine out. But that's what keeps you going.
Words of Wisdom:
1. Knowing what you know now, would you still move to this city?
Yes, but three years is enough. I am ready to move on. I've met quite a few people who have settled here, though. Over 10+ yrs. (They have a business here -- tax free...hello?)
2. If you move here, you can leave behind your:
memories of American news media "distorted" portrayal of the Middle East! Also your thoughts on defensive driving -- this place is like nothing in the States. Also most of your clothes-you will be shopping a lot.
3. But don't forget your:
manners.
4. Do you recommend any books or movies about this city/country for those who are interested in learning more?
5. Recommended movies/DVDs related to this city:
6. Do you have any other comments?
Prepare yourself for the dangerous driving here. That's the only real THREAT here. No courtesy what-so-ever! You're likely to see at least 2 accidents per day. (Maybe a deadly one once a week.) Also, not seeing enough "green" starts to get to people after 3 months. Alcohol is "forbidden" in Kuwait. Notice the quotation marks around "forbidden" ? Only if you're invited to one of the embassies here can you drink openly on the premises. Otherwise contractors are told "fly to Bahrain/Dubai" or where ever you need to go if you just need to have that sip. Please don't try and ship it!! You've been warned. I've traveled to other gulf states and have felt perfectly safe. Again, PLEASE don't believe the media's portrayal of this region. I'd personally like to try living in some of the other places I've visited. Make the best of your post!
