🌍 Overview
As a digital nomad, I’ve had the pleasure of exploring various cities around the world, but Kuwait City, Kuwait, has left an indelible mark on my heart. This vibrant city, with its rich history and culture, is an excellent choice for remote workers looking for a unique experience. With a Nomad Score of 65/100, Kuwait City offers a great balance of affordability, internet speed, and cultural immersion. As a Kuwait City digital nomad, you’ll find that the city’s warm hospitality, delicious cuisine, and lively nightlife make it an attractive destination.
Kuwait City’s compact size and relatively low population of 60,064 people make it easy to navigate and get around. The city’s Safety Index is 71.15/100, which is relatively high compared to other major cities. English is widely spoken, making it easy for foreigners to communicate and integrate into the local community. With its unique blend of traditional and modern architecture, Kuwait City is a fascinating place to explore, and its culture score of 70/100 reflects the city’s strong heritage and traditions.
🏘️ Best Neighborhoods for Digital Nomads
When it comes to choosing the best neighborhoods for digital nomads in Kuwait City, there are several options to consider. Here are a few of my favorites:
- Salmiya: This upscale neighborhood is known for its modern amenities, high-rise buildings, and stunning sea views. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Salmiya can range from 200-300 KWD (approximately $660-$990 USD) per month. The area is also home to several coworking spaces, including the popular Salmiya Coworking Space.
- Hawalli: Located just north of Salmiya, Hawalli is a bustling neighborhood with a mix of old and new buildings. The area is known for its vibrant nightlife, with several bars and clubs along the Hawalli Street. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Hawalli can range from 150-250 KWD (approximately $495-$825 USD) per month.
- Sharq: This historic neighborhood is home to several landmarks, including the Kuwait Towers and the Grand Mosque. Sharq is a great area for digital nomads who want to experience the city’s rich culture and history. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Sharq can range from 100-200 KWD (approximately $330-$660 USD) per month.
- Abdullah Al-Salem: This neighborhood is known for its affordable housing options and is a popular choice for expats and digital nomads. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Abdullah Al-Salem can range from 80-150 KWD (approximately $264-$495 USD) per month.
Cost of Living Breakdown
The cost of living in Kuwait City is relatively high compared to other cities in the region. However, with a little planning and research, digital nomads can find affordable options for accommodation, food, and transportation. Here’s a breakdown of the typical costs:
- Rent: The average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Kuwait City is around 200-300 KWD (approximately $660-$990 USD).
- Food: Eating out in Kuwait City can range from 5-20 KWD (approximately $16-$66 USD) per meal. Groceries can cost around 50-100 KWD (approximately $165-$330 USD) per week for basic items.
- Transportation: A monthly public transportation pass can cost around 10-20 KWD (approximately $33-$66 USD). Taxis are also widely available and can cost around 5-10 KWD (approximately $16-$33 USD) per ride.
- Coworking: The cost of coworking spaces in Kuwait City can range from 50-100 KWD (approximately $165-$330 USD) per month for a hot desk.
Internet & Coworking
Kuwait City has a relatively fast internet speed of 47 Mbps, making it easy for digital nomads to stay connected and productive. There are several coworking spaces and cafes throughout the city that offer reliable internet and a comfortable working environment. Some popular options include:
- Salmiya Coworking Space: This modern coworking space offers hot desks, private offices, and meeting rooms. Prices start from 50 KWD (approximately $165 USD) per month.
- Hawalli Coworking Space: This coworking space is located in the heart of Hawalli and offers a range of amenities, including high-speed internet, printing, and scanning. Prices start from 30 KWD (approximately $99 USD) per month.
- The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf: This popular coffee shop has several locations throughout the city and offers free Wi-Fi and a comfortable working environment.
Kuwait City has a growing digital nomad community, with several meetups and events taking place throughout the year. Some popular groups include:
- Kuwait City Digital Nomads: This Facebook group has over 1,000 members and is a great place to connect with other digital nomads, find accommodation, and get tips on the best places to eat and drink.
- Expats in Kuwait: This group is for expats and digital nomads living in Kuwait and offers a range of resources, including job postings, accommodation listings, and social events.
- Kuwait City Meetup: This group hosts regular meetups and events for digital nomads and expats, including language exchange, hiking, and cultural activities.
Culture & Lifestyle
Kuwait City is a culturally rich and diverse city, with a unique blend of traditional and modern influences. As a digital nomad, you’ll have the opportunity to experience the city’s vibrant culture, including its delicious cuisine, stunning architecture, and lively nightlife. Some popular local customs include:
- Ramadan: During the holy month of Ramadan, Kuwait City comes alive with festive lights, decorations, and traditional foods. Digital nomads can experience the city’s vibrant culture and hospitality during this special time.
- Eid al-Fitr: This Islamic holiday is celebrated with great enthusiasm in Kuwait City, with traditional foods, decorations, and festivities.
- Kuwaiti cuisine: The local cuisine is a delicious blend of Middle Eastern and Indian flavors, with popular dishes including machboos, ummalia, and shawarma.
Kuwait City offers a range of visa options for digital nomads, including:
- Tourist visa: This visa is valid for 90 days and can be obtained on arrival at the airport.
- Residence visa: This visa is required for digital nomads who plan to stay in Kuwait City for more than 90 days. The application process can take several weeks, and applicants must provide proof of income, health insurance, and a police certificate.
💡 Practical Tips
As a digital nomad in Kuwait City, here are some practical tips to keep in mind:
- SIM cards: You can purchase a SIM card from several providers, including Zain and Ooredoo. Prices start from 5 KWD (approximately $16 USD) per month.
- Transportation: Taxis are widely available, but you can also use ride-hailing apps like Uber and Careem.
- Safety: Kuwait City is generally a safe city, but it’s always a good idea to take precautions, especially at night.
- Weather: Kuwait City has a hot desert climate, with temperatures often reaching 45°C (113°F) during the summer months. Be sure to stay hydrated and take breaks in the shade.
