Greetings! We recently returned from a trip to Kuwait (country #85), where we were able to experience Kuwait City. Below, you will find information and photos from our trip.
Interesting Fact: In 1991, the Iraqis tried to burn Kuwait Towers during the Gulf War (Desert Storm), but because the structures are made of concrete, they did not burn.
The State of Kuwait lies at the tip of the Persian Gulf on the northern edge of Eastern Arabia in Western Asia. Its capital is Kuwait City, where a majority of the 4.7 million people live. Seventy-four percent (74%) of Kuwaitis practice the religion of Islam. Kuwait is 6000sqmi/17,700sqkm, most of which is desert. In the summer, it can get up to 52 degrees Celsius (125 degrees Fahrenheit).
Oil was discovered in Kuwait in 1938, with crude oil being exported for the first time in 1946. The country was subsequently modernized over the next 36 years with income from oil production. It continues to have the 6th largest oil reserves in the world, making Kuwait the fifth richest country in the world (based on gross national income per capita). People come to Kuwait to work in oil, military, or finance, the last of which is the largest sector.
Kuwait was invaded by Iraq in 1990 under Saddam Hussein, and the invasion ended in 1991 after military intervention by several countries, led by the United States. The Al-Qurain Martyr’s Museum (above) is the former home of Martyr Bader Al-Eedan, and was the site of a 10-hour battle between invading Iraqi troops and Kuwaiti Freedom Fighters (called Al-Massilah group). This structure is a memorial to those who lost their lives during the Iraqi invasion (1991).
Kuwait is considered to be an emirate, which means that it is led by an Emir (head of state), and the ruling family is in charge of the political system. The Emir is chosen from one of two families, based on evaluation of who would be best for the job, and often alternating between the families. Kuwait also has a Parliament, the governing body of which makes most of the decisions for the country, and limits the role of the Emir. Overall, it is considered to be a “unitary parliamentary semi-constitutional emirate.”
While it was a short visit, our time in Kuwait was very informative, and it is a place that was surprisingly beautiful (and very Western, as evidenced by some of the businesses depicted above).
Until next time, take care and be well…