Kuwait

Kuwait

Kuwait, officially the State of Kuwait, is a country located in Western Asia, on the northeastern edge of the Arabian Peninsula. It is bordered by Iraq to the north and west, Saudi Arabia to the south, and has a coastline along the Persian Gulf. Kuwait is known for its oil-rich economy, modern cities, and strategic location in the Gulf region.

Kuwait covers an area of approximately 17,818 square kilometres and has a population of around 4.4 million people as of 2025–2026.

Key Country Information

  • Capital City: Kuwait City
  • Head of State (Emir): Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah
  • Head of Government (Prime Minister): Ahmad Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah
  • Official Language: Arabic
  • Currency: Kuwaiti Dinar (KWD)
  • International Dialing Code: +965

Population and Economy

Kuwait has a population of approximately 4.4 million. Its economy is heavily dependent on oil, with petroleum accounting for over half of GDP and most of its export revenues. The government has been investing in diversification, including finance, real estate, and infrastructure projects.

Employment opportunities for foreign nationals are abundant in sectors such as oil and gas, healthcare, construction, finance, education, and domestic services. Kuwait relies heavily on expatriate workers, making up a significant portion of the workforce.

International Memberships

  • United Nations (UN): Member since 1963
  • Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC): Member since 1981
  • Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC): Member since 1960
  • World Trade Organization (WTO): Member since 1995

Living and Working in Kuwait

Foreign nationals require a work visa and residence permit to work legally in Kuwait. Sponsorship by a Kuwaiti employer (kafeel system) is generally required. Salaries and benefits vary depending on the sector and employer, with oil, finance, and managerial roles offering higher compensation.

The cost of living is moderate to high, particularly in housing and education. English is widely used in business, government, and expatriate communities.

Summary

Kuwait is a wealthy Gulf nation with an oil-driven economy and strong demand for foreign workers. It offers employment opportunities across various sectors, with legal pathways for expatriates. As a member of the UN, GCC, and OPEC, Kuwait plays a strategic role in regional and international affairs.