Kuwait’s super-rich make up a substantial portion on the population. Consequently, leisure activities in the country tend to cater to the wealthy.
In terms of places to socialise, Kuwait relies on malls and big hotels to fill the vacuum where bars and cafes would otherwise exist. Catering largely towards business travellers on short trips, leisure activities tend to be less on the cultural side, and more geared towards spending. Nevertheless, there are a few places of interest that should be on your itinerary.
Accessed via a ferry from the mainland, Failaka Island contains several ancient UNESCO world heritage archaeological sites and makes a worthwhile day trip. Sadly, much of the island's ancient heritage sustained a lot of damage during the Iraqi invasion in 1990. You can still see remnants of tanks and other wartime hardware strewn across the island.
When news of the Iraqi invasion broke in Kuwait, the Tareek Rajab’s collection was immediately bricked-up inside the current building. Astonishingly, the Iraqis never attempted to get inside, and the collection remains intact. Make sure you don’t miss this wonderful collection of art and antiquities which includes important examples glassware, jewellery and metalwork.
Combine lunch with a trip to the Souk Marbarakia. This atmospheric market serves huge portions of local food in a convivial atmosphere that gives you a real feel for Kuwait’s traditional side.
The symbol of Kuwait, these towers have been around since 1979 and rise to a height of 187m. Make sure you go up to the observation deck where you can get fantastic views over the city.
Elements of Kuwait’s national heritage are explained in this museum through the medium of over 2,000 objects. Outside the museum there’s a replica of a huge dhow destroyed by the Iraqis.