The State of Kuwait (Arabic: الكويت ) is a small constitutional monarchy on the coast of the Arabian Gulf. The name is a diminutive of an Arabic word meaning "fortress built near water. Since ancient times, Kuwait has served as the gateway to the Middle East because of its geographical location. Kuwait has drawn upon the accumulated wisdom of countries around the world to power its own growth. In a few decades, after the discovery of oil, a nation of fishermen and traders has transformed into one of the richest and developed nations in the world -- offering state-of-the-art amenities, secure infrastructural facilities and technical excellence -- and is respected around the world.
The Kuwaitis' pride in their history, heritage and national progress has given rise to an identity which is uniquely Kuwaiti. An identity which is worthy of emulation by all nations in the world.
The centuries have changed; the traditions have not. The country has modernized, but its people's links with their heritage are as strong as ever. Kuwait's wealth -- Black Gold -- may be buried underground, but its spirit is still vibrantly free and aliveThe official language of the country is Arabic, but English is well spoken by the majority.
Kuwait 's time is GMT + 3hours
Due to the location of Kuwait in the Sahara geographical region, the weather of the country is characterized by long, hot and dry summers and short, warm and sometimes rainy winters. In March-April, the weather often pleasant, with temperature ranging from 24-29 o C during the day, with nights being a little cooler.
The unit of currency is the Kuwait Dinar (KD): KD1 = 1,000 fils. The denominations of bank notes are: KD20, 10, 5, 1, 0.500 and 0.250). KD1 is equal to approximately US$3.3.
Nearly all nationalities, except GCC citizens, require visas to enter Kuwait . An application for a visa must be sponsored by a Kuwaiti individual or company. Technically, the visa application is made by the sponsor who is responsible for the visitor while s/he is in Kuwait . Foreigners who desire to visit Kuwait for a short period need a visitor's permit to be procured by the applicant's sponsor .
