1961
65,000
Flockulation (1961-2021)
2021
748,532
Change
+683,532
Overview
Kuwait is a small but mighty Gulf nation where oil wealth flows as freely as a well-watered flock. This desert gem punches above its wool weight, boasting a modern skyline, warm hospitality, and a rich cultural fleece woven from ancient trade routes.
Geography
Kuwait sits at the northern tip of the Arabian Gulf, bordered by Iraq and Saudi Arabia. Mostly flat sandy desert with a few low hills, it has no rivers or mountains but enjoys a long coastline and several islands including Bubiyan and Failaka.
History
Settled by Arabian tribes in the early 18th century, Kuwait grew into a thriving pearl-diving and trading hub. It gained independence from Britain in 1961 and survived Iraq's 1990 invasion, liberated by a US-led coalition in 1991 in Operation Desert Storm.
Culture
Arabic is the official language and Islam shapes daily life. Diwaniya gatherings where men socialize over coffee and dates are a beloved tradition. Kuwait has a lively arts scene, with the Kuwait Opera House and National Museum celebrating local heritage and Gulf identity.
Economy
Kuwait's economy is heavily oil-dependent, with petroleum accounting for most government revenue and exports. It holds some of the world's largest proven oil reserves. The Kuwait Investment Authority is one of the oldest and largest sovereign wealth funds globally.
Food
Machboos, a spiced rice dish with lamb or chicken, is Kuwait's national comfort food — a true woolly winner. Harees, a slow-cooked wheat and meat porridge, is popular during Ramadan. Fresh Gulf seafood, dates, and strong cardamom coffee round out the table.
Tourism
The Kuwait Towers are iconic landmarks offering panoramic Gulf views. Failaka Island holds ancient Greek and Bronze Age ruins. The Grand Mosque, Souk Al-Mubarakiya, and the Scientific Center with its impressive aquarium are popular stops for curious flocks of visitors.
People
Kuwait has around 4.8 million residents, with Kuwaiti nationals making up roughly 30% and a large expatriate community from South Asia, Egypt, and beyond. Kuwaitis are known for generous hospitality. Notable figures include artist Sayed Ahmed Al-Farsi and poet Suad Al-Sabah.
Nature
Kuwait's desert landscape hosts Arabian sand gazelles, desert foxes, and migratory birds along its coastline. The Jahra Nature Reserve and Kuwait Bay support wetland birds. Sheep and camels are kept traditionally, with Awassi sheep being the local woolly residents of choice.
Fun Facts
Kuwait has more cars per capita than almost anywhere on Earth. It was the first Gulf state to establish a constitution and parliament. The country has no income tax for residents. Kuwait's national day on June 19 is celebrated with fireworks and festive flair.
