📖 About Kuwait

Kuwait is a wealthy Gulf state at the head of the Persian Gulf, transformed from pearling and trading port to oil-rich nation. With approximately 4.3 million people (though only about 1.4 million are citizens), this small country holds roughly 6% of the world's oil reserves. The 1990 Iraqi invasion and subsequent liberation remain defining events in national consciousness.

Kuwait City dominates the nation; gleaming towers, shopping malls, and cultural institutions rise from the desert. The iconic Kuwait Towers symbolize the nation. Pre-oil heritage survives in traditional souks and dhow harbors. The country maintains one of the region's more open political systems with an elected parliament.

Kuwait offers visitors Gulf oil wealth culture, modern architecture, traditional markets, and insight into a nation that experienced invasion and liberation within recent memory.

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💼 Economy & Culture

Kuwait's economy depends overwhelmingly on oil—petroleum accounts for roughly 90% of government revenue and 90% of export earnings. The Kuwait Investment Authority manages vast sovereign wealth accumulated from oil. Government employment absorbs most Kuwaiti citizens; foreign workers fill private sector and service jobs. Economic diversification efforts aim to reduce oil dependence, developing finance, trade, and tourism sectors.

Kuwaiti culture blends Arab and Gulf traditions with cosmopolitan influences from its trading history. Islam shapes daily life and law. Arabic is official; English is widely spoken. Traditional hospitality, majlis gatherings, and Bedouin heritage remain important. Women have more rights than in some neighboring states. The diwaniya (social gathering) tradition continues. Food blends Gulf, Indian, and Lebanese influences. The expatriate majority creates diversity but limited integration.

📜 History

Kuwait was founded in the 18th century by settlers from central Arabia. The Al-Sabah family has ruled since 1752. British protection began in 1899; Kuwait became a British protectorate. The pre-oil economy depended on pearling, fishing, and trade. Oil discovery in 1938 (commercial production from 1946) transformed the nation.

Independence came in 1961; Iraqi threats were deterred by British troops. Oil wealth funded rapid development and generous welfare. Iraq invaded in August 1990; Coalition forces liberated Kuwait in February 1991. The invasion's trauma and liberation remain central to national identity. Reconstruction followed; modern Kuwait emerged. Today's Kuwait balances oil wealth, regional stability concerns, and gradual social reform within a constitutional monarchy framework.