Safety and security
Terrorism
There is a threat of terrorism.
Despite heightened security measures and counter-terrorism operations led by Kuwaiti authorities, there is an ongoing threat of attacks at or near foreign military installations and places of worship, particularly mosques. Heightened security measures, such as increased police presence and checkpoints, are typically employed during significant religious events at Shia sites.
Targets could also include:
- government buildings
- schools
- airports and other transportation hubs and networks
- public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners
Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places.
Crime
Petty crime
Petty crime occurs sometimes, including:
- pickpocketing
- bag snatching
- ATM and credit card theft
Theft particularly occurs in crowded public areas such as:
- popular tourist areas, including lookouts
- buses, trains, bus and train stations, and airports
- hotel lobbies
- restaurants, including outdoor seating areas
- outdoor markets and shopping malls
During your trip:
- keep your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, in a secure place
- do not show signs of affluence or wear expensive jewellery
- do not carry large sums of cash or valuables unnecessarily
- be aware of your surroundings, especially in busy tourist areas
- be extra cautious when withdrawing cash from ATMs
- stay in accommodations with adequate security measures
Violent crime
Although rare, violent crime has occurred, namely:
- burglaries
- murders
- sexual and physical assaults
- vehicle break-ins
Be extra cautious in the Jleeb Al-Shuyoukh area due to the high crime rate. The area is densely populated and characterized by poorer economic conditions compared to other areas of Kuwait City, which can lead to violence and street crime.
During your stay:
- be aware of your surroundings at all times
- avoid walking alone out after dark
- avoid isolated areas
- pay attention to people walking behind you
- do not resist an attack
Fraud
Cybercrime
Cybercrime, malware attacks and online extortion occur frequently in Kuwait.
Criminals can compromise public Wi-Fi networks to steal personal data or credit information.
Criminals can monitor social media and listen to your phone conversations.
- Avoid making purchases on unencrypted websites
- Be cautious when posting information or photos on social media
- Be particularly vigilant when contacting or meeting individuals known only over the Internet
Telephone scams
There has been a significant increase in foreigners and locals receiving calls from scammers claiming to be local authorities or financial institutions. Scams may be quite sophisticated, and the caller may try to collect personal information or request a fund transfer to resolve administrative or customs issues.
Do not send any money or personal information in this type of situation.
Useful links
- Overseas fraud
- Cyber security while travelling
Unexploded ordnance
Unexploded ordnance from the 1991 Gulf War poses hazards in the desert region near the border with Iraq.
- Be extremely vigilant in remote areas
- Stay on main and paved roads
- Only cross at official border crossings
- Pay attention to signs indicating the possible presence of unexploded ordnance
If you encounter unexploded ordnance:
- do not get close to or touch them
- move away immediately
- contact local authorities
Demonstrations
Demonstrations are permitted and occur in Kuwait, but demonstrators must obtain prior authorization from local authorities. They may take place in response to local or regional developments. Demonstrations are only authorized at Al Irada Square in Kuwait City.
It is illegal for foreigners to take part in demonstrations. You could be arrested and face deportation for participating in demonstrations.
Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.
- Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
- Follow the instructions of local authorities
- Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations
Mass gatherings (large-scale events)
Border crossings
You must obtain a “green permit” from the border control department of the Ministry of Interior of Kuwait to be authorized access to the border area with Iraq.
The border between Kuwait and Iraq is heavily guarded and there are several checkpoints.
You should only use official border crossings to and from Kuwait. Kuwaiti officials consider other crossings illegal.
2SLGBTQI+ persons
2SLGBTQI+ persons are frequently discriminated against and harassed based on their actual or perceived sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression or sex characteristics.
2SLGBTQI+ persons have been verbally, physically and sexually abused, including by police officers.
If you are detained by local authorities due to your actual or perceived sexual orientation, gender identity or any other sexual characteristic, you should report it immediately to the Embassy of Canada to Kuwait, in Kuwait City.
Kuwaiti law criminalizes sexual acts and relationships between persons of the same sex. Convicted offenders could face up to 7 years of imprisonment.
In 2022, the Constitutional Court of Kuwait decriminalized the “imitation of the opposite sex.” However, 2SLGBTQI+ persons could be arrested or deported for violating public morals or the public interest.
2SLGBTQI+ persons should carefully consider the risks of travelling to Kuwait.
Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics
Women’s safety
Women travelling alone may be subject to some forms of harassment, verbal abuse or physical assault.
Local authorities may not respond adequately to reports of sexual violence and harassment. The notion of sexual consent may differ substantially from the Canadian context.
If you are the victim of a sexual assault, you should report it immediately to the Embassy of Canada to Kuwait, in Kuwait City.
- Avoid walking alone, especially after dark
- Avoid dark alleys and isolated areas
- Always meet new acquaintances in a secure and familiar location
Advice for women travellers
Roads
Road conditions
Road conditions vary across Kuwait.
Roads can be dangerous due to:
- uneven surfaces
- a lack of infrastructure maintenance
- potholes
Pedestrians sometimes walk on the street due to the absence of sidewalks, and vehicles don't always stop at crosswalks.
Sandstorms and heavy rains may reduce visibility and cause accidents.
Driving habits
Road accidents are rising in Kuwait. Fatal accidents are common, especially due to:
- speeding
- drivers overtaking other cars on road shoulders
- cars circulating with no headlights after dark
- distractions such as cellphone use while driving
- racing against other drivers
- road rage
In the event of an accident, you should contact the police immediately and, if possible, move your vehicle on the road shoulder to avoid blocking traffic and getting a fine.
If you choose to drive in Kuwait:
- exercise caution
- always drive defensively
- do not engage with drivers showing signs of road rage
- always carry a cellphone and a charger
Public transportation
Public transportation options are limited to buses and taxis, especially outside major cities.
Buses
Buses are often behind schedule and most services do not operate at night.
Taxis
Official and unofficial taxis operate in Kuwait, but it’s difficult to differentiate them. Drivers may not always use meters and usually only accept payment in cash. Vehicles are not always equipped with safety features like seatbelts.
- Only use officially marked taxis or trusted ride-share services
- Arrange your pickup with your hotel before arrival when travelling by air or use authorized cabs at the airport
- Never share a taxi with strangers
- Confirm the fare in advance
- Have small bills available for payment
Piracy
Pirate attacks and armed robberies against ships occur in coastal waters. Travellers should take appropriate precautions.
Live piracy report - International Maritime Bureau
Air travel
We don't make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.
Information about foreign domestic airlines
