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Currency Guide for Kuwait (ISO Code: KW)

Traveling to Kuwait for a one-week mid-range stay can be an enriching experience, but it’s essential to budget wisely. On average, a traveler can expect to spend approximately 350 to 600 KWD (Kuwaiti Dinars) for a comfortable week, depending on your preferences. Here’s a breakdown of typical daily expenses in the local currency:

🍽️ Meal at a local restaurant: ~2 KWD

☕ Coffee: ~1 KWD

🚍 Public transport fare: ~0.5 KWD

📱 Prepaid SIM card: ~3 KWD

🏨 Budget hotel or Airbnb: ~30-50 KWD per night

Overall, Kuwait is considered an expensive destination compared to many countries. When stacked against the United States, daily expenses in Kuwait might be 30-50% higher, particularly for dining and accommodation. If we compare it to the UK, costs also run higher, especially in urban areas, making it imperative for travelers to plan their budgets with caution.

Living Costs for Expats in Kuwait

For expatriates living in Kuwait, monthly costs can vary significantly depending on lifestyle choices. Typically, an individual might spend around 600 to 1,200 KWD, covering rent, groceries, and transport, among other expenses. For example, sharing an apartment may cost roughly 200-300 KWD, while groceries could tally around 100-150 KWD monthly.

When it comes to banking, it’s advisable to maintain a local account for regular expenses, as cash is commonly used but credit/debit cards are widely accepted. Fees can arise when using international cards, so monitoring transactions is wise. For sending and receiving money, using online transfer services like Wise or OFX often provides better exchange rates and lower fees compared to exchanging cash locally. However, for those who prefer to have cash on hand, local exchanges can be convenient for smaller amounts.