Kuwait City is the capital of Kuwait: the Gulf Road with Kuwait Towers, Souq Al-Mubarakiya, the Grand Mosque, Sadu House, the National Museum and Al Shaheed Park all sit within a short ride of each other.
Best souvenirs
Authentic items worth bringing home.
Dates and Kuwaiti sweets (KWD 2-6, ~$6.50-19.50 per box)
Oud and perfume (KWD 5-50, ~$16-163)
Sadu weaving crafts (KWD 3-30, ~$10-98)
Spices and dried lime
Traditional markets
Where locals shop and travellers find treasures.
Shopping districts
Neighbourhoods known for retail.
Qibla and Salhiya
Souq Al-Mubarakiya and the Salhiya Complex.
Sharq
Assima Mall, Al Hamra Mall and Arraya Centre.
Malls & modern shopping
Air-conditioned, international brands, and food courts.
Salhiya Complex
Assima Mall
Al Hamra Mall
Arraya Centre
Bargaining tips
Negotiate like a local.
Bargain politely in souq shops without fixed prices; mall prices are fixed.
Compare two or three stalls before buying oud or gold.
Buy from the shop you chose; avoid unlicensed street sellers.
Customs & restrictions
What you can and can't take home.
Modest dress in malls and souqs., Shops pause near prayer times and many close for the afternoon break., Souq Sharq is closed (evacuated early 2026) and is not listed.