By Layla Al-Duwaihis ~
Huddled in the heart of the Arabian Gulf is Kuwaitously, a weekend adventure that’s not to be overlooked. In 48 hours, the visitors whizz in and out in wonder to see just how much of all things this vibrant but small nation has to offer—whether its cultural attractions and vibrant souks, sun-around-the-clock sea days, and cross-cultural excitement. For its heritage beneficiaries, a day of indulgence today or a touch of sunlight, Kuwait has something diverse for them over the weekend.
Friday Morning: Panoramic Welcome in Kuwait Towers
No visit to Kuwait can ever be described as complete if there is not a visit to the Kuwait Towers, a series of thin, tall towers that tower above the skyline. The towers were not completed until 1979 and are not only a water tank, but a national icon. Start the day here with a lift up Kuwait’s middle tower on an elevator to take in city and Arabian Gulf views. Whirling coffee at the café and 360-degree panorama—a convenient city orientation to have.
Midday: Souk Al-Mubarakiya Marketplace Life
From flashy skyscraper to snug coziness, Souk Al-Mubarakiya is an oasis of a promenade along Kuwait’s lifeblood. This is one of Kuwait’s oldest bazaars, and it is full of color and personality. Walk through its busy side alleys where merchants haggle over scented incense and fresh fruit to embroidered clothing and antiques. Lunch at the street food stalls and enjoy machboos, the official meat and rice of Kuwait, or snack on crunchy fried falafil encased in fresh khubz bread.
Afternoon: Moment of Remembrance in the Grand Mosque
A tranquil antidote to souk anarchy comes next in Kuwait’s biggest mosque, the Grand Mosque. It’s a study of engineering perfection in mind-bending domes, beautiful script, and light-filled prayer rooms. Open to non-Muslims on guided tours—typically conducted by educated nationals—it allows one to see Islamic heritage and Kuwaiti tradition in dignified, sophisticated fashion. It’s one of those sites where more is conveyed in quiet and stillness than it is ever likely to be heard in noise.
Evening: Supper and Shopping Therapy at The Avenues
As the Gulf sun sets, head for The Avenues Mall, Kuwait’s largest and most modern shopping complex. The mammoth complex features international fashion designer brands, national boutique chain stores, and international restaurants. Have supper in style or treat yourself to a snack, the option is unlimited. Finish supper with some shopping in the evening or walk under-glass roofs of a European boulevard at the locals.
Saturday Mornings: Ocean Peace and Science Wonders
Start the weekend at beach breakfast—drive to one of the Gulf Road gulfside cafes for warm croissants, Arabic coffee, and sea. Then to the Kuwait Scientific Center, a family compound featuring aquarium, discovery center, and IMAX theater. The ocean presentations at the center are particularly fascinating, with close-up experiences on Gulf life, from sea turtle to reef shark.
Afternoon: Cultural Wonders in the Kuwait National Museum
Relax the weekend in the Kuwait National Museum, a cultural haven that examines the past of Kuwait across the centuries. Unearth archaeological treasures, authentic artifacts, and exhibitions of Bedouin ways of life. maritime history. and modern expansion. Even the structure is an architectural gem of desert buildings, sand-hued structures surrounding open spaces.
Sunset Farewell: Moments over the Gulf
As your weekend slips away, stroll along Arabian Gulf Street, on which people mingle to see the sun go down. The sun sets below the horizon in golden and rosy lampings while the city that you are leaving behind is a golden colour sunset. Whether you do nothing, sitting on a bench or strolling along the corniche, it is a peaceful moment to think about your 48-hour sojourn—an odyssey that began in towers and closed on tides, an odyssey of hospitality, heritage, and a touch of the unforeseen.
