Cost of Living in Kuwait

The cost of living in Kuwait will likely be one of your most significant considerations when relocating to the country. You’ll have to get used to earning in a foreign currency, and the exchange rate may also be a shock, since the Kuwaiti dinar is the strongest currency in the world.

Living expenses in Kuwait may differ substantially between expats, depending on their salary and any additional benefits they receive, their lifestyle, and how they choose to spend their money.

The national push for Kuwaitisation continues, yet Kuwait’s expat workforce has actually grown. That said, if you are offered a job here, you can often negotiate for extra benefits. This is especially important for expat parents who have to consider the high tuition costs of international schools.

Kuwait remains significantly more affordable than other major expat hubs, with living costs roughly half that of Singapore and well below Hong Kong levels.

Cost of accommodation in Kuwait

Many expats move to Kuwait with accommodation provided by their employers. Employers own or lease apartments for their expat staff to reside in, and if you’re one of these lucky expats, you won’t need to worry about rent, utilities, or furniture costs.

We recommend checking whether utilities are included in the rental contract, as air-conditioning is necessary for summer, and could contribute to a high electricity bill. Rental prices have been rising steadily in recent years, although housing allowances are still a traditional part of expat employment packages.

Accommodation in Kuwait
Working in Kuwait

Cost of transport in Kuwait

Cars, taxis, and ride-hailing apps like Careem are Kuwait’s primary transport options for expats, alongside a basic bus network. Buses are cheap but not frequently used by expats who can afford to get around in Kuwait by car. You’ll find that expats brave enough to drive in Kuwait are happy to buy new or second-hand vehicles or rent a car, as petrol is reasonably priced in Kuwait.

Driving can be much more affordable here than in many Western countries, but be aware of additional expenses, such as car insurance. Taxis and ride-hailing services are relatively inexpensive, although it’s wise to confirm pricing beforehand. Kuwait’s planned metro system was cancelled in 2023, but a railway connection to Saudi Arabia is expected by 2028 as part of the broader GCC rail network.

Getting Around in Kuwait

Cost of groceries in Kuwait

A significant proportion of groceries in Kuwait has to be imported, with around 95 percent of food items coming from abroad. Buying typical food items that may have been more accessible at home could come at a steeper price. If you are on a specific diet, you may find that certain foodstuffs are excessively expensive or difficult to find in some cases.

Local shops like Carrefour Kuwait offer lower prices, which is great if you are looking to reduce your grocery expenses. Tools like Pricena allow you to compare prices across several shops and find the most affordable. Online delivery services have expanded rapidly, providing convenient home delivery options.

Cost of entertainment and eating out in Kuwait

Entertainment in Kuwait’s major cities can be limited to indoor experiences such as restaurants, cafés and malls, which may not be wallet-friendly. Still, Kuwait has plenty of restaurants offering diverse cuisine and street food options, which can help reduce your expenses.

During the cooler months from October to May, beaches, desert camping, and archaeological sites become popular outdoor activities. The summer heat drives most entertainment indoors. You must budget carefully to enjoy these experiences, as dining and entertainment costs can add up quickly.

Cost of education in Kuwait

Expat parents moving to Kuwait with their children must consider the cost of international schools when setting up their budget.

The country offers expats many schools with diverse curricula and quality facilities to choose from, but tuition costs are hefty. Top international schools tend to have waiting lists, so early application is advisable. We encourage expat parents to negotiate a suitable education allowance as part of their relocation package to help manage the cost of education and schools in Kuwait.

Education and Schools in Kuwait
International Schools in Kuwait

Cost of healthcare in Kuwait

Kuwait offers both public and private healthcare that is accessible to locals and expats alike. Most expats prefer private medical facilities, which provide excellent care and short waiting times, although private hospitals come with higher costs.

Health insurance is now mandatory for private sector expats. Expats must also pay an annual fee to access public healthcare services. We recommend getting comprehensive private medical insurance to ensure complete coverage for any situation. The cost of private health insurance will vary based on your individual coverage level, your health status, and age.

Healthcare in Kuwait