General Information » Essential Info » Women

Harassment of women in Kuwait has increased over the past ten years or so, and ranges from trying to start a conversation, to attempts to get you to ‘go somewhere quiet’. It would be in a woman’s best interests to dress conservatively, not respond to being approached in the street, and avoid direct eye contact with anyone trying to attract attention.

Women can travel alone at night although remote areas are not recommended. Keep to the areas frequented by Westerners if you are on your own, or go in a group if you plan on going elsewhere. As with all cities in the world, common sense is required.

If you ever feel intimated make your way to the safety of a police station or public place frequented by Westerners. Should this not be possible your best bet is to make a lot of noise which will more than likely cause your intimidator to silently retreat. The way in which foreign women are treated in Kuwait has a lot to do with how they are portrayed in the media in the West. It is worth noting that the unwanted attention is not from Kuwaiti men alone; there are a number of nationalities responsible for this behaviour. You will find most Kuwaiti men will be quite upset to hear of a visitor to Kuwait being threatened in such a manner.