Study Abroad Programs in Kuwait

Kuwait is a tiny country in the upper corner of the Persian Gulf, tucked between Iraq and Saudi Arabia. You can go from border to border in less than two hours! While the country revolves around its capital city, there are plenty of places to see, including nine islands off the coast.

Kuwait City. The capital is the number one choice for expats coming to Kuwait, be they students or workers. It’s got everything— great food, great accommodation, and great shopping. Some say there are limited things to do in Kuwait, and unless you like eating out and visiting malls there’s not much on the agenda, but at least Kuwait does those things right. Kuwaitis are mega foodies who enjoy everything from spicy Indian to Persian, Arabian, and Mediterranean dishes. This diversity is not only reflected in the cuisine, but also the makeup of the universities and the courses offered there.

Salmiya. This coastal city is home to numerous mosques, an aquarium, a Scientific Center, a football stadium, and shopping districts reminiscent of Kuwait’s once-numerous traditional souk bazaars. Many students choose it over the capital for its centrally-located schools within walking distance of downtown. Among them are the American University of Kuwait, Gulf English School, the French School of Kuwait, and the nation’s oldest school, the Pakistan School and College. Students interested in design can visit the artificial Green Island, a manufacturing marvel that managed to bring sand in from other countries, and grow greenery more akin to a jungle than the desert region it belongs to.

Study abroad programs in Kuwait vary, but tend to highlight trade policies, state-society relations, and regime stability in the Gulf region. The true internationalism of the universities provides unique viewpoints on all issues, and makes for interesting and important discussions on how to move forward in today’s world.

International Relations. Because Kuwait is so rich in oil, a study of its trade patterns is relevant to anyone interested in international trade and even currency. The effects of oil on both domestic and foreign policy are critical; trade-offs of money for regional power is a story not just told in Kuwait, but the entire Middle East and parts of Africa. Studying it where you can talk to people affected by the policies gives you a unique perspective that can inform policies later on.  

Liberal Arts. Even basic knowledge of Kuwait’s culture and language is important to many foreign governments. Students are encouraged to study in Kuwait with the hope that they will translate their experience to a government job in the future. Whether you see this as your path, or are simply interested in Middle Eastern culture, spending a semester abroad in Kuwait is a great route to staying long-term in this region.

Life in Kuwait is relatively cheap, particularly when compared to other oil-rich countries that tend to dominate “World’s Most Expensive Places” lists. Imported goods can be expensive, but domestic goods and petrol are cheap. And, added bonus— all shopping is tax free! Rent is on the higher side, but as accommodation will typically be included in your program price, that won’t be an extra cost. Create a FundMyTravel account to make it easy for friends and family to chip in to your funds, and check out our Scholarship Directory to see what scholarships for Kuwait you might qualify for.

Housing for Kuwait study abroad will usually be provided in dedicated complexes or dorms. These might be gender-separated, depending on the campus, but will usually be close to school and have food provided. You also won’t have to worry about furnishing anything! It is possible to get private accommodation, but there’s no guarantee on location and it can be tricky setting up bills if you’re not comfortable with your Arabic. Independence can be a great way to explore local culture however, just make sure your place has air-conditioning for those scorching desert temps!

Citizens of some countries can apply for a visa upon arrival, while others must send in the paperwork in advance, and have a sponsor from Kuwait. Paperwork typically includes a Health Certificate proving you free of contagious disease, police clearance showing no criminal record, and a student permit from your confirmed educational institution. One specific thing to note is that students who have previously travelled to Israel might not be allowed to enter. For up-to-date information, and to check out your exact situation, take a look at GoAbroad’s Embassy Directory.

Kuwait’s booming economy is attracting expatriates from around the globe. So many, in fact, that Kuwaitis only make up about a third of the population! Study abroad in Kuwait and join a large, professional community looking to learn about the world and make connections in an increasingly interconnected world. Kuwait is a great home base for exploring the world, as it’s super central to Europe, the Middle East, and Northern Africa.

Kuwait is safe and generally respectful of international students; the crime rate is low. That being said, if you’re not Muslim yourself, be sure to read up on the intricacies of the culture and do your best to adhere to their traditional practices, especially in public. Dress appropriately, avoid public alcohol consumption, and otherwise respect both written and unwritten codes of conduct. It’s a friendly place, so if you don’t go looking for trouble, it won’t come looking for you! Studying in Kuwait is sure to be one of the best, most life-changing experiences of your life… start that chapter today!