Life in Kuwait
The community: Kuwait offers a peaceful and social way of life. The expat community is close-knit and active, and Kuwaitis and expats are welcoming and friendly. GBS parents are mostly Kuwaitis and are very supportive of the school.
Travel and cultural enrichment: Working overseas gives a teacher an opportunity to learn new languages, experience vibrant cultures, and visit other countries. Kuwait’s central location gives the teacher a chance to travel extensively, visiting countries in the Arabian Gulf Region, the Middle East, Europe, the Far East, and Africa. The GBS calendar makes abundant travel possible.
Safety: Kuwait is very safe for Westerners. The country is friendly and peaceful and ongoing conflicts in the region have no real impact on life in Kuwait. Westerners find the Kuwaiti population quite welcoming.
Savings: It is possible for teachers to save up a good portion of their salary while living a very comfortable life and traveling during their vacation periods.
What is life like for women in Kuwait?
Women enjoy the same freedoms in Kuwait that they would elsewhere. They are free to drive and to go out alone shopping or for a walk on the beach.
What to wear?
Kuwait weather is rather hot April-November. Light clothing is most suited. The months of December to February can become quite cold; winter jackets are needed. Women are not required to cover their hair or faces and typical, conservative Western dress is most common. Dressing provocatively will most often attract unwanted attention, however. GBS has a professional and respectful dress code.
What do people do for fun and entertainment in Kuwait?
Shopping, movies, restaurants, water activities, sport, music, and art activities are all available. Kuwait is home to many health and beach clubs which can be joined for a reasonable fee. Teachers can also join the local softball league or choose to play rugby, darts, billiards, badminton, volleyball, bowling, golf or hockey. Many volunteer their time to the Kuwait Little League. Local community theatres offer opportunities for those interested in acting or working back stage. Movie-going is a popular form of entertainment in Kuwait with multi-screen cinemas located in all major malls. The latest American movies are available. Other opportunities include musical performances; activities planned through the AWARE Center, sailing, scuba diving, snorkeling, camping, four-wheeling, and live theatre productions. In addition, expats often form book clubs and other social circles in which to spend their time.
Can you purchase Western products?
American and European shops and restaurants are widely available.
Can my family and friends visit me in Kuwait?
The nationals of many countries are eligible for visas on arrival at Kuwait's airport and land borders. The on-arrival visa is valid for a single entry of up to 3 months. Eligible nationals include those from Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the United States of America, the United Kingdom, and many other European countries.
Can I sponsor my spouse and dependents?
A male employee, after obtaining his residency visa, can sponsor his wife and children. A female worker cannot sponsor her husband but can sponsor her children. Only married couples can live together under the same roof.
Do I need a car in Kuwait?
Taxis are widely and easily available and relatively cheap throughout Kuwait. Many expat teachers rent or purchase cars while in Kuwait, but this is not necessary. Rental cars and gasoline are affordable.
What local or religious customs must be observed?
Ramadan is the most important religious event in the Islamic year. The specific dates change slightly each year due to the Islamic calendar. During this month, school and work hours are reduced. School generally begins at 9:00 a.m. and ends at 2:00 p.m. during Ramadan. It is illegal to eat, drink, or smoke in public during day time in Ramadan.