Other Definitions
kuwait (dest)
kuwait (enc)
kuwait (dict)
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KuwaitMoney is the Kuwaiti "Dinar",KD,and is equivalent to about $3US. Check the current conversation rate for an exact figure. Coins are "fils" where 1000 fils equals 1KD. Kuwait it a very wealthy society, clean and modern with a mix of cultures and people. Kuwait is a Muslim society and follows Muslim law based on Islamic religion as set forth in The Quran, but the Christian religion is accepted and free to practice. Observance of the Muslim holiday, The Holy Month of Ramadan, must be followed, when eating, drinking, and smoking in public are strictly prohibited until after sunset. Failure to comply can result in fines and jail time. Pork, pornography, alcohol and drugs are also illegal and heavily enforced. Many Kuwaiti women are "covered" (wearing an abia and hijab, a black "robe" from head to toe-men wear white "robes") and therefore all women should dress conservatively avoiding short skirts, shorts or sleeveless clothes. Some western men do wear shorts, but it is not recommended. Women should also avoid staring or smiling at Arab men, since this is a showing of interest and will be taken as such. On the upside, crime is low and women are safe to walk about without fear. Many travel books warn of "harrassemnt" toward women, but this is misleading. Arab men may show an interest in talking to or dating a western woman, especially blondes, but ignoring any such interest will quickly give them the message. Take care when sitting to never let the sole of your shoe face directly at another person since this is a sign of insult and avoid taking photographs of Kuwaiti people without permission, especially women. Kuwait has long, hot, dry summers and shorter, somtimes wet winters. Temperatures easily reach in the 100 F during summer and most shops close down midday year round (12:30-4:30). The weekend is Thursday and Friday. Friday being the holy day equivalent to the Christain Sunday and many stores are closed until evening. It is best to check hours of operation before venturing out. Arabic is the official language although English is widely understood and most larger signs are posted in English and Arabic. The Arab Times publishes a newspaper in English and the "What's On" page provides a good source for local events.
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