Kuwait is an oil-rich state and offers visitors a relatively relaxed entry into the Islamic world. One can wonder around mosques, markets and other sandy traces of the bygone Bedouin days, or retreat into the opulence of glitzy hotels and shopping malls. It has the world's fifth largest proven oil reserves and is the fourth richest country in the world per capita with an estimated population of 3.5 million.
Kuwait is a diminutive of an Arabic word meaning ""fortress built near water."" Situated on the coast of the Persian Gulf, in the northwest corner of the Arabian Peninsula, Kuwait is one of the smallest countries in the world in terms of land area. The flat, sandy Arabian Desert covers most of Kuwait. Kuwait is the only country in the world that has no natural lake or water reservoir. There are nine islands; Failaka Island being the only inhabited island and home to some Bronze Age and Greek archaeological sites well worth viewing, including a Greek temple.
A highly industrialized country with an extensive, modern and well-maintained network of highways, Kuwait is governed by a constitutional monarchy along with the oldest directly elected parliament of the Persian Gulf Arab countries. Kuwait City serves as its political and economic capital.
Located on Kuwait Bay, a natural deep-water harbour, Kuwait City is a bustling metropolis of skyscrapers, luxury hotels, wide boulevards and manicured parks. Its harbour is used by oil tankers, cargo ships and many pleasure craft. Kuwait Towers is the city’s most dominant landmark, while its oldest is Seif Palace. Built in 1896, the palace interior features original Islamic mosaic tile work.
An interesting fact about Kuwait is that it has one of the most outspoken and transparent media in the Arab World. In 2007, Kuwait was ranked second in the Middle East after Israel in the freedom of press index. Although 80 per cent of Kuwait's population practices Islam, there are large communities of Christians, Hindus, Buddhists, and Sikhs.