Banks: 08:30 to 20:30, Saturday to Thursday
Post Offices: 07:00 to 14:00, Saturday to Wednesday; 07:00 to 12:00, Thursday
Government Offices: 07:00 to 14:00, Saturday to Wednesday
Business Centres: 08:30 to 13:00 and 16:00 to 20:00, Saturday to Wednesday
Shops: 09:00 to 13:00 and 16:00 to 21:00, Saturday to Thursday

Kuwait has a relatively low rate of crime and is, on the whole, a very safe place for visitors. The main threat facing travellers is petty theft, with purse snatchers and pickpockets working crowded areas such as bus terminals. The city streets are relatively low-key after dark due to the prohibition on alcohol.

Driving conditions are variable, and local drivers are aggressive by Western standards, so those who choose to hire a car will want to err on the side of caution. Finally, during the fasting month of Ramadan, eating in public (during daylight hours) is frowned upon and is in some cases punishable by a fine.

240V, 50 hertz; round, two-pin plug

The public healthcare system is entirely administered by the government, offering subsidised medical treatment to locals. Expatriates (with a resident visa) and tourists must pay a modest fee to receive treatment in public hospitals and clinics. Private clinics are also available for those who seek a higher quality of treatment. Those involved in a medical emergency or accident (even foreigners) qualify for free treatment. Tap water (desalinated) is purportedly safe to drink, though most opt for inexpensive bottled water.

Emergency services: 777

Arabic is the official language of Kuwait, though the local Kuwaiti dialect differs substantially from classical Arabic (which continues to be taught in schools).

Kuwait uses the Kuwaiti dinar(KWD) in everyday commerce. This unit of currency is divided into 1,000 fils.

As alcohol is prohibited throughout Kuwait, duty-free requirements vary slightly from that of most other nations. A limited amount of tobacco and personal effects such as perfume are still admitted duty-free. Prohibited items range from the typical forbidden items (firearms, explosives, pornography and illegal drugs) to more specific bans. All Israeli goods are forbidden, as are pork products.

Kuwait has a distinct international flavour, and the diverse landscape of cultures that pass through here enjoy a high level of tolerance. Locals wear anything from traditional dress (such as headscarves, prayer robes and head-to-floor abayas) as well as Western-style t-shirts and even shorts. It is best to avoid revealing clothing and swimwear at beaches, although it may be acceptable at hotel pools.

Nationals of most Western nations qualify for visas upon arrival at the airport. Single-entry tourist visas cover a period of travel up to three months. In all, there are 34 nations that qualify for these visas. Citizens of other countries must receive an explicit invitation from a Kuwaiti sponsor before applying for a visa through a Kuwaiti embassy or consulate.

Kuwait Tourism Services Company (www.ktsc-q8.com) and the Touristic Enterprises Company (www.kuwaittourism.com) both have offices in Kuwait City and offer a wealth of information related to local attractions.