The entire country of Kuwait has a population of fewer than 3 million people, and has one of the world’s largest oil reserves, making it one of the richest countries in the world. The Kuwaiti Dinar is one of the highest valued currencies in the world, so those wanting to go backpacking in Kuwait will need to keep in mind that food and accommodations will not be as cheap as they may be elsewhere in the Middle East.
Kuwait Towers
The Kuwait Towers are three towers built of reinforced concrete and created by a company from Belgrade in 1979. The main tower is about 187 meters high and provides for a unique view of Kuwait City, as it also houses a restaurant, water tower, and Viewing Sphere which completes a full turn every 30 minutes. The second tower is slightly shorter and is a water tower. The third tower is the shortest of the three, and controls the flow of electricity. Together, the towers hold 4,500 cubic meters of water that is distributed throughout the city. The towers were subject to some damage in the 1990s during the Iraqi occupation of Kuwait, but the towers remain open to the public today. They opened to the public in March of 1979. The towers were heavily damaged by the Iraqis during their occupation of Kuwait from 1990 to 1991 during the First Gulf War.
Liberation Tower
The Kuwait Telecommunications Tower, or the Liberation Tower, is the tallest structure in the country, and an iconic structure in the Kuwait City skyline. Building of the tower began before the Iraqi occupation, and was stalled during the occupation. When building was completed in 1993, it was renamed the Liberation Tower in honor of Kuwait’s liberation from Iraqi forces. It is one of the tallest free standing structures in the world, and one of Kuwait City’s most well recognized sites.
Accommodations
Kuwait City does not offer many options for cheap accommodations, but there are some more affordable places to stay. The Mövenpick Al Bidaa Hotel and Resort is located in an area of Kuwait City called Salmiya, about 15 minutes from the airport and downtown areas. The hotel and resort has a private beach for guests and 5 swimming pools. The resort offers suites and apartments, and luxurious views of the sea. There is a gym and spa, as well as several restaurants on site, serving local and international dishes. The Mövenpick Al Bidaa Hotel and Resort is a 5 star facility, and prices start from about 33 euros per person per night and increase from there.
