Most people think of Dubai when it’s a Middle East vacation time, but the Gulf is more than that. There are places to visit in Kuwait, Bahrain and Sharjah that are a dream for travelers. The best part is that you can explore them on a budget. No need to break your bank to take a Middle East vacation.

Kuwait is underrated. Being one of the richest countries, most people see it as an oil hub with futuristic infrastructure. The “high society” vibe makes you think you need a lot of money to be here, but that’s not the case. This place doesn’t need much budget to explore. There are places for tourists that satisfy the wanderlust of explorers on a budget.

This country offers so much to travelers that you will want to come here again and again. Let’s explore it from a local perspective so you can know why you should plan your next trip to Kuwait.

Start With the Streets

Exploring like a local means getting absorbed in as if you live there. It’s walking the same paths and embracing the same lifestyles as residents. If you want to explore Kuwait, you should start by wandering on the streets.

Some famous Kuwaiti streets are 

• Souq Al-Mubarakiya, 
• Arabian Gulf Road, 
• Souk Sharq and 
• Souk al Kuwait.

These are not streets or local markets but a direct experience of the cultural heritage of Kuwait. You can buy local things and have local food here. 

If you are exploring these streets, taste local dishes like machboos and samboosa. These foods can cost you as little as 1 or 2 Kuwaiti Dinars. You can also buy fresh dates or saffron here. If you are not interested in shopping, simply sit back and watch the people moving around and living their lives. Experience and embrace the raw Kuwaiti culture.

Know the History Through Kuwait’s Museums

History helps you understand the lifestyle of the people. If you want to visit Kuwait on a budget, visit the museums too. From science to the police museum, there are a lot of museums in Kuwait. These museums are not only cultural pride but also great places for weekend vacations.

Famous museums to visit in Kuwait are the Tareq Rajab Museum, the Kuwait National Museum and the Museum of Modern Art. Most of them have entry fees of KD 2. Many other heritage gems, like Sadu House, are free to enter. Here you can explore the Bedouin traditions. Most of the museums are quiet places and not many people go there. So you can explore in peace!

Explore Beaches on a Budget

Who says you need to check into a 5-star resort to enjoy the coast? Kuwait has dozens of free or low-cost beaches, too. You just have to be present in the moment to enjoy the waves. 

Go for a swim, evening walk, or just to see the sunset. All these are free. You don’t need to pay dimes to experience these surreal experiences. You can even take your snacks with you so you don’t have to buy from vendors and spend money. Famous public beaches are 

• Mahboula public beach
• Fahaheel Beach 
• Shuwaikh Beach
• Messilah beach 
• Fintas beach 
• Al Qout beach
• Salmiya Beach 

Visit Islands 

Kuwait has some beautiful islands that you must explore. Many of these islands are easily accessible. A round ferry trip costs just 3-4 denar. These islands are filled with beautiful, and natural landscapes. You won’t regret your trip here. Some islands have ruins, museums within and ancient history preserved in the best way. 

For travelers, our tip is to visit these islands with your own snacks, water and power bank so you can keep taking pics on your phone. These islands are a peaceful getaway from the normal routine and are at the heart of nature

Famous islands are

• Failaka island
• Kubbar island
• Qaruh island
• Warbah island 
• Green island
• Miskan island
• Jazeera Kabr
• Umm al Maradim Island

Sand Dunes

You can visit Kuwait on a budget if you pick your places wisely. Kuwait has more than dunes. It has magical sands, and a trip to the desert can freshen you up. Stargazing in the desert and enjoying desert nights are some experiences that you find only in the Gulf countries. In the desert, you can enjoy dune bashing, stargazing, campfires, and even desert BBQs. You can be a part of a group and pay only 10 KDs per person. You can find these groups via social media platforms. 

Some local families head out on weekends with tents, speakers, and enough food for a small army. If you’re lucky enough to get invited, always say yes.

Local Cheap Eats

Fancy restaurants are hell expensive, but why go for pricey options when you can have the taste and flavor on a small budget? Kuwaiti local food is yummy and worth trying. 

You can buy from small eateries, local shops or street vendors. Foods like spicy chicken shawarma, a crispy falafel wrap, or a karak chai are easily available for under KD 1. Even south asian famous cuisines like biryani or samosa are available at KD 2 – 3 max. The food here is fresh, tasty and available within a pocket change range.

Visit Parks 

Unless it’s a very fancy themed park or you are in for some costly rides, most parks are free to enjoy. Their entry fees are minimal, and you can experience both nature and culture there. There are Jogging tracks, art installations, museums, cafés, and gardens. You can visit these parks at golden hour. The architecture, fountains, and skyline views are Instagram gold. Some famous parks are

• Al Shaheed Park
• Green island 
• Al Shaheed Park 2nd phase
• Fintas park
• Abraj park
• Jamal Abdulnaser Park
• Misherf Park 

Weekend Markets

Local Kuwaitis hang out in weekend markets. These open-air markets are totally a time out within budget. You will find amazing homemade things here like perfumes and desserts. 

Also, there are affordable souvenirs and local snacks to buy. Most items range from KD 1–5. There are also spots with live music, henna artists. Sometimes even free workshops or cooking demos can catch your attention. 

Use Public Transport For Places to Visit in Kuwait

They say some best life experiences are gained while traveling through public transport. While going for a budget trip, you can also explore Kuwait’s public transport and have magical experiences. See the country, meet new people, travel across and find some magical moments alongside. Kuwait’s public bus system is surprisingly efficient, especially for major routes.

Bus fares in Kuwait are under 1 KD which is great. There are also ride apps like Careem. Traveling here is not very expensive compared to other countries. Also, it’s a great way to see everyday life unfold.

Join the Crowds!

Explore Kuwait in new ways. Enjoy the festivals and celebrations. Plan your visit around February to experience Kuwait’s National and Liberation Days. In these times, streets are decked in lights, people dress up in national colors, and parks become carnival zones. Have fun free of cost! There are Parades, light shows, concerts, and fireworks

You can bring flag stickers, snacks, and maybe a water gun if you’re feeling wild (trust us, it’s tradition!)

Spend a Day in Kuwait Under 10 KD

Well, people might not agree, but here is a surprising fact. You can spend a day in Kuwait for under 10 Denar. Here is how it can go

• Breakfast at a local bakery = KD 0.5
• Museum visit (Sadu House) = KD 1
• Ferry to Failaka (or Beach Day) = KD 3
• Lunch at local cafeteria = KD 1.5
• Sunset walk at Al Shaheed Park is Free
• Karak + dessert at café = KD 1
• Bus ride home = KD 0.25
• Total = KD 7.25

There is still plenty of room left for shopping or a shawarma nightcap. You can also plan your own trips in such budget-efficient ways. Imagine the potential the country’s tourism holds and the opportunity that calls you.

The Real Kuwait is in the Details

Kuwait does not advertise itself as a “budget-friendly destination,”. In reality it’s a land of dreams. If you look a little deeper or take a tour, you’ll find that this country too is full of stories. Stories that don’t come with a heavy price tag. You can totally explore all places to Visit in Kuwait like a local in a few hundred.