Kuwait

Kuwait is a small sovereign state located in the northern part of the Persian Gulf. It is bordered by Iraq to the north and west and by Saudi Arabia to the south, with a coastline along the Persian Gulf. The capital and largest city is Kuwait City. Kuwait is a member of the Gulf Cooperation Council and a founding member of OPEC.

The country has a desert climate with hot summers and mild winters, and rainfall is scarce. Most residents live in urban areas along the coast, and Kuwait hosts a substantial expatriate community that participates in the labor market.

Kuwait is a constitutional monarchy where the Emir is the head of state and the Prime Minister acts as head of government. The unicameral National Assembly is elected, and the Basic Law of 1962 provides the constitutional framework for governance and civil rights.

Oil dominates Kuwait’s economy, contributing a large share of government revenue and exports. The Kuwait Investment Authority operates one of the world’s largest sovereign wealth funds, and the country pursues diversification in finance, services, and petrochemicals.

Historically, Kuwait developed as a trading and maritime community under the Sabah ruling family. It gained independence in 1961, with its sovereignty reaffirmed after the 1990-1991 Gulf War and subsequent reconstruction.

The official language is Arabic, and English is widely used in business and education. Islam is the main religion, with small non-Muslim communities present; the country maintains a high standard of literacy and healthcare, supported by extensive public services.