Living in Kuwait is a great adventure, and you get to experience a different culture and way of life. And even though Kuwait is quite similar to the west in most regards, there are still some things that you should know about Kuwait traffic. It will allow you to move faster. It will give you a good sense of what driving looks like in this middle-eastern country. And hopefully, it will allow you to avoid traffic jams in the future.
Things to know about Kuwait traffic
Before we dive deeper into Kuwait traffic, you should get to know some basic rules and regulations. In Kuwait, you drive on the right-hand side of the road, like in most of the world. You need to be very careful when driving there as law enforcement on Kuwait’s roads is strict. Following speed limits and paying attention to traffic signs is very important. The speed limit on major highways is 75 miles per hour (120km/h). On urban roads, the speed limit is usually 28 miles per hours (45km/h). However, many drivers don’t pay much attention to this. Which leads to very hard roads to drive on. That’s why it’s advisable to use air freight Kuwait services when moving. It will be much easier for you. And you won’t have to worry about traffic.
The good news is that almost all signs are both in Arabic and in English. So, as an expat, you shouldn’t have any problems navigating the roads. Road network is very well developed. Meaning that you can reach all parts of Kuwait using very well constructed roads.
Cars are very popular in Kuwait
With a highly developed road network and low petrol prices, many people in Kuwait drive cars. And cars are by far the most popular means of transportation. As much as 80% of the population use cars to get to work or school. While public transport makes up for a little over 6%. All those cars on the road can cause some extreme traffic congestion during peak times. And it’s sometimes very difficult or even impossible to avoid it.
Use online resources to avoid traffic
With so many traffic congestions you need to have a good way to avoid it. Thankfully, there are many online resources that map Kuwait traffic. For example, you can use Google Maps to scout the traffic before you leave. Green lines represent areas with normal traffic. While the red ones represent traffic congestion. The darker the red – the bigger the traffic jam is. It’s a great tool that can help you save time and avoid long waits.
Can you drive in Kuwait?
Whenever you are introduced to a different culture, you need to be prepared to learn about it. Things are not always the same at home and abroad. And you need to make sure you are following all the right regulations. Let’s disregard whether or not you should drive in Kuwait. And everything else regarding Kuwait traffic. First, we need to focus on whether you can or can’t drive in Kuwait. Authorities in Kuwait are very strict when it comes to traffic regulations. So, you need to be sure that you are allowed and permitted to drive there.
If you own an international driver’s license you will most likely be able to drive in Kuwait. That, of course, depends on the country you are from. But, once foreigners receive their Civil ID card they are required to get a Kuwait driver’s license. The process of getting a local drivers license can vary based on where you are from. But it’s generally not that hard to get it. You may be required to take a learner’s and driving test. But nothing too hard.
Should you drive in Kuwait?
Another great question when it comes to Kuwait traffic and driving in general. Kuwait is known for its dangerous roads. Many people disregard traffic signs. They drive fast and aggressive. So, if you are an inexperienced driver you will find it difficult to navigate the roads. If you plan on moving by yourself in or to Kuwait, you might have some serious difficulties. Thankfully, it’s not hard to find and hire top shipping companies in Kuwait. That way you can avoid having to drive a loaded car through high traffic. You won’t have to stress about aggressive drivers and traffic congestions. Even if you have a lot of experience, you need to be very careful when it comes to Kuwait traffic. You not only have to make sure you follow all the regulations. You also have to watch out for other drivers.
How to drive in Kuwait traffic
Since there are always some things that you can’t load onto a moving truck and will have to bring with yourself. And having a car makes that a lot easier. Things like perishables, pets, and flammable materials can’t be shipped by a moving company. So, you will have to know how to handle Kuwait traffic on your own. First, make sure that your international driver’s license is valid in Kuwait. Then, use online resources to scout the traffic in advance. You will want to avoid major traffic congestions. And remember to be very careful.
It doesn’t matter how experienced you are at driving. In Kuwait, you will have to drive with your eyes wide open. There are many instances of drivers disregarding regulations in Kuwait. So, you will have to keep a close eye on the cars around you. Drive defensively. If someone wants to overtake you, let them. Don’t try and squeeze in between cars, as it can lead to an accident. Even when you are going through a green light, make sure you check if the road is clear.
If you happen to be in an accident call the police. One important thing about that is not to move your car until the police arrive. Otherwise, you might look guilty for the accident.