Kuwait

Overview

Military and retaliatory strikes have continued between the United States and Iran, with Iranian attacks targeting a number of locations in the Middle East. The situation remains volatile. Military activity could occur or resume in a sustained way at any time, with US-linked locations continuing to remain a target of Iranian strikes. Should this happen, travel disruptions and airspace closures could occur, potentially impacting New Zealanders in Kuwait for some time. Our travel advice levels could also change at short notice.

There remains a threat of attacks against US linked locations, and Israeli communities in the region. Avoid or limit your time near likely targets areas, including military bases, oil infrastructure, critical infrastructure like airports, power plants and sub-stations, telecommunication sites, de-salination plants, Kuwait International Airport, the Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah Causeway and other important economic targets. Locations such as US diplomatic facilities like US Embassies, US Consulates and identifiably US businesses are also likely targets.  

The security situation in the Middle East remains highly volatile, with Houthi strikes occurring on civilian and economic infrastructure throughout Saudi Arabia, including King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh. In light of deteriorating security situation in Saudi Arabia, we have increased our travel advisory level to ‘Do not travel (Level 4 of 4)’ and New Zealanders in Kuwait should not travel across the border into Saudi Arabia.

New Zealanders in the region should stay vigilant and monitor the media to stay informed about current events in Kuwait.

If you are in, or planning to travel to, the Middle East, monitor local media and follow the advice of local authorities at all times, including any shelter in place orders. 

There are more significant safety or security concerns than you would usually find in New Zealand. Terrorism is an ongoing threat in Kuwait. You should maintain a high level of personal security awareness, particularly in public places known to be frequented by foreigners.

Other things that New Zealanders travelling or living in Kuwait should be aware of are: 

• Civil unrest - demonstrations occasionally take place in Kuwait and may be triggered by events in both Kuwait and the wider region. Follow the instructions of local authorities.
• Crime - violent crime towards foreigners is rare, but take care in areas like Jahra and Jleeb Al Shuyoukh. 
• Landmines - unexploded landmines and munitions are a hazard in Kuwait. We advise staying on well-used roads and paths as mined areas are often unmarked. 

New Zealanders travelling or living in Kuwait should have a comprehensive travel insurance policy in place that includes provision for medical evacuation by air.

See below for detailed travel advice. 

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