Kuwait Map: Regions, Geography, Facts & Figures

Kuwait is a small yet fascinating country located in Western Asia, bordering Iraq and Saudi Arabia on the world map. It is situated at the northern end of the Persian Gulf, with a coastline that stretches approximately 310 miles. Kuwait is known for its oil reserves and a high standard of living. The country has a rich history and culture, and is home to several cities, including the capital, Kuwait City.

If you want to discover more in-depth information on Kuwait as a country, check out our Kuwait Profile!

Plus, test your knowledge with our regional culture quiz on Middle Eastern Mythological Creatures!

History of Kuwait

Kuwaiti history is long and complex, dating back thousands of years. The region has been inhabited by various groups, including the Greeks and the Persians, and was an important center of trade and commerce in the early Middle Ages. In the 18th century, Kuwait became a prosperous trading center, thanks to its strategic location and access to the Persian Gulf. It gained independence from Britain in 1961, and has since become an important player in regional politics and economics.

Geography of Kuwait

Kuwait is a small country located on the northeastern corner of the Arabian Peninsula. The Middle East map shows that it is bordered by Iraqi land to the north and west, Saudi Arabia to the south, and the Persian Gulf to the east. Kuwait is largely a desert country, with the exception of some fertile coastal areas, and extends over 6,880 square miles in area, making it slightly smaller than the U.S. state of New Jersey. The country also has a maritime border shared with Iran.

The Political State of Kuwait

The political map of Kuwait is divided into six governorates: Al Asimah, Hawalli, Al Farwaniyah, Al Ahmadi, Jahra, and Mubarak Al-Kabeer, with the capital, Kuwait City, located in Al Asimah. These governorates are further divided into districts, which are divided into smaller towns and villages.

Major Cities in Kuwait

Kuwait is home to several major cities, including:

Kuwait City: The capital and largest city of Kuwait, known as Madīnat al Kuwayt in Arabic, it is a bustling metropolis and the political, cultural, and economic center of the country, on the edge of Kuwait Bay. It is home to several important landmarks, including the Kuwait Towers and the Grand Mosque.
Al Jahra: Situated to the northwest of Kuwait City, it is known for its historic souks and traditional architecture.
Al Ahmadi: Located to the south of Kuwait City, it is an important industrial center and home to several oil refineries.
Hawalli: Found to the southeast of Kuwait City, Hawalli is the largest city in Kuwait and is a residential and commercial district known for its shopping centers and restaurants.

Tourist Attractions in Kuwait

Kuwait is home to several important tourist attractions. Whether you're interested in history, culture, or natural beauty, there is something for everyone in this fascinating country.

Kuwait Towers

The Kuwait Towers are a group of three towers located in Kuwait City. They are an important landmark and symbol of the country, and are a popular destination for tourists.

Bubiyan Island

Bubiyan Island is the largest island in Kuwait, located in the northern part of the country. It is home to several important archaeological sites, and is a popular destination for tourists.

The Grand Mosque

The Grand Mosque, also known as the Kuwait State Mosque, is located in Kuwait City and is one of the largest mosques in the world. It can accommodate up to 10,000 worshippers at a time and is open to non-Muslim visitors.

Souk Al-Mubarakiya

Souk Al-Mubarakiya is one of the oldest and largest markets in Kuwait, offering a wide range of traditional goods and foods. Visitors can find everything from spices and textiles to gold and silver jewelry.

The Tareq Rajab Museum

The Tareq Rajab Museum is a private museum located in Kuwait City. It features a vast collection of Islamic art and artifacts, including calligraphy, ceramics, and textiles from other countries in the Middle East, such as Syria, Yemen, and Oman, among others.

The Persian Gulf

This large and important body of water borders not only Kuwait, but also laps against the shores of other Middle Eastern countries: Bahrain, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, and Iran. It is home to rocky reefs, fish, and a vast history of transport stretching back to the ancient world.