🇰🇼 Drive Kuwait with Confidence
Know the rules. Carry the right documents. Enjoy the road.
Do You Need an IDP in Kuwait?
Required — Mandatory for All Foreign Drivers
Kuwait requires all foreign drivers to carry an International Driving Permit alongside their valid home license. Kuwaiti traffic police enforce this requirement during routine checks. All major rental agencies require an IDP before releasing a vehicle.
Extreme Summer Heat
Kuwait experiences some of the highest temperatures on Earth, regularly exceeding 50°C in summer. Never leave the vehicle without water. Ensure air conditioning is functional before renting. Tire blowouts are common in extreme heat.
Driving Rules in Kuwait
Drive on the Right
Kuwait drives on the right side with left-hand-drive vehicles. Main highways are well-maintained but local driving style can be aggressive. Lane discipline is inconsistent and tailgating is common.
Desert Highways
Kuwait has modern highways connecting Kuwait City to surrounding areas. The road to Saudi Arabia crosses vast desert terrain. Always carry extra water and fuel. Sand can drift across roads, reducing visibility.
Zero Alcohol Tolerance
Alcohol is completely prohibited in Kuwait. There is zero tolerance for any consumption. Penalties include heavy fines, imprisonment, and deportation. This is strictly enforced for all residents and visitors.
Speed Limits & Cameras
Urban: 45–80 km/h. Highways: 80–120 km/h. Speed cameras are extensive and fines are automatic. Using a mobile phone while driving is prohibited. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants.
Renting a Car in Kuwait
Car rental is readily available in Kuwait City and at Kuwait International Airport.
Required Documents
IDP (mandatory), original license, passport, and credit card. Minimum age is typically 21. SUVs are popular and recommended for any desert excursions.
Typical Costs
Economy cars from KWD 8–15/day (approx. $26–49). Full insurance adds KWD 3–6/day. Fuel is very affordable at approximately KWD 0.090/liter for premium petrol.
Top Rental Companies
AutoReserve — Popular local platform with wide selection. Avis — Airport presence with IDP enforcement. Budget — Good fleet variety and competitive rates.
“Kuwait City surprised us with its modern highways and easy navigation. The RoadSeal IDP made our rental pickup at the airport quick and painless. Just be prepared for the heat — air conditioning is not optional here.”
Get Your IDP for Kuwait — From $29
Delivered digitally in as little as 2 hours. Physical copy shipped worldwide. Valid for 1 year.
Apply Now →Returning to Kuwait? Renew your IDP with 10% loyalty discount →
Kuwait IDP FAQ
Yes. Kuwait requires all foreign drivers to carry an International Driving Permit alongside their home license. Traffic police enforce this during routine checks and all rental agencies require it.
Drive with caution. Temperatures regularly exceed 50C in summer. Ensure air conditioning works, carry extra water, check tire pressure regularly, and never leave the vehicle without water.
Kuwaiti drivers can be aggressive. Tailgating and sudden lane changes are common. Drive defensively, use mirrors frequently, and maintain a safe following distance especially on highways.