Kuwait has one of the most unusual demographic profiles in the world. Only about 30% of the population of roughly 4.5 million are Kuwaiti nationals. The rest are expatriate workers -- Indians, Egyptians, Filipinos, Bangladeshis, Pakistanis, and other Arabs -- who form the backbone of the country's service economy, construction industry, and domestic workforce.
Kuwaiti society is tribal and family-oriented. Extended families are close-knit, and the diwaniya -- a regular social gathering, traditionally held in a separate reception room in Kuwaiti homes -- remains central to social and political life. Men gather to discuss business, politics, and community affairs over tea and coffee. It is a uniquely Kuwaiti institution and one that visitors occasionally get invited to.
The country is predominantly Muslim, split roughly between Sunni and Shia communities. Kuwait is more tolerant than some of its neighbours -- there are established Christian churches, and Hindu and Sikh communities worship freely. Women have had the right to vote since 2005 and are increasingly present in business and government, though society remains conservative by Western standards.
Arabic is the official language, but English is so widely spoken that you can get by easily without any Arabic. That said, learning a few phrases -- marhaba (hello), shukran (thank you) -- goes a long way and is appreciated.
Kuwaitis are known for their hospitality. If you are invited into a home, expect to be overwhelmed with food and tea. It is polite to accept at least one cup of the cardamom-scented Arabic coffee that will be offered repeatedly. The pace of life is relaxed, conversations are unhurried, and generosity is a point of pride.
The Bedouin heritage is still visible in Kuwait, particularly in the desert areas outside the city, where some families maintain traditional camps and keep camels and falcons. The annual camel racing season is a fascinating window into this older way of life.