Travel Vaccines and Advice for Kuwait
Kuwait is located in the Middle East, surrounded by the Persian Gulf, Iraq, and Saudi Arabia. The country is not quite as wealthy as its neighbors, but what it lacks in glamour, it makes up for in authenticity.
There are fewer tourists that visit the country, resulting in a truly Arab feel to the country. The country is filled with gorgeous deserts, world-class museums and beautiful beaches. This gives travelers a wide range of things to do and see.
On This Page:
Do I Need Vaccines for Kuwait?
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Kuwait
Do I Need a Visa for Kuwait?
What Is the Climate Like in Kuwait?
How Safe Is Kuwait?
Visiting the Kuwait Towers
What Should I Take to Kuwait?
U.S. Embassy to Kuwait
Do I Need Vaccines for Kuwait?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Kuwait. The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Kuwait: typhoid, hepatitis A, polio, rabies, hepatitis B, influenza, COVID-19, pneumonia, meningitis, chickenpox, shingles, Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis) and measles, mumps and rubella (MMR).
See the bullets below to learn more about some of these key immunizations:
- Typhoid –
Food & Water –
Shot lasts 2 years. Oral vaccine lasts 5 years, must be able to swallow pills. Oral doses must be kept in refrigerator. - Hepatitis A –
Food & Water –
Recommended for most travelers. - Polio –
Food & Water –
Due to an increase in cases globally, an additional adult booster is recommended for most travelers to any destination. - Rabies –
Saliva of Infected Animals –
High risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-term travelers and those who may come in contact with animals. - Hepatitis B –
Blood & Body Fluids –
Recommended for travelers to most regions. - Influenza –
Airborne –
Vaccine components change annually. - COVID-19 –
Airborne –
Recommended for travel to all regions, both foreign and domestic. - Pneumonia –
Airborne –
Two vaccines given separately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both. - Meningitis –
Direct Contact & Airborne –
Given to anyone unvaccinated or at an increased risk, especially students. - Chickenpox –
Direct Contact & Airborne –
Given to those unvaccinated that did not have chickenpox. - Shingles –
Direct Contact –
Vaccine can still be given if you have had shingles. - Polio –
Food & Water –
Considered a routine vaccination for most travel itineraries. Single adult booster recommended. - TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) –
Wounds & Airborne –
Only one adult booster of pertussis required. - Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) –
Various Vectors –
Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended.
See the table below for more information:
Recommended Travel Vaccinations for Kuwait |
||
| VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
|---|---|---|
| Typhoid | Food & Water | Shot lasts 2 years. Oral vaccine lasts 5 years, must be able to swallow pills. Oral doses must be kept in refrigerator. |
| Hepatitis A | Food & Water | Recommended for most travelers. |
| Polio | Food & Water | Due to an increase in cases globally, an additional adult booster is recommended for most travelers to any destination. |
| Rabies | Saliva of Infected Animals | High risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-term travelers and those who may come in contact with animals. |
| Hepatitis B | Blood & Body Fluids | Recommended for travelers to most regions. |
Routine Vaccinations for Kuwait |
||
| VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
|---|---|---|
| Influenza | Airborne | Vaccine components change annually. |
| COVID-19 | Airborne | Recommended for travel to all regions, both foreign and domestic. |
| Pneumonia | Airborne | Two vaccines given separately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both. |
| Meningitis | Direct Contact & Airborne | Given to anyone unvaccinated or at an increased risk, especially students. |
| Chickenpox | Direct Contact & Airborne | Given to those unvaccinated that did not have chickenpox. |
| Shingles | Direct Contact | Vaccine can still be given if you have had shingles. |
| TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) | Wounds & Airborne | Only one adult booster of pertussis required. |
| Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) | Various Vectors | Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended. |
Specific Vaccine Information
- Typhoid – Salmonella Typhi causes typhoid, a potentially life-threatening illness spread through contaminated food and water. Vaccination is a critical preventive measure, especially for travelers heading to endemic regions or individuals with an increased risk of exposure.
- Hepatitis A – Hepatitis A, caused by the hepatitis A virus (HAV), is a contagious liver infection. It spreads through contaminated food, water, and close contact. Preventive measures include vaccination, good hygiene, and avoiding raw shellfish. The hepatitis A vaccine is highly effective, requiring two doses for long-term protection.
- Rabies – Preventing rabies involves avoiding contact with infected animals and ensuring timely vaccination. The rabies vaccine is a critical tool, offering protection through post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) and preemptive vaccination for high-risk individuals like travelers.
- Hepatitis B – The hepatitis B virus causes liver infection, spreading through contact with infected bodily fluids. Prevention measures include safe practices and, notably, hepatitis B vaccination. This vaccine effectively triggers the immune system to produce antibodies, offering reliable, long-term protection against the virus.
- Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) – Measles, mumps, and rubella are highly infectious diseases that can lead to complications like pneumonia and encephalitis. To combat these threats, vaccination with the MMR vaccine is imperative. This two-dose vaccine not only shields individuals but also contributes to herd immunity, reducing the risk of outbreaks.
Dengue is present in Kuwait. Repellents or netting are recommended for a trip to Kuwait, especially along the coast.
See our vaccinations page to learn more about these infections and vaccines. Ready to protect yourself? Book your travel health appointment today by calling or schedule online now.
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Kuwait
Prevent Bug Bites in Kuwait
Keep bugs at bay by dressing smartly and applying EPA-registered repellents containing DEET, picaridin, or OLE. In case of a bug bite, cleanse the area, refrain from scratching, and find relief with readily available remedies. If symptoms worsen, consult a healthcare professional.
Food and Water Safety in Kuwait
Abroad, make wise food choices by familiarizing yourself with local cuisine and favoring established restaurants. Frequent hand-washing is crucial, and it’s advisable to steer clear of street food, opting for thoroughly cooked options.
Infections To Be Aware of in Kuwait
- Dengue – Aedes mosquitoes spread dengue to millions globally, prevention is the best defense. The disease can strike multiple times due to its four strains, underscoring the need for mosquito bite prevention like netting and repellents.
- Leishmaniasis – Leishmaniasis is a parasitic disease transmitted by infected sand flies. It poses a significant health threat to humans and animals. Preventive measures include using insect repellents, wearing protective clothing, and staying indoors during peak sand fly activity.
- MERS – MERS is a severe respiratory illness caused by the MERS-CoV virus. Preventing MERS entails regular hand-washing, avoiding contact with infected individuals and camels, and adhering to CDC travel recommendations. Currently, there is no vaccination or specific antiviral treatment for MERS.
Do I Need a Visa for Kuwait?
A visa and passport are required for entry into Kuwait. Be sure to have some Kuwaiti Dinars with you as they may be required to pay any fees on arrival.
Kuwait Entry Requirements |
||
| Do I Need A… | For My Trip to Kuwait? | |
|---|---|---|
| Passport |  |
|
| Tourist Visa | |
|
| Business Visa | |
|
| Vaccinations | ||
Sources: Embassy of Kuwait and U.S. State Department
Passport Health has partnered with industry leaders in travel document services, RushMyPassport and G3 Travel Services. These teams will walk you through the Kuwait visa process step-by-step and handle the sometimes difficult communication with embassies and consulates. Start your visa process today!
What Is the Climate Like in Kuwait?
Kuwait is a country with a desert climate. This means it has very hot summers and cool winters. The weather can change depending on where you are and the time of year.
Some popular tourist spots in Kuwait are:
- Kuwait City: The biggest city, it has hot summers with temperatures often over 113°F. Winters are cooler, between 46°F and 64°F.
- Failaka Island: An island in the Arabian Gulf, it has a similar climate to Kuwait City, but might be a little cooler because of the water around it.
- Al Jahra: A city in western Kuwait, it has a hot and dry climate like Kuwait City.
- Al Ahmadi: A city in southern Kuwait, it has a climate like the rest of the country.
For the latest weather, check a weather website or app.
How Safe Is Kuwait?
Kuwait is usually safe for travelers, but it’s important to follow some tips to stay safe. First, respect local customs and laws. Kuwait is a Muslim country, so dress modestly and avoid public displays of affection. Second, be careful in hot weather. Drink water, use sunscreen, and stay indoors during the hottest hours. Third, be careful on the roads. Driving can be risky, so consider using taxis or ride-sharing apps.
Avoid talking about sensitive topics like politics or religion. Keep an eye on your belongings to prevent theft. Check your government’s travel website for updates on safety. Make sure your vaccinations are up-to-date before your trip. Carry a copy of your passport and visa, as police may ask for it. Stay away from protests or large gatherings, as they can be dangerous. Finally, follow local news to stay informed about events.
By staying informed, respecting local customs, and using common sense, you can have a safe and enjoyable trip to Kuwait.
Visiting the Kuwait Towers
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The Grand Mosque is a beautiful and important place in Kuwait. It is the largest mosque in the country and can hold over 10,000 people at a time. Tourists like to visit it because of its stunning design and peaceful atmosphere. It is a great place to learn about Kuwait’s culture and religion.
When you visit the Grand Mosque, you can take a free guided tour in English or Arabic. The tour will teach you about the mosque’s history, architecture, and the Islamic religion. You can also see and take part in local customs, like taking off your shoes before going inside and dressing modestly.
It’s important to remember that the Grand Mosque is a religious place, so visitors should dress properly and follow the rules. Women should cover their hair, arms, and legs, and men should wear long pants. You can take pictures, but always ask for permission first.
What Should I Take to Kuwait?
Kuwait offers a unique experience to travelers. Make sure what you bring will help you be ready for the trip.
- Warm Clothing – Despite the country being a desert climate, it can be very cold. This is especially true at night and in winter. Bring a jacket depending on the time of your visit.
- Kuwaiti Dinars – The Kuwaiti dinar is the currency of Kuwait. It is best to have at least a few with you upon arrival.
- Sunscreen – Kuwait is very hot and receives lots of sun. Travelers will likely be outside exploring, making sunscreen a must.
U.S. Embassy to Kuwait
When traveling it is very helpful to find out exactly where the U.S. embassy or consulates are located. Keep the address written down in case you have a legal problem, you lose your passport, or you want to report a crime. Be sure to keep a copy of your passport with you in case you lose the original.
U.S. Embassy Kuwait City
Bayan, Block 13,
Masjed Al-Aqsa Street,
Kuwait City, Kuwait
Telephone: +(965) 2259-1001
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(965) 2259-1001
Fax: +(965) 2259-1438
If there’s an emergency, like a natural disaster or if you’re sick, the embassy can help you. They can also give advice if you get arrested and help you talk to your family. They give information on how to vote if you’re not in the U.S. and help with questions about taxes and money from the government, like Social Security.
Remember, you might need an appointment for some help and there could be fees. Check the U.S. embassy’s website in Kuwait for the latest details.
Ready to start your next journey? Call us at or book online now!
Customer Reviews
Passport Health – Travel Vaccines for Kuwait
“The RN made it a point to explain and go through all the info I needed to know about the shots and precautions and tips when traveling to Kuwait.”
“The meeting was simple, easy, and straightforward. I was able to get the information I needed and the relevant shots needed based on what our activities were anticipated be while in Kuwait. Desiree was very helpful and provided us with the necessary information to make our decisions.”
“I just found out I needed some shots for my upcoming trip to Kuwait. I was able to get an appointment within a week and at my appointment everything was accomplished. I got my shots, prescriptions, information, etc. The nurse, was fabulous and so helpful. I had an AMAZING experience and will definitely be recommending Passport Health to any of my friends with upcoming travel. Thank you for everything. I really, really appreciate it!!”
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