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 travellers 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?
Canadian Embassy in Kuwait
Do I Need Vaccines for Kuwait?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Kuwait. The PHAC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Kuwait: typhoid, hepatitis A, polio, rabies, hepatitis B, influenza, 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 travellers. - Polio –
Food & Water –
Due to an increase in cases globally, an additional adult booster is recommended for most travellers to any destination. - Rabies –
Saliva of Infected Animals –
High risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-term travellers and those who may come in contact with animals. - Hepatitis B –
Blood & Body Fluids –
Recommended for travellers 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 travellers. |
| Polio | Food & Water | Due to an increase in cases globally, an additional adult booster is recommended for most travellers to any destination. |
| Rabies | Saliva of Infected Animals | High risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-term travellers and those who may come in contact with animals. |
| Hepatitis B | Blood & Body Fluids | Recommended for travellers 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 travellers 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 travellers.
- 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 PHAC travel recommendations. Currently, there is no vaccination or specific antiviral treatment for MERS.
Do I Need a Visa for Kuwait?
A passport which is valid for at least 6 months from the expected date of departure is required to enter the country. A visa is required for all business and tourism purposes. A tourist visa may be obtained on arrival but a business visa must be obtained from an embassy/ consulate prior to arrival. A return or onward ticket is required to obtain a transit visa.
Kuwait Entry Requirements |
||
| Do I Need A… | For My Trip to Kuwait? | |
|---|---|---|
| Passport |  |
|
| Tourist Visa | |
|
| Business Visa | |
|
| Vaccinations | ||
Sources: Embassy of Kuwait and Canadian Travel and Tourism
Visit the Canadian Travel and Tourism website for more information on entry and exit requirements.
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 45C. Winters are cooler, between 7C and 17C.
- 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 travellers, 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 travellers. 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. Travellers will likely be outside exploring, making sunscreen a must.
Canadian Embassy to Kuwait
Canadian consular services can help travellers with many issues they may face including passport services. Once in Kuwait, the information for the Canadian Embassy is:
Embassy of Canada to Kuwait
Villa 24, Block 4, 24 Al-Mutawakkal Street
Da’aiyah, Kuwait City, Kuwait
Telephone: 965 2256-3025
Ready to start your next journey? Call us at or book online now!
Customer Reviews
Passport Health – Travel Vaccines for Kuwait
“Very efficient. Easy to schedule, no waiting and the nurse was knowledgeable, friendly and thorough.”
“Very friendly and knowledgeable nurse and the session took less than half an hour. Lots of specific information on Kuwait. Very impressed!”
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