Kuwait...Exploring the Middle East One Country at a Time

So, one of the amazing things about living in this part of the world and having the job that I have, is that we are traveling to countries we would not normally think to travel to. As you all know, we spent Christmas in Oman, Easter in Egypt, and this past week we were in Kuwait. While the first two trips were for holiday, our excursion to Kuwait was motivated by work.

Kuwait served as the host for the 6th Middle East North Africa Renewable Energy Conference (or MENAREC). IRENA was one of several co-organizers and I had the distinct honor of serving as a speaker for several sessions, so we all packed up and headed to Kuwait.

A few things to note about the region and Kuwait in particular. First, is that the UAE is pretty relaxed culturally. A fact that I was reminded of once we arrived in Kuwait. We live in an apartment building, not a compound, and while I do not wear shorts and tank tops around, I can wear a bathing suit in our pool and at the beach. In Kuwait, there were pilot signs on the nightstand in the hotel that if women wanted to swim in the main pool, they needed to wear appropriate attire (see below). If one wanted to wear "western" swimwear, then they could do so in the Ladies Lounge, a completely secluded pool and beach area for women only.

Hotel appropriate swimwear in Kuwait.

The other point to note, which we were not aware of prior to arrival, is that Kuwait is a completely dry country. Unlike the UAE, where you can get alcohol at hotels, fully licensed restaurants, and liquor stores (with a license, of course), in Kuwait it is illegal to possess or consume alcohol.

While our time in Kuwait was limited, we met a really nice American family while waiting for our visas. They live in Kuwait and were very happy to meet other Americans, so Stan and Q arranged for a play date that week. We also witnessed some incredible sunrises (see below) and enjoyed one of the best seafood buffets ever. We also got to see an old friend from the States (shout out to Lauren), who we are excited to host in Abu Dhabi next year.

Good morning Kuwait!!

The sunrise speaks for itself...

Check out the presentation on that smoked salmon.

While I am very glad we had the chance to experience Kuwait, our trip there made me appreciate the UAE and Abu Dhabi in particular all the more. We are lucky to live in a place that invests in its people and its country the way the UAE does. We are never at a loss for things to do and experiences to enjoy.