Moving to Kuwait from UAE

The most common pathway for expats is the Kuwait work visa for UAE residents. This visa is employer-sponsored, and you’ll need a confirmed job offer before the process can begin. Once your application is approved, an entry visa is issued, allowing you to begin the Kuwait residence permit process upon arrival. This includes fingerprinting, a health check, and issuance of your Civil ID (Iqama).

Documents typically include a valid passport, passport-sized photos, attested academic certificates, a signed employment contract, a UAE residence visa copy, and medical test results. For those relocating with family, marriage and birth certificates (attested) are also required. Khimji Ramdas Relocation Services provides full documentation support to help you gather and organize everything required for visa and residency processing.

Start with a pre-move survey to estimate volume, shipping method (land, sea, or air), and insurance needs. Items should be grouped, inventoried, and packed by professionals—especially if fragile, valuable, or oversized. Personal effects like furniture, electronics, and appliances are commonly shipped when moving to Kuwait from UAE.

Shipping household items to Kuwait requires a detailed inventory list, proof of residence or work visa, and a valid passport. Kuwait has strict restrictions on items like alcohol, pork products, religious texts not aligned with local customs, and prescription drugs without documentation. Khimji Ramdas Relocation Services ensures full compliance with customs laws and coordinates clearance to prevent costly delays.

While some employers provide health insurance, many expats arriving in Kuwait start with a temporary travel insurance policy for the initial weeks. Once the residence permit is issued, you’ll be eligible for either public healthcare (with a health card) or a private plan, depending on your preference and employer package.

Kuwait’s healthcare system is well-organized, offering affordable services with shorter queues than in UAE. Public clinics handle routine care, while private hospitals are preferred for specialist treatment. Our relocation advisors assist clients in reviewing, comparing, and securing both interim and long-term insurance policies suited to their needs.

Popular school zones for expats include Salwa, Hawally, and Jabriya, each home to international schools offering British, American, Indian, and IB curricula. Proximity to school plays a major role in daily convenience and family logistics, so housing decisions should ideally align with educational needs.

To enroll your children, schools typically require passport copies, residence documents, past academic records, immunization reports, and a transfer certificate. Some schools may require entrance assessments or interviews. Khimji Ramdas Relocation Services works closely with families to shortlist schools, prepare documents, and facilitate smooth admission processes.

It’s wise to open a local Kuwaiti bank account as soon as your Civil ID is issued. Until then, ensure you have sufficient Kuwaiti Dinars (KWD) or a globally accepted debit/credit card. Many UAE banks offer cross-border services, but transaction fees may apply.

Initial relocation costs include visa fees, insurance premiums, school enrollment, housing deposits, and transport arrangements. Having 2–3 months of financial buffer ensures a smooth transition. Our team helps you estimate these expenses upfront and create a relocation budget plan tailored to your move.

When you first arrive in Kuwait, it’s best to begin with short-term or serviced accommodation. Areas like Salmiya, Fintas, and Mangaf offer furnished apartments with flexible leases, ideal while you finalize your residence permit or wait for your family to join. These setups often include housekeeping, internet, and utility costs, offering convenience during the settling-in period.

Foreigners in Kuwait typically rent rather than buy, as property ownership is highly restricted for non-Kuwaiti nationals. Rental contracts are usually annual, with one month’s deposit and post-dated cheques. Whether you choose an apartment or villa, you’ll find Kuwait’s rental market offers excellent value compared to UAE. Khimji Ramdas Relocation Services assists clients with housing searches, lease negotiations, and move-in coordination.

Before relocating, research industries in demand such as oil & gas, construction, finance, healthcare, education, and IT. Kuwait is actively localizing its workforce, but skilled expats are still in demand—especially those with GCC experience. Platforms like Bayt, LinkedIn, and local agencies are useful starting points.

For many regulated professions, attested academic and professional documents are mandatory. Employers may request UAE references and proof of previous experience in similar roles. Khimji Ramdas Relocation Services can assist you in credential verification and even help connect you to recruitment consultants prior to your move.

Kuwait experiences hot, dry summers and mild winters. Lightweight, breathable clothing is ideal, though modesty is essential—especially in government offices, public spaces, and mosques. Workplaces typically follow formal or business-casual dress codes. Expat life in Kuwait involves adapting to seasonal shifts, with outdoor life booming during cooler months.

Kuwaitis are warm, family-oriented, and deeply rooted in Islamic traditions. Social norms include respecting elders, dressing modestly, and observing local customs during religious periods. While English is widely spoken, learning basic Arabic phrases helps with daily interactions. Participating in community events and respecting traditions builds trust and smoothens integration.

If you’re relocating to Kuwait from UAE, you can drive initially on your UAE license or an International Driving Permit (IDP). Once your residence is issued, you’ll need to convert your license to a Kuwaiti one. The process includes a vision test, document verification, and submission to the traffic department.

While Kuwait has a basic public bus system, most expats rely on personal vehicles. Leasing is ideal for short stays, while buying offers better long-term value. Petrol is inexpensive, and the road network is well-maintained. Our relocation team can assist with choosing the best option, help with documentation, and even connect you with trusted dealerships.

Book your flight only after your entry visa is approved. Flights from UAE to Kuwait are short and frequent. Most airlines allow 30–40kg baggage, but additional shipping may be needed for large household items. Pack key documents like your passport, visa, employment contract, tenancy agreement, and school records in your carry-on.

Before leaving the UAE, wrap up your tenancy, close utility and internet accounts, transfer or close bank accounts, and notify schools or employers. If you’re relocating with Khimji Ramdas Relocation Services, we’ll provide a customized UAE exit checklist to help you finalize everything before you fly—ensuring a clean break and a smooth arrival in Kuwait.