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Kuwait is located in the northeastern corner of the Arabian Peninsula and at the head of the Persian Gulf . It is bound by Iraq to the north and west, Saudi Arabia to the south and the Persian Gulf to the east. Its territory includes the mainland and nine offshore islands including, Faylakah and Bubiyan. The country is almost entirely flat desert except for the Jal az Zor escarpment to the west of Kuwait Bay . The central part of the country is separated from the coastal plain by the high Ahmadi Ridge. The country is drained by numerous wadi systems and the terrain is generally stony with sparse vegetation cover consisting of shrubs and grasses.
Kuwait has an arid subtropical climate characterized by extremely hot and dry conditions during summer from May to October. Winter from November to April is generally pleasant with occasional night temperatures nearing freezing point. Average annual precipitation varies from 30 mm to 220 mm with most rainfall occurring between November and April. The Shamal, a strong sand and dust storm occurs frequently in summer. Average temperature ranges in Kuwait City range from 8 to 18 degrees Celsius in winter to 29 to 45 degrees Celsius in summer.
The majority of native-born Kuwaitis, who account for around 52% of the population, are Arab descendants of the Anaiza tribe from Saudi Arabia . Around 45% of the population are other Arabs, 5% are Indian and Pakistani while 4% are Iranian. There is also a small number of Black Africans and Asians.
The official religion is Islam with 63% of the population Sunni Muslims while around 27% are Shiite Muslims. Around 8% of the population are Christians and 2% are Hindu.
The official language is Arabic, although English is taught as a second language and is used for commerce purposes.
The unit of currency is the Kuwait Dinar (KD): KD1 = 1,000 fils. The denominations of bank notes are: KD20, 10, 5, 1, 0.500 and 0.250; those of coins are 100 fils, 50, 20, 10, 5 and 1. KD1 is equal to approximately US$3.3.
Capital of the country is Kuwait City .
Kuwait has a very rich cultural tradition and heritage. Visitors to the country can get a glimpse of these at the fascinating places of Tourist Attraction.
The shopping experience in Kuwait , too, is very rewarding. From ancient souks to sprawling malls selling the latest consumer goods, the range and variety is huge.
The transport system is ultramodern with all the latest features and facilities.
Kuwaitis are warm, hospitable, friendly and helpful, which makes a visit to the country a very enriching and memorable experience.
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