Discover the Charms of Hawalli: Kuwait's Hidden Gem

• Helloمرحبا
  [marhaban]
• Goodbyeوداعا
  [wadaeana]
• Yesنعم
  [naam]
• Noلا
  [laa]
• Please/You're welcomeمن فضلك
  [min fadlak]
• Thank youشكرا لك
  [shukran lak]
• Excuse me/Sorryعذرا
  [atharaan]
• How are you?كيف حالك؟
  [kayfa halak?]
• Fine. And you?بخير. وأنت؟
  [bi khayr. wa anta?]
• Do you speak English?هل تتكلم الإنجليزية؟
  [hal tatakallam al'inglizia?]
• I don't understandلا أفهم
  [laa afham]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseأريد رؤية القائمة، من فضلك
  [urid ru'ya alqaimah, min fadlak]
• I don't eat meatأنا لا أتناول اللحم
  [ana la atnaul allahm]
• Cheers!في صحتك!
  [fi sahtak!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseأود أن أدفع، من فضلك
  [awad an adfae, min fadlak]

• Help!النجدة!
  [alnajdah!]
• Go away!اذهب بعيدا!
  [idhab baeedan!]
• Call the Police!اتصل بالشرطة!
  [atassil bialshurtah!]
• Call a doctor!اتصل بطبيب!
  [atassil bitabib!]
• I'm lostلقد ضللت
  [laqad dalalt]
• I'm illأنا مريض
  [ana mareed]

• I'd like to buy...أريد أن أشتري...
  [urid an ashtari...]
• I'm just lookingأنا فقط أتطلع
  [ana faqat atatala]
• How much is it?كم سعره؟
  [kam saarah?]
• That's too expensiveهذا غالي جدا
  [haza ghali jiddan]
• Can you lower the price?هل يمكنك خفض السعر؟
  [hal yumkinuk khafdh alsar?]

• What time is it?كم الساعة؟
  [kam alsaaah?]
• It's one o'clockالساعة الواحدة
  [alsaaah alwahidah]
• Half past (10)النصف بعد (10)
  [alnusf baed (10)]
• Morningصباح
  [subah]
• Afternoonبعد الظهر
  [baed aldhuhur]
• Eveningمساء
  [masaa]
• Yesterdayالأمس
  [al'ams]
• Todayاليوم
  [alyawm]
• Tomorrowغدا
  [ghadan]
• 1واحد
  [wahid]
• 2اثنان
  [ithnan]
• 3ثلاثة
  [thalathah]
• 4أربعة
  [arbaah]
• 5خمسة
  [khamsah]
• 6ستة
  [sittah]
• 7سبعة
  [sabahah]
• 8ثمانية
  [thamaniah]
• 9تسعة
  [tis'ah]
• 10عشرة
  [asharah]

• Where's a/the...?أين هو/هي...؟
  [ayn huwa/hiya...?]
• What's the address?ما هو العنوان؟
  [ma huwa al'anaan?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?هل يمكنك أن تريني (على الخريطة)؟
  [hal yumkinuk an tureeni (ala alkhareetah)?]
• When's the next (bus)?متى يكون الحافلة التالية؟
  [mata yukun alhafilat altaliat?]
• A ticket (to ....)تذكرة (إلى ....)
  [tathkirah (ila ....)]

Long before modern developments, the area now known as Hawalli was primarily a small fishing and pearling village. Its strategic location on the coast of the Persian Gulf made it an ideal spot for such activities. Early settlers took advantage of the bountiful marine resources and the fertile land, establishing a community that would slowly evolve over centuries.

The early to mid-20th century was a period of significant transformation for Hawalli. With the discovery of oil in Kuwait in 1938, the region saw rapid economic growth and urban development. Hawalli transitioned from a quiet coastal village to a bustling suburban district. Infrastructure such as roads, schools, and hospitals began to spring up, reflecting the newfound prosperity brought by the oil boom.

Hawalli became known as a cultural melting pot in the latter half of the 20th century, attracting expatriates from all over the world. This influx brought diverse cultures, traditions, and cuisines to the area. The district's vibrant multicultural atmosphere is evident in its variety of restaurants, shops, and community events, making it a unique blend of Kuwaiti and international influences.

Hawalli is renowned for its educational institutions. Home to numerous schools, colleges, and universities, the district has earned a reputation as an educational hub in Kuwait. Institutions such as the American University of Kuwait and the New English School have attracted students from across the region, contributing to the district's dynamic and youthful energy.

Today, Hawalli stands as one of Kuwait's most dynamic districts. It boasts a mix of residential, commercial, and recreational areas, with modern amenities and facilities. The district is known for its shopping centers, such as Al Othman Complex and Hawalli Park, as well as its parks and cultural centers. This modern infrastructure coexists with historical sites, creating a unique blend of old and new.

Hawalli is a district in the Kuwait Governorate of the same name. The nearest international airport is Kuwait International Airport (KWI), located approximately 20 kilometers away. From the airport, you can take a taxi or use a ride-hailing service to reach Hawalli, which typically takes around 20-30 minutes depending on traffic. Public buses are also available and are a cost-effective option, although they might take longer due to multiple stops.

Hawalli is well-connected by a network of roads and public transportation. Taxis and ride-hailing services like Uber and Careem are widely available and convenient. Public buses operated by the Kuwait Public Transportation Company (KPTC) run throughout the district and are an economical option for getting around. Renting a car is also a viable option if you prefer flexibility, but be aware of local driving conditions and traffic regulations.

The official currency in Kuwait is the Kuwaiti Dinar (KWD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are readily available throughout Hawalli for cash withdrawals. It is advisable to carry some cash for small purchases or in places where card payments are not accepted.

Hawalli is generally a safe area for tourists. However, as with any travel destination, it is important to remain vigilant. Avoid walking alone at night in secluded areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. While crime rates targeting tourists are low, it is always best to stay aware of your surroundings and take standard precautions.

In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance, which connects you to police, fire, and medical services. The local police station and medical facilities are available in Hawalli. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are also available for over-the-counter medications. For medical emergencies, the Mubarak Al-Kabeer Hospital is a well-equipped facility in the area.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially in public places. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions, and be aware that Kuwait is a conservative Muslim country. Public Transport: Do be polite and respectful on public transport. Avoid eating or drinking on buses. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake. Men should avoid shaking hands with women unless the woman extends her hand first. Eating & Drinking: Do try local Kuwaiti cuisine and accept food offerings graciously. Don't consume alcohol in public places, as it is illegal in Kuwait.

To experience Hawalli like a local, visit the Hawalli Park for a relaxing day out with family or friends. Engage with locals in the many cafes and restaurants, where you can enjoy traditional Kuwaiti dishes. Shopping in the local souks (markets) is a must for authentic souvenirs and a taste of the local culture. Don't miss visiting key cultural sites such as the Tareq Rajab Museum and the National Library of Kuwait for a deeper understanding of the area's history and heritage.