Kuwait is a country located at the base of the Arabian Peninsula.
It faces the Persian Gulf to the east, borders Iraq to the north, and Saudi Arabia to the south.
Known as one of the world's leading oil-producing countries, it is a wealthy nation.
With good public safety, it is recommended for both tourism and business.
When it comes to souvenirs from Kuwait, dates — a popular treat in the Middle East — are often coated in chocolate and make great gifts.
Arabic-scripted handicrafts are also highly recommended.
Here, we’d like to introduce some of the top recommended tourist souvenirs from Kuwait.
1. Dates (Natsumeyashi)
When it comes to specialties of the Middle East, “natsumeyashi,” or dates in English, are a staple. This dried fruit is a common sweet eaten daily in Kuwait. Since several thousand years before Christ, it has been a cherished source of nutrition for people living in the desert. With high nutritional value, dates are often the first food consumed to break the fast during Ramadan. They are known for their diet benefits, digestive regulation, immune system boosting, and antioxidant properties — making them a very healthy food.
In Kuwait, dates are sold everywhere — in supermarkets, markets, and more. But when it comes to premium date brands, Bateel stands out. While its main store is in Saudi Arabia, Bateel's dates are considered top quality and are extremely popular throughout the Middle East. They are on the pricier side, but definitely a must-try if you visit Kuwait for tourism or business.
2. Gold Products
One of Kuwait’s sightseeing spots is the Gold Souk, an area lined with shops selling gold products. The glittering display of accessories in the shop windows is worth seeing. Many items are intricately crafted, and you’ll find stylish items like pendants, earrings, and tie pins. They make perfect souvenirs for yourself or your family!
The Gold Souk is located within a market area where clothing and groceries are also sold. There are restaurants as well, making it a great place to stroll and explore while sightseeing. Be sure to stop by when visiting Kuwait.
3. Patchi Chocolates
While not a uniquely Kuwaiti confection, Patchi chocolates are one of the most popular souvenirs in the Middle East. The flagship store is in Lebanon, but Patchi has outlets across the Middle East, including inside major shopping centers in Kuwait.
Patchi chocolates are known to be a favorite among Middle Eastern royalty. With a luxurious storefront and stylish packaging, they stand out among the many sweet offerings of the region. Patchi’s chocolates are known for their refined sweetness. Varieties with nuts are especially popular, but milk and dark chocolates are also available — making them a perfect gift for anyone.
4. Handicrafts
Handicrafts also make great souvenirs from Kuwait. Classic souvenirs like logo T-shirts, keychains, postcards, and mugs are popular, especially when written in Arabic script — which adds an exotic touch. Other recommended items include dolls in traditional attire and camel figurines, symbolic of the Middle East.
For souvenir shopping, it's best to visit the souks (bazaars) or air-conditioned shopping malls. Representative malls include Sharq Market, Marina Mall, and Salhiya Complex. These places also have food courts, so you can enjoy sightseeing and shopping at your leisure.
◎ Summary
While Kuwait may not have many uniquely local souvenirs, it gathers specialties from across the Middle East. Dates and chocolates are especially recommended. Arabic-style cups and plates are also great gift items. Supermarkets sell a wide variety of sweet Middle Eastern treats, so it’s worth checking them out. Unusual spices also make excellent souvenirs. All of these can also be found at the airport. When visiting Kuwait for sightseeing or business, be sure to find some wonderful souvenirs!