Market Facts

Kuwait

  • Population: Approximately 4.5 million (2024), with a majority expat population.
  • Urbanization: Over 75% of the population lives in urban areas, mainly in Kuwait City.
  • Gender Distribution: 60% male, 40% female, reflecting a high number of male expats in the workforce.
  • Age Distribution: 50% of the population is under the age of 34, with a median age of 36 years.
  • Expats vs Locals: Expats make up 70% of the population, primarily from South Asia, the Philippines, and Egypt. Kuwaiti nationals account for around 30%.
  • Literacy Rate: High, at 96%. The country has a well-developed education system, with a focus on secondary and tertiary education.
  • Languages: Arabic (official), English widely spoken in business and expat communities.
  • Key Sectors: Telecom, Oil & Gas, Retail, Financial Services, Healthcare.
  • Digital Penetration: High mobile penetration (over 90%) with growing interest in mobile broadband and 5G services. Increased adoption of mobile banking and digital payments.
  • Consumer Behavior: Consumers in Kuwait are relatively affluent with a strong preference for luxury goods, digital services, and e-commerce. High demand for online shopping and mobile apps in banking, retail, and entertainment.
  • Cultural Nuances: High brand loyalty, particularly for international luxury brands. Family-centric and conservative values shape consumer preferences, but there is also openness to adopting new digital technologies.