Essential Rules to Remember While Driving in Kuwait

Driving in Kuwait is fast-paced, and local rules and regulations may differ from those in the driver’s home country. Roads are well-maintained, but common are aggressive driving & sudden lane changes. For ease of navigation, expats should learn traffic etiquette, road sign meanings, & defensive driving practices. Being acquainted with the culture on the road can help you stay safe and avoid unnecessary confrontation.

Driving License For Expatriates in Kuwait

Expatriates in Kuwait must meet specific eligibility criteria to apply for a driving license, including valid residency & a qualifying profession. After completing the required documents & eye tests, applicants must book an Online Driving Test Appointment through the MOI website. Passing the test is mandatory to receive the license.

Mandatory Documents You Must Carry

The drivers must have with them, at all times, essential documents, including a valid driving license, car registration (istimara), and a civil ID. The traffic police carry out random checks at any time, and the absence of these documents could attract fines or legal disputes. It’s always a good idea to keep both physical and digital copies in the vehicle for easy access during inspections.

Speed Limits and Traffic Fines Overview

Speed limits vary depending on the type of road, usually ranging from 45 to 60 km/h in urban areas and 120 km/h on high-speed highways. Kuwait has a hefty penalty for speeding offenses, including fines, license suspension, and, for persistent offenders, even vehicle impoundment. Fixed and mobile speed cameras abound – it’s essential to stick to the limit to avoid breaking the law.

Seat Belt and Child Safety Seat Regulations

Seatbelts must be worn by all car occupants, regardless of their position. For children under 10, it is mandatory to sit in the back and wear an approved child safety seat. These safety regulations warrant fixed penalties that are paid on the spot. Authorities are very serious about enforcement to protect families and to lessen the injuries sustained during accidents.

Mobile Phone Use While Driving Restrictions

Using a mobile phone while operating a motor vehicle is illegal, unless it is used with a hands-free device. Offenses involving texting or browsing while driving are considered very serious and may attract fines and demerit points on the violator’s driving license. According to the New Driving License Rules in Kuwait, the fine for using a phone while driving has been increased significantly.

Zero Tolerance for Drunk Driving

Kuwait has a zero-drunk-driving policy. With even unbearably small traces of alcohol in your blood, you could be arrested, jailed, and fined handsomely, with possible deportation for an expatriate. This is due to the police maintaining an active presence and conducting checks on the roads, most especially at night and on holidays.

Right-of-Way Rules at Roundabouts

The Roundabout right-of-way rule claims that vehicles in the circle have the right-of-way. Still, don’t expect this to be strictly followed, so drive carefully and try to make eye contact with other drivers. Indicate all exits and yield to the left unless another sign indicates otherwise. Awareness can help prevent an accident from happening.

Prohibited Behaviors (Dangerous Overtaking, etc.)

Dangerous driving maneuvers include tailgating, overtaking on the right-hand side, continuous honking, and racing, which are severely opposed and can result in fines. Not only does it endanger lives, but it can also lead to legal troubles, such as having your vehicle towed or your license suspended. Always drive responsibly and follow lane discipline.

Driving Etiquette in Kuwait for Expatriates

The following list includes the most essential driving etiquette in Kuwait for expatriates:

• Respect the Local Driving Habits: Kuwaitis drive aggressively, change lanes suddenly, and use signals less often. Therefore, expat drivers must be calm and not aggressive, with a tolerance for being in the middle of the road, rather than getting into quarrels and accidents.
  
• Use of Horn and Signals: To avoid using the horn excessively, especially when you are in a noisy, residential, or quiet area. Always use a turn signal when making lane changes and turns. Explicit signaling is appreciated and helps you blend better into Kuwait’s driving environment.
  
• Lane Discipline and Roundabouts: Remain in your lane so as not to be overtaken from the right. At roundabouts, unless otherwise marked, priority goes to vehicles already inside the roundabout. Driving defensively, though, is a must because this is one of those few areas where poor lane discipline is found.
  
• Handling Aggressive Drivers: Move safely aside without engaging with tailgating or aggressive-driving drivers with flashing lights. Aggressive responses can escalate such situations, especially in a culturally sensitive context like Kuwait.
  
• Parking Issues: Always park in a space marked and designated for parking vehicles. Double parking, blocking entrances, or using an accessible bay without proper authorization will be frowned upon, especially since it may result in fines or towing of your vehicle.
  
• Cultural Sensitivity on the Road: No arguments or altercations with locals. A calm and respectful demeanor goes a long way in avoiding unnecessary trouble. Keep them polite with other drivers, even in minor accidents or incidents.
  
• Patience at a Traffic Jam: Heavy traffic, particularly during peak hours, is common. Be patient, no blowing of horns, and keep a safe distance. Aggressive maneuvering won’t get you anywhere and could create stress or put others in danger.

What to Do in Case of an Accident

In the event of an accident, the vehicle must be stopped immediately with its hazard lights on. Police should be notified, and cars should not be moved unless they pose a further hazard. Exchange details with the other party involved and record the scene of the accident. A police report is necessary for official documentation and repair procedures.

Conclusion

Aspiring drivers in Kuwait will undergo challenges, and with a fair amount of rule-following, they can have a safe and stress-free experience. Kuwait How provides a comprehensive guide to everything an expatriate needs when driving on the country’s roads. The law protects an individual’s access to their information.