Fly to Kuwait City for £78 and Experience Extreme Heat

Reaching the hottest city in the world is possible this month for just £78. Kuwait City, known for its extreme heat, recently recorded a staggering temperature of 53.9°C in Mitribah on July 21, a measurement verified by the World Meteorological Organization as the highest ever documented in Asia. While the prospect of visiting such a scorching urban center may appeal to some, experts recommend planning trips during the cooler winter or spring months.

During January, when temperatures drop, the average thermometer reading hovers around 20°C, making it a more comfortable time to explore the city. For those looking to escape the cold UK weather for some Kuwaiti sunshine, flight prices are relatively low. According to Skyscanner, return flights from London are available for £78 this January, with fares from cities like Bristol, Birmingham, and Manchester also under £100.

Living with Extreme Heat

Kuwait City holds the title of the planet’s hottest urban area, and its residents have adapted to cope with the relentless heat. Waleed Alkhamees, a lifelong resident and tour guide, notes that many locals prefer to stay indoors where air conditioning reigns supreme. “Everybody is trying to keep indoors, as everywhere in Kuwait is air-conditioned,” he explained. During the summer months, businesses often shut down, and a law prohibits outdoor work from 10:00 to 17:00, pushing laborers to work during the cooler hours of the night.

Despite these regulations, Waleed observes that workers, often new immigrants, sometimes defy the heat and the ban to labor outdoors, often covered from head to toe for protection against the sun. He has witnessed an increase in average yearly temperatures, stating, “It is hotter and hotter every year.” The state heavily subsidizes electricity, allowing the city’s approximately 3.3 million residents to run their air conditioning units continuously.

The government’s initiative to ban outdoor work during the hottest parts of the day aims to prevent health hazards associated with extreme temperatures. However, enforcement of this rule can be inconsistent.

Tourism and Attractions in Kuwait City

For tourists willing to brave the heat, Kuwait City offers several attractions. The iconic Kuwait Towers stand as a symbol of the city’s wealth, while the Grand Mosque and the old Souk are also popular destinations. Waleed’s tour groups are typically comprised of about 80% Americans, reflecting the influence of the substantial US military presence in the region, particularly the Camp Arifjan installation located in southeastern Kuwait.

Tours operate even during the sweltering months of June and July, with visitors generally remaining inside air-conditioned vehicles. Those looking for a cold beverage in the evening may be disappointed, as Kuwait enforces a strict prohibition on alcohol, even in hotels frequented by international guests.

The city’s extensive sandy coastline presents an attractive option for sun-seekers, offering some of the longest beaches in the Middle East and prime diving spots. Despite the oppressive heat that can cause pigeons to avoid flight and adversely affect marine life, Waleed insists that Kuwaitis are not considering leaving their home.

“Kuwait City has gotten hotter for years now,” he expressed. “But we won’t move away. There are lots of benefits in Kuwait.” He highlights the high value of the Kuwaiti currency, the absence of taxes, and the government subsidies for essential services like healthcare and education, which make living in Kuwait appealing.

With conditions increasingly challenging due to climate change, Waleed remains hopeful about the future. “I’m worried about global warming,” he admits, noting the gradual increase of half a degree every few years. Yet, the allure of Kuwait’s advantages keeps residents firmly rooted in their sun-scorched city.