Dreaming of a career or education in Kuwait, but worried about the budget? Balancing high salaries with living costs is the biggest challenge for Indians moving to the Gulf. This guide breaks down every expense, from rent in Salmiya to your monthly grocery bill, so you can plan your move with confidence.
Cost of Living in Kuwait: Monthly Budget (Single Person) in 2026
| Expense Category | Average Monthly Cost (KWD) | Average Monthly Cost (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodation (Shared) | 120 KWD | ₹34,872 |
| Food & Groceries | 80 KWD | ₹23,248 |
| Transportation | 30 KWD | ₹8,718 |
| Utilities & Internet | 25 KWD | ₹7,265 |
| Personal & Leisure | 45 KWD | ₹13,077 |
| Estimated Total | 300 KWD | ₹87,180 |
Average Rent and Accommodation Costs in Kuwait for Indians (City Centre & Outside)
Housing will be your biggest expense in Kuwait. Costs vary significantly based on the location, size, and type of apartment. Areas like Salmiya and Hawally are popular among Indian expats and students due to their vibrant communities and access to amenities.
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A one-bedroom apartment in the city centre can cost between 200 KWD and 375 KWD per month. Outside the city centre, a similar apartment might range from 160 KWD to 260 KWD. For families, a three-bedroom apartment in the city centre typically costs between 400 KWD and 750 KWD.
Apartment Types & Average Rent: City Centre vs Outside
Here is a general breakdown of monthly rental costs:
| Apartment Type | Rent in City Centre (KWD) | Rent Outside City Centre (KWD) |
|---|---|---|
| 1-Bedroom Apartment | 266 KWD (approx. ₹77,300) | 203 KWD (approx. ₹58,992) |
| 3-Bedroom Apartment | 530 KWD (approx. ₹1,54,018) | 415 KWD (approx. ₹1,20,599) |
Student Housing in Kuwait: Shared Rooms & Affordable Options for Indian Students
For students, the most budget-friendly option is sharing an apartment, which can significantly reduce costs. A room in a shared flat in student-heavy areas like Salmiya can cost between 100 KWD and 150 KWD (₹29,060 to ₹43,590) per month. Many universities also offer on-campus housing, which is convenient but can sometimes be more expensive than private, shared accommodation.
Food & Grocery Costs in Kuwait for Indians: Monthly Expenses
Your monthly food bill will depend on your lifestyle, whether you prefer cooking at home or dining out. For a single person who primarily cooks at home, the average grocery bill can be around 80 KWD (₹23,248) per month.
Shopping at local markets, or "souks," for fresh produce can be more affordable than buying from large hypermarkets. Here’s a look at the average cost of common grocery items:
| Grocery Item | Average Cost (KWD) | Average Cost (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Milk (1 litre) | 0.44 KWD | ₹127.86 |
| Loaf of Bread (500g) | 0.26 KWD | ₹75.56 |
| Rice (1 kg) | 0.60 KWD | ₹174.36 |
| Eggs (12) | 0.73 KWD | ₹212.14 |
| Chicken Fillets (1 kg) | 1.80 KWD | ₹523.08 |
| Apples (1 kg) | 0.68 KWD | ₹197.61 |
| Potatoes (1 kg) | 0.37 KWD | ₹107.52 |
Dining out can range from budget-friendly to expensive. A meal at an inexpensive local restaurant costs about 2.5 KWD (₹726.50), while a three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant can be around 16 KWD (₹4649.63).
For those missing the taste of home, Kuwait has a vibrant culinary scene with plenty of options for authentic Indian food. You can find everything from budget-friendly eateries to mid-range restaurants. Popular spots like Mughal Mahal and Thakkara, which specialises in Malabari cuisine, are favourites among the Indian community, offering delicious meals at reasonable prices.
Transportation Costs in Kuwait for Indians: Buses, Taxis & Fuel Prices (2026)
Kuwait has a well-developed road network, but public transport options are mainly limited to buses. The Kuwait Public Transport Company (KPTC) operates routes across the country.
- Public Bus: A single bus ticket costs around 0.30 KWD (₹87.18). A monthly pass is a more economical option for regular commuters, costing about 15 KWD (₹4,359).
- Taxis and Ride-Sharing: Taxis are widely available. The starting tariff is typically 1 KWD (₹290.60). Ride-sharing apps like Careem are also popular and offer competitive pricing.
- Owning a Car: While many expats choose to buy a car, it is generally not a feasible option for students. Fuel is heavily subsidised, with gasoline costing around 0.10 KWD (₹29.06) per litre.
Utilities, Internet & Essentials: Monthly Expenses for Indians in Kuwait
Beyond rent, food, and transport, you'll need to budget for several other essential expenses.
- Utilities: Basic utilities, including electricity, water, and cooling for a standard 85m² apartment, average around 16 KWD (₹4650) per month. In many rental agreements, these costs are included in the rent.
- Mobile & Internet: A mobile plan with calls and 10GB+ data typically costs around 6 KWD (₹1744) per month. A high-speed internet connection at home will cost about 9.5 KWD (₹2760.72) per month.
- Health Insurance: Health insurance is mandatory for all expatriates and international students in Kuwait. Plans vary in coverage and cost, but you should budget for this essential expense.
- Leisure and Entertainment: Costs for leisure activities vary. A cinema ticket costs about 3.5 KWD (₹1017), while a monthly gym membership is around 30 KWD (₹8,718).
Cost of Living in Kuwait vs. Dubai for Indians (Rent, Food, Transport)
Many Indians weigh their options between Kuwait and other Gulf countries like the UAE. Generally, the cost of living in Kuwait is more affordable than in Dubai. While rent can be similar, daily expenses for food, transportation, and utilities are often lower in Kuwait. However, Dubai offers a wider range of entertainment and job opportunities, which can lead to higher overall spending.
Cost of Living in Kuwait vs. India for Indians
When comparing the cost of living, Kuwait is significantly more expensive than major Indian cities. On average, consumer prices (including rent) in Kuwait can be over 100% higher than in India. For example, renting an apartment in Kuwait City can be more than 300% more expensive than a similar property in cities like Bangalore or Delhi.
However, this higher cost is often balanced by substantially higher average salaries. The monthly average wage for a skilled professional in Kuwait is around ₹2,00,000, which is considerably more than the average salary in India. This difference in earning potential allows many Indian expats to manage the higher expenses while still achieving their savings goals.
Tips for Indians to Save Money in Kuwait
- Cook at Home: Dining out frequently can quickly add up. Cooking your meals is the most effective way to save money on food.
- Use Public Transport: If you live and work along a bus route, using public transportation instead of taxis can save you a significant amount each month.
- Choose Shared Accommodation: Especially for singles and students, sharing an apartment is the best way to cut down on your largest monthly expense.
- Shop at Local Markets: For fresh produce and groceries, local souks often offer better prices and a more authentic experience than large supermarkets.
- Look for Discounts: Many shops and restaurants offer promotions and discounts, especially for students. Always ask if a student discount is available.
Final Thoughts: Is Moving to Kuwait the Right Choice for You?
Moving to Kuwait offers incredible opportunities, but it requires careful financial planning. While the cost of living is higher than in India, the tax-free salaries provide significant savings potential. By cooking at home, using public transport, and opting for shared housing, you can manage your expenses effectively.
The key is to balance your budget against your earning potential to make the most of your time abroad.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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How much money is enough for a student in Kuwait per month?
An Indian student generally needs between 280 KWD to 350 KWD (approximately ₹81,368 to ₹1,01,710) per month. This budget covers shared accommodation, food, transportation, and other personal expenses.
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Is Kuwait cheaper than Dubai for Indian students?
Yes, Kuwait is generally considered cheaper than Dubai. Key expenses such as tuition fees, daily groceries, and transportation are often lower in Kuwait.
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What is the average rent for a student in Kuwait?
A student can expect to pay between 100 KWD and 150 KWD (₹29,060 to ₹43,590) per month for a room in a shared apartment in popular areas like Salmiya or Hawally.
-
What is the cost of food in Kuwait in Indian Rupees?
A student who cooks their meals can manage their monthly grocery budget within 80 KWD (around ₹23,248). A single meal at an inexpensive restaurant costs about 2.5 KWD (₹726.50).
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Is Kuwait safe for Indians to work?
Kuwait is generally a safe country for Indians. However, like in any foreign country, workers need to be aware of their rights, local laws, and cultural norms to ensure a safe and positive experience.
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Is 400 KWD a good salary in Kuwait?
A salary of 400 KWD is on the lower end for a comfortable lifestyle, especially if you are living alone and not in shared accommodation. While it's possible to manage, it would require strict budgeting, particularly with rent being a major expense.
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What is the average salary in Kuwait for Indians?
Salaries in Kuwait vary widely based on the profession, skill level, and experience. For skilled professionals, the average monthly salary can range from 900 KWD to over 1,500 KWD (₹2,61,542 to ₹4,35,903) and higher in specialised fields like oil and gas or medicine.
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Is it expensive to live in Kuwait, especially for Indians?
Yes, the cost of living in Kuwait is considerably higher than in India. Key expenses like rent can be up to 300% more expensive. However, essentials like local food and subsidised fuel are affordable, and the higher average salaries for expats often offset the increased costs.
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What is a good salary to live comfortably in Kuwait?
Q. A good salary depends on your lifestyle and family size.
- For a single person: A monthly salary of 700 KWD to 1,000 KWD (approx. ₹2,03,421 to ₹2,90,601) is generally considered good for a comfortable lifestyle, allowing for savings.
- For a family: A salary of 1,500 KWD (approx. ₹4,35,902) or more would be ideal to cover family accommodation, schooling, and other expenses.
- Lower salaries: A salary of 250 KWD (approx. ₹72,650) is very difficult to live on unless accommodation and food are provided by the employer. A salary of 400 KWD (approx. ₹1,16,240) is manageable but requires very strict budgeting. -
How much money do I need per month to live in Kuwait?
- Single Person: A single person can expect to spend around 300-400 KWD (₹87,180 - ₹1,16,240) per month, excluding rent, for a moderate lifestyle. Including rent for a single apartment, the total could be
500-650 KWD (₹1,45,300 - ₹1,88,891).
- Family of Four: Estimated monthly costs for a family, excluding rent, can be around 800 KWD (₹2,32,481).
- Student: A student living in shared accommodation can manage with 280-350 KWD (₹81,368 - ₹1,01,710) per month. -
Is income in Kuwait tax-free for Indians?
Yes, one of the major attractions of working in Kuwait is its tax-free income policy. Expats, including Indians, do not pay personal income tax on their salaries, which significantly boosts savings potential.
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How much is rent in Kuwait?
Rental prices vary by location and apartment size. A one-bedroom apartment in the city centre costs around 266 KWD (₹77,300), while outside the city it's about 203 KWD (₹58,992). A three-bedroom apartment in the city centre averages 530 KWD (₹1,54,018) per month.
-
Is Kuwait a safe country for Indian expats and families?
Kuwait is generally considered a safe and secure country with low crime rates, making it a good place for Indian expats and families. Indian workers are often well-regarded for their work ethic.
However, it's vital to be aware of local laws and cultural norms rooted in Islamic tradition. Some workers have reported issues like withheld salaries or long working hours, so it is crucial to work with reputable employers and understand your legal rights. -
What are the visa requirements for Indians moving to Kuwait?
- Work Visa: For employment, the employer or sponsor in Kuwait is responsible for obtaining the work permit and entry visa for the employee. The process is initiated by the employer through the Public Authority for Manpower (PAM).
- Student Visa: To get a student visa, you must first receive an admission offer from a recognised Kuwaiti institution. You then apply at the Kuwaiti embassy in India with your passport, admission letter, medical reports, and proof of financial stability. The specific costs associated with visas can vary and should be confirmed with the embassy or your employer.
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