Are you aware that Kuwait is home to around 194 Indian students who are interested in higher studies, drawn by its high-quality education and surprisingly affordable living costs?
Imagine obtaining an international degree taught in English that will make you an expert and open doors to high-paying jobs globally. If you’re considering studying abroad after the 12th, here’s why Kuwait could be a splendid choice.
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Some of its esteemed universities are:
| Name of the University | Campus Locations |
| American University of the Middle East | AUM, Kuwait |
| Gulf University for Science and Technology | Kuwait City Campus, Kuwait |
| Kuwait University | Kuwait City, Kuwait |
Here are a couple of interesting facts about Kuwait and Kuwaiti Dinar:
- According to the World Bank, Kuwait is the fifth most prosperous country in terms of
gross national income per capita.
- 70% of Kuwait’s population are expats.
Kuwait offers you a relatively affordable cost of living, balancing modern amenities with manageable expenses. Monthly housing costs can range from INR 57K for a studio in a less expensive area to 365 INR 1L in a pricier location. Transportation, including public transport passes, is also economical, costing around INR 3K monthly.
Food expenses vary based on lifestyle, with an average monthly grocery bill ranging from INR 8K to INR 13K. Overall, the cost of living in Kuwait allows you to enjoy a comfortable and enriching experience. Nevertheless, the Kuwait living expenses are lower than you may think. Look at this guide to find out what it is like in reality.
Key Highlights:
| Expense | Average Cost (INR) |
| Average Cost of Living in Kuwait for Indian Students (without rent) | Around INR 68K |
| Top Universities and Average Tuition Fees | Approx. INR 13L to INR 18L |
| Scholarships to Reduce Cost of Living in Kuwait for Indian Students | Kuwaiti Government Scholarships – Various WMI Scholarships Program 2024 – Partially-funded Education Future International Scholarships – Up to INR 11L GUST Scholarships – Up to INR 5L5. KSCT Merit-Based Scholarships – Basedon academic performance ICGEB Research Grants – Maximum INR 20L |
| Average Rent for 1 Bedroom Apartment for Students | Outside City Centre: INR 56KIn City Centre: INR 76k |
| Average Monthly Food Expenses | Approximately INR 14K |
Explore key highlights, including but not limited to cost of living insights, tuition fees of top universities, and scholarships.Now that you have the numbers out of the way, explore the real gems of studying in Kuwait.
Why Study in Kuwait?
Are you wondering whether you should study in Kuwait or not? Maybe because you have heard of the high cost of living in Kuwait? Here is a list of reasons why you should.
- Quality education in the three above-mentioned renowned universities with a QS Ranking 2024 between 671 and 900 worldwide.
- 14 undergraduate and two postgraduate academic programs in disciplines from engineering to finance to choose from.
- Generous full-funded and partially-funded monetary support through scholarships and financial aids
The following are a few points about the career opportunities and salary scenario for you in Kuwait:
- The thriving local economy offers numerous career opportunities, particularly in critical sectors like oil, gas, and finance.
- The average monthly salary in Kuwait typically ranges between INR 2.7L to INR 8L for lower to mid-range positions.
- Still, it can be significantly higher for you if you come out as a skilled professional, especially in the oil, engineering, or medical fields.
Convinced Kuwait’s worth the educational journey? Great! But where are you going to live? A little about roofs over heads is coming up.
Cost of Living in Kuwait: Housing and Rent
Kuwait has several accommodation options available for you, ranging in price and privacy levels. As a result, finding something that suits your budget and lifestyle preferences becomes feasible.
1. University Housing: Many educational institutions in Kuwait offer convenient dormitories or student complexes, often located on or near the campus. This option facilitates easy access to university resources and promotes social interactions with fellow students.
2. Private Accommodation: Renting private apartments is a popular and appropriate option if you prefer more privacy. A single-bedroom apartment costs from INR 35K to INR 95K per month, depending on whether it’s inside or outside the city centre. Three-bedroom apartments can cost between INR 96K and INR 2L, in case you want to share your space with roommates to split costs.
3. Living with a Kuwaiti Family: Another enriching option is to stay with a Kuwaiti family. This amalgamation provides an immersive cultural experience and can be a more economical choice, as it often includes meals and utilities.
These options provide you a range of choices, allowing you to balance their budget with their preferences for privacy and convenience.
| Apartment Type | Rent per Month |
| Apartment (1 bedroom) in City Centre | INR 71K |
| Apartment (1 bedroom) Outside of Centre | INR 56K |
| Apartment (3 bedroom) in City Centre | INR 1.5L |
| Apartment (3 bedroom) Outside of Centre | INR 1.2L |
After sorting out where you will rest your head, you will need to feed your taste buds. On to the culinary side of things!
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Cost of Living in Kuwait: Food and Groceries
The local food scene in Kuwait offers you a delightful mix of traditional Kuwaiti cuisine and familiar Indian flavours. You can enjoy hearty meals like machboos (spiced rice with meat or fish) and savour Indian dishes at restaurants and eateries nationwide.
According to Gulf News, Kuwait’s diverse culinary culture caters to various tastes and dietary preferences. This availability makes it easier for you to find comfort food while experiencing new flavours.
The cost of imported groceries in Kuwait can be high, but often, local alternatives offer a more affordable choice. Take a look at the following examples to get a deeper look into it:
| Vegetables | Cost in India (per kg) | Cost in Kuwait (per kg) |
| Tomatoes | INR 43 | INR 128 |
| Potatoes | INR 31 | INR 99 |
| Onions | INR 34 | INR 76 |
| Apples | INR 180 | INR 184 |
| Bananas | INR 62 | INR 147 |
| Cappuccino (Regular) | INR 158 | INR 445 |
| Water (0.33 litre Bottle) | INR 34 | INR 15 |
Cost of Living in Kuwait: Transportation
Kuwait boasts a well-developed road network, ensuring efficient connectivity across the country. Major highways like the King Fahd Road and Gulf Road facilitate smooth transportation within Kuwait and to neighbouring Saudi Arabia.
Kuwait International Airport, located just 15.5 kilometres south of Kuwait City, is the primary gateway for international travel. It is well-connected with major destinations worldwide, including direct flights to India.
It is more advisable for you to book your flight tickets back home well in advance, particularly around holiday seasons like Eid and Christmas. So that you can secure cheaper deals and avoid last-minute price surges.
Now, moving swiftly on – keeping yourself healthy and insured in Kuwait is next on this guide.
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Cost of Living in Kuwait: Health and Insurance
Kuwait offers both public and private healthcare facilities. Private healthcare is preferable due to its superior quality and shorter wait times.
The difference between Public and Private Healthcare Insurance is as follows:
| Public | Private |
| You are actively discouraged from using the public system. | Available to you. |
| You will face extended wait times, usage restrictions, and unavailable services | Range of services and good standards of care. |
If you are studying in Kuwait, several popular student health insurance plans offer you comprehensive coverage tailored to meet your needs. Here are some of the top options:
1. International Student Insurance (ISI) Protect Plan:
- This Plan is designed for you if you are a full-time international student and includes coverage for doctor visits, hospitalisation, medical evacuation, and telehealth services.
- It offers four levels of coverage: Economy, Economy Plus, Business, and First Class, with policy maximums ranging from INR 1.7Cr to INR 41Cr.
- Monthly premiums start as low as INR 2.3K, depending on the chosen plan level.
2. IMG (International Medical Group) Plans:
- IMG offers several plans, such as Student Health Advantage and Patriot Exchange, which cover various medical needs, including emergency medical evacuation, inpatient and outpatient treatments, and mental health services. Plans are customisable with different levels of deductibles and out-of-pocket maximums.
3. Allianz Care:
- Allianz Care offers global health insurance plans with comprehensive benefits, including inpatient and outpatient treatment, dental and repatriation options, and access to their Expat Assistance Programme for 24/7 multilingual support.
- These plans are highly flexible, allowing you to tailor your coverage based on specific needs and budget.
The above insurance plans ensure that you can access necessary medical services, helping you to focus on your studies without worrying about healthcare costs. To compare detailed plans and choose the best option that suits your needs, visit the official websites of these insurance companies.
Got your health covered? Great. Come along to invest in your brainpower — the cost of education.
Cost of Living in Kuwait: Entertainment and Lifestyle Expenses
If you are an Indian student in Kuwait, looking for budget-friendly dining options, there are several places where you can enjoy delicious meals without breaking the bank. One notable spot is the Mughal Mahal in Salmiya, which offers a la carte and buffet options at reasonable prices, especially for its biryani and butter chicken. Another great choice is Souk Al-Mubarakiya in Kuwait City, where you can find affordable dining options and experience traditional Middle Eastern and Indian cuisines.
Additionally, Thakkara, which specialises in Malabari cuisine from the Indian region of Malabar, provides a unique culinary experience with authentic dishes and ingredients imported directly from Kerala. This restaurant offers good value for money and maintains the originality of its dishes.
These places cater to you if you are on a budget and provide a good mix of authentic Indian and local flavours, making them ideal for you to be mindful of your spending. Here’s what you will approximately spend at restaurants in Kuwait.
| Restaurants | Approximate Amount |
| Meal – Inexpensive Restaurant | INR 500 |
| Meal for 2 People – Mid-range Restaurant, Three-course | INR 5K |
After exploring the dining-out options available in Kuwait, plunge into the costs associated with sports and leisure activities. Here’s what you will spend approximately on it in Kuwait.
| Sports and Leisure | Approximate Amount |
| Fitness Club – Monthly Fee for 1 Adult | INR 9K |
| Tennis Court Rent (1 Hour on Weekend) | INR 4K |
Looking good and staying connected is part of the expat package. Upcoming is about fashion and gadgets.
Tips for Students to Reduce the Cost of Living in Kuwait
To reduce the cost of living in Kuwait, consider buying local produce and cooking at home. Meal planning and bulk buying significantly reduce monthly food expenses for you.
- Buy Local Produce: Opting for local fruits and vegetables in Kuwait and India can significantly reduce your grocery bills. Local produce is fresher and cheaper due to lower transportation costs.
- Shop in Bulk: Purchasing staple items like rice, lentils, and grains in bulk can lead to substantial savings. Bulk buying often comes with discounts and reduces the frequency of shopping trips.
- Seasonal Shopping: Focus on buying seasonal fruits and vegetables. These eatables are not only cheaper but also fresher and more nutritious.
- Discount Stores and Markets: Explore local markets and discount stores. In Kuwait, traditional markets (souks) often offer better prices for fresh produce than supermarkets. Similar to what the regional markets (mandis) in India do.
- Plan Meals and Budget: Planning meals and sticking to a shopping list can help avoid impulse purchases. Setting a weekly or monthly grocery budget also helps manage expenses efficiently.
- Utilise Student Discounts: Some stores offer you discounts. Always ask if there are any student discounts available.
By following these practical tips, you can manage your food expenses more effectively, ensuring a balanced diet without straining your budget.
With a full belly, now see how you will get around this vibrant country.
Top Universities and Tuition Fees
When considering higher education in Kuwait, you can look forward to top universities like Kuwait University and the American University of Kuwait. These universities are known for offering diverse academic programs and excellent facilities. Tuition fees can vary, but scholarships such as the Kuwait Government Scholarships provide substantial financial support, covering tuition, living expenses, and travel costs.
If you graduate from these institutions, you can secure high-paying jobs in sectors like oil and gas, finance, and technology, with companies such as Kuwait Petroleum Corporation and National Bank of Kuwait. These companies offer competitive salaries and robust career opportunities. Upcoming is a detailed write-up in the context.
Here is an overview of QS ranking 2024 and Tuition Fees of the universities above.
| University | QS Ranking 2024 | Tuition Fees |
| American University of the Middle East | #671-680 | INR 13L |
| Gulf University for Science and Technology | #851-900 | INR 18L |
| Kuwait University | #851-900 | INR 83K |
Scholarships for Indian Students in Kuwait
You can take advantage of several scholarship opportunities in Kuwait:
- Kuwait Government Scholarships: These fully funded scholarships are available for Bachelor, Master, and PhD programs at various Kuwaiti universities, covering tuition fees, living expenses, travel costs, and other related expenses.
- Arab Fund for Economic and Social Development (AFESD) Scholarships: This program offers funding for advanced research or teaching for Ph.D. holders. It includes travel, tuition, living expenses, and health insurance coverage.
- Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Scholarships: If you are from one of the IsDB member countries, including India, these scholarships cover full tuition, living expenses, travel, and other related expenses.
Employment Opportunities and Top Companies
Elite companies that frequently hire graduates from Kuwaiti universities include
- Kuwait Petroleum Corporation (KPC)
- Kuwait National Petroleum Company (KNPC)
- Zain Group
- The National Bank of Kuwait (NBK).
These companies are known for offering competitive salaries and excellent career growth opportunities.
High-Salary Courses
Courses in Engineering, Business Administration, Computer Science, and Medicine will likely lead you to high-salary jobs in Kuwait. These fields are in high demand and you can secure lucrative positions in top companies.
Employment Rate in Kuwait
Kuwait has a relatively high employment rate, especially if you are a skilled professional in the oil and gas, finance, and technology sectors. The demand for skilled workers ensures that you have good employment prospects post-graduation. The country’s strategic location and economic stability further enhance job opportunities.
Summing Up
The cost of living and rent in Kuwait may be significantly higher than in India, averaging 100.9% and 308.6%, respectively. However, the substantially higher average monthly salaries (INR 2L) offered in the region than in India (INR 56K) offset this. This presents a promising opportunity to earn and save more if you are an Indian studying abroad.
With an estimated monthly cost of around INR 66K, excluding rent, you can strategically manage your finances to enjoy a vibrant lifestyle and cultural experience in Kuwait. It is a worthwhile investment in your educational and personal growth journey.
Are you feeling equipped with knowledge but still having queries? Now, it is time to tackle some frequently asked questions.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Q. What are the average monthly living expenses for a single person in Kuwait?
Ans. The average monthly living expenses for a single person in Kuwait may differ based on various factors such as lifestyle, location, and personal choices. But generally, they range between INR 1.8L to INR 2.1L, covering housing, food, transportation, and leisure activities. According to Numbeo, the cost of living in Kuwait is moderate compared to other Gulf countries, making it a relatively affordable option for you.
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Q. How can Indian students in Kuwait explore and engage with Kuwait’s rich cultural and historical heritage?
Ans. Indian students in Kuwait can immerse themselves in the country’s rich cultural and historical heritage by visiting iconic landmarks like the Kuwait National Museum and the Grand Mosque. Engaging with the vibrant arts scene, including attending cultural performances and exhibitions, offers a deeper understanding of Kuwait’s unique cultural tapestry.
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Q. Are there part-time job opportunities for Indian students in Kuwait?
Ans. You can work part-time with a work permit issued by the Public Authority for Manpower (PAM) that the employer initiates. Part-time jobs are generally available in retail, hospitality, and administration, with specific sectors like healthcare requiring additional approvals. It is crucial to verify the latest regulations and seek advice from the university or local authorities before considering any job offers.
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Q. Is Kuwait safe to work for Indians?
Ans. If you are an Indian worker in Kuwait, you are well-regarded for your work ethics and sincerity. However, you may need help with withheld salaries, long working hours, and passport retention. Therefore, you should be aware of local laws and cultural norms to ensure your safety and compliance with regulations.
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Q. Is it easy to get a job in Kuwait?
Ans. Securing a job in Kuwait can be challenging due to strict labour laws and a preference for hiring local talent. However, there are good opportunities for skilled professionals, particularly in sectors like oil, healthcare, and education. Networking can significantly improve your chances of finding employment in Kuwait.
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Q. Is Kuwait a good place to settle?
Ans. Kuwait offers a high standard of living, modern infrastructure, and numerous job opportunities, making it an attractive destination for you. Its tax-free income and well-developed healthcare and education systems add to its appeal. However, the cost of living can be high, and cultural differences may require some adjustment.
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Q. Is it expensive to live in Kuwait?
Ans. Living in Kuwait can be relatively expensive in comparison to other countries, especially in terms of housing and imported goods. However, many everyday essentials, such as local food and public transportation, remain affordable. Budgeting wisely and taking advantage of student discounts can help you manage living costs effectively.
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Q. What are the typical rental prices for accommodation in Kuwait?
Ans. Rental prices in Kuwait vary based on location and type of accommodation. On average, a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre can cost around INR 68K to INR 1L per month, while similar apartments outside the city centre typically range from INR 54K to INR 81K. Larger apartments or villas can be significantly more expensive, reflecting the higher end of the market.
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Q. What is an excellent salary to cover living costs in Kuwait for Indians?
Ans. An excellent salary to cover living costs in Kuwait for Indians typically ranges between INR 2.2L to INR 3.3L per month. This amount can comfortably cover housing, food, transportation, and leisure activities. According to Expatistan, the cost of living in Kuwait is moderate compared to other Gulf countries, making it manageable for you with a well-paying job.
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Q. How does the cost of living in Kuwait compare to that of Dubai?
Ans. Kuwait is generally more affordable than Dubai. Housing and utilities in Kuwait are cheaper than in Dubai, though food and groceries might be slightly more expensive. Transportation costs are also lower in Kuwait due to subsidised fuel prices. However, Dubai’s broader range of entertainment and leisure options may lead to higher overall expenses.
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Q. How much does it generally cost for a couple to live in Kuwait per month, including rent?
Ans. The average monthly cost for a couple living in Kuwait, including rent, typically ranges between INR 2.2L to INR 3.3L. This estimate covers housing, utilities, groceries, transportation, and leisure activities. According to Expatistan, rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre can range from INR 68K to INR 1.2L, significantly impacting the overall cost of living.
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Q. What is the process for obtaining a student visa for Kuwait?
Ans. To obtain a student visa for Kuwait, you need to secure an admission offer from a recognized educational institution in the country. Following this, you must submit your application to the Kuwaiti embassy in India along with required documents such as your passport, admission letter, medical reports, and proof of financial stability. The process also includes undergoing a security clearance and medical examination.
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