Kuwait

Britain oversaw foreign relations and defense for the ruling Kuwaiti AL-SABAH dynasty from 1899 until independence in 1961. Kuwait was attacked and overrun by Iraq on 2 August 1990. Following several weeks of aerial bombardment, a US-led, UN coalition began a ground assault on 23 February 1991 that liberated Kuwait in four days. Kuwait spent more than $5 billion to repair oil infrastructure damaged during 1990-91. The AL-SABAH family has ruled since returning to power in 1991, and reestablished an elected legislature that in recent years has become increasingly assertive.

Languages & Population

Approximate Population: 2,505,559

Nationality (Noun): Kuwaiti(s)

Nationality (Adjective): Kuwaiti

Official Language(s): Arabic

Major Languages Spoken: Arabic, English

Country Facts

Country Name (long form): State of Kuwait

Country Name (short form): Kuwait

Country Name (local long form): Dawlat al Kuwayt

Country Name (local short form): Al Kuwayt

Name of Capital: Kuwait

UTC Time Difference (from capital): UTC+3 (8 hours ahead of Washington, DC during Standard Time)

Countries Near by, and Bordering Kuwait: Iraq, Saudi Arabia

Land Area: 17820 sq km

Comparative Area: slightly smaller than New Jersey

Total Land Boundry: 462 km

Coastline: 499 km

National Holiday: National Day, 25 February (1950)

International Phone Code: 965

Currency Code: Kuwaiti dinar (KD)

Internet Country Code: .kw

US Embassy Location: Bayan 36302, Area 14, Al-Masjed Al-Aqsa Street (near the Bayan palace), Kuwait City

US Embassy Mailing Address: P. O. Box 77 Safat 13001 Kuwait; or PSC 1280 APO AE 09880-9000