Middle East and North Africa
Kuwait
Last reviewed: 11 November 2008
Country information
Area: 17,818 sq km
Population: 2.6 million (est)
Capital City: Kuwait City
People: Kuwaitis (approx 50% of population), Egyptians, Syrians, Iranians, Palestinians, Asians (Indians, Sri Lankans, Bangladeshis, Pakistanis, Filipinos, Afghani, Chinese), Americans and Europeans
Language(s): Arabic; English (the official second language)
Religion(s): The overwhelming majority of Kuwaitis are Muslim - it is an Islamic society. There are Christian churches in Kuwait. The practice of other religions is restricted.
Currency: Kuwaiti Dinar (KD. 1KD = approx £2.30)
Major political parties: None. Parties are illegal.
Government: Constitutional Monarchy
Head of State: His Highness the Amir, Sheikh Sabah Al Ahmad Al Jaber Al Sabah
Heir Apparent: His Highness the Crown Prince, Sheikh Nawwaf Al-Ahmed Al-Jaber Al-Sabah
Prime Minister: Sheikh Nasser Mohammed Al-Ahmed Al-Jaber Al-Sabah
Foreign Minister: His Excellency Sheikh Dr Mohammed Sabah Al Salim Al Sabah
Membership of international organisations: Most international organisations, including the Gulf Co-operation Council (GCC); Organisation of the Islamic Council (OIC); Arab League; United Nations; OPEC; WTO.
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