Kuwait’s traditional souks are interesting places to visit. In the heart of the city, starting from Safat Square and stretching down to the sea, is the Old Souk. Spices, clothing, antiques, weaving and carpets are attractively displayed. The gold souk is one you’ll never forget with row upon row of gold shops displaying bright, golden and traditional jewellery. Gold bars are also sold and it is possible to negotiate the price. Gold in Kuwait is 22 or 24 Karats and carries a certificate of authenticity.

The Friday market called Haraj is open from 8am to 8pm and is located behind the nurseries of the fourth Ring Road and the Al Rai area. You can buy just anything in this market – antiques and carpets, furniture and clothing to goats and sheep. Haggling can get you some very good deals here.

You can buy the latest Japanese, European and American gizmos at Kuwait. Chinese and Korean electronic goods that are easier on the pocket are also available. Big stores have discounted sales in May and November and it is worth waiting for if you are planning to make big purchases. Apart from traditional weaving, there is nothing else made locally.

Shops are open Saturday to Wednesday from 8 or 9 am till 1pm and again from 4pm to 6 pm or 7pm. Large Shopping Complexes stay open till 9pm. On Thursdays most business establishments open only in the morning. Friday is a weekly holiday and except for a few shops that open in the late afternoon and early evening, everything else is closed during the day.