ACKStaffWelcomeInfo2 005

Welcome to the Australian College of Kuwait: 

Welcome to the Australian College of Kuwait

Contents: 

Contents Map of Kuwait Weather Taxi and Transport Buying or Leasing a Car Roads and Highways Internet Connections Shopping Call to Prayer Some good links

Map of Kuwait: 

Map of Kuwait

Weather: 

Weather Summer temperatures may reach 55oC. Consequently, the sea in the Gulf is high in salinity with water temperatures ranging from 12 to 36 degrees C. The heat is very dry, except for October where there is usually a few weeks of humidity. Air-conditioners are fitted in all apartments, schools, offices and shopping-malls! The rest of the year is very pleasant, and in fact becomes quite cold from late November to January.

Taxi and Transport: 

Taxi and Transport Taxis are plentiful and reasonably priced in Kuwait. A trip to the local supermarket will cost 1KD each way. If you make a quick stop on the way, you will usually be charged 1 KD extra. If you stop to shop, expect to pay more. Public transport (bus) is available, however these tend not to be used by expats.

Buying or Leasing a Car: 

Buying or Leasing a Car If you have an international drivers license, you can lease a car short-term on arrival in Kuwait. Once you obtain your Civil ID you can buy or long-term lease a vehicle. Fuel is very cheap – currently about 20 Australian cents per litre. Quality second-hand cars are cheap compared to Australia. Leasing is popular because it includes maintenance, insurance and roadside assistance. A Brand new Nissan Altima (family car) can be leased for about KD115 per month for one year. A new Toyota Echo (small 4 door car) is KD79 per month. Leases can be obtained for more than one year, if preferred.

Roads and Highways: 

Roads and Highways The road system in Kuwait is highly advanced. The main highways throughout Kuwait are very good. Smaller streets tend to have speed bumps at regular intervals which can be a challenge for the sports-car style of vehicle. All vehicles are Left Hand Drive, and travel on the right hand side of the road.

Internet Connections: 

Internet access is available to staff at the ACK. Out-of-hours Internet Cafes are available in some locations. You can also purchase an Internet Access card to use with your PC or laptop at home. These are available for various amounts; the card gives you an ID and password (instructions are on the back) and lasts for a month or longer. This is regardless of the number of connections or downloads you make. Internet Connections

Banking: 

Visa, Visa Electron, MasterCard, GCCNet, Cirrus, Knet, and other cash cards which have international access can be used at ATMs. Bank telegraphic transfers back to Australia usually take about 48 hours. It’s important to check on the hours of opening with your local bank as they can vary. Also note that the Kuwait weekend is on Thursday and Friday. Banking

Shopping: 

Shopping Western-style Shopping Centres are common throughout Kuwait City. Large supermarkets are open 24hrs, and retail shopping malls are open from about 10am-9pm. International foods and western branded clothing and household items are readily available. Markets and small shops are plentiful.

Call to Prayer: 

Call to Prayer Those who haven’t experienced Islamic culture, should be aware of some of the religious customs that take place every day. Throughout the day you will hear the ‘call to prayer’ from the loudspeakers on the minarets at the mosques. People also take time for prayer throughout the day.

A helpful Link for People coming to Kuwait: 

A helpful Link for People coming to Kuwait http://www.kuwaitpocketguide.com If we can help with further information please email hr@ackonline.com, Or Phone:+965 5376 111 Fax:+965 5376 222 Or visit the website www.ackonline.com