Humans have been known to be settled in the area, that we now call Kuwait city, since the 3000 BC. It was time. Kuwait City history is mixed with successes and failures. The city has experienced its highs and lows, gone through most difficult times economically but has managed to stand firm today. It is one of the most developed cities in the world and its currency is the most valued.

Phase 1: The Fort City

The name of this city has been derived from the word “Kut”, which is an Arabic word that means fort. The Portuguese arrived in the area of the Kuwait city in the 16th century and built a fort. The fort was built as a base which was supposed to be used by these people to move towards the North. However, these people were not able to survive in this area for long. From this time onwards till the 18th century, it was being occupied by different communities for short time periods.

Phase 2: Nomadic People

In the early 18th century, a nomadic family, Al-Sabah, settled in the area of this city. After settling, Sabah I became the ruler of this area and he was succeeded by his heirs. The group of people began to grow and by the mid-18th century, the first wall had been built along with strong trade relations with Damascus and Baghdad. Also, at this time a fleet comprising of traditional Arab sailing dhows that numbered 800 was set up.

Phase 3: Collapse of the Pearl Industry

Pearl diving has been a traditional activity in the city and in the early times, it was the main hub of pearl diving. In the early 1900s, the Japanese begin pearl farming was destroyed the pearl diving industry of Kuwait. The economy of this city was shattered and completely destroyed. It was at this time that this city became the poorest city in the world and depended completely on Britain for survival.

Phase 4: Discovery of Oil and Golden Era

The city did not stay poor for long as in 1936, a better treasure was discovered. In this year, oil was discovered under the land of Kuwait which marked the start of a stable and strong economy for the city. This discovery brought in investors and laborers in huge numbers. The country began to flourish and out of all other Gulf States, Kuwait was the first to declare independence in the year 1961.

Phase 5: Modernized Kuwait City

The city has long flourished and has been designed with modern architecture. It is home to some of the most phenomenal structures in the world such as the Kuwait Towers and Liberation Tower. Skyscrapers, bridges, and smart infrastructure has been developed making Kuwait city one of the well-developed cities.

Kuwait City Culture:

Kuwait City Culture is similar to that of Bahrain in numerous aspects. Arts, music, poetry, and literature of this city are strong and flourish throughout the city. The culture of this city is significantly influenced by the culture and traditions of Kuwaitis centuries ago. To preserve this culture, around 50 museums have been constructed in the city.