Kuwait Towers are three slender towers on Arabian Gulf Street in Kuwait City, opened to the public in 1979. Blue-green mosaic spheres mark the tallest, which is 187 metres high. A viewing sphere at 120 metres looks over the city skyline and the Gulf, and part of it turns slowly, so you can see the full circle from one spot. The towers were built to store water and supply power, which is part of their story. Below, there are open waterfront paths, a café, a restaurant and a gift shop. Sunset and the evening lighting are the favoured times to go.
Why the towers were built
The Kuwait Towers began as a water project. The idea took shape in 1962, less than a year after Kuwait became independent. The Ministry of Electricity and Water commissioned a scheme of 34 water towers from the Swedish engineering and architecture firm VBB. The towers on Arabian Gulf Street are the sixth and last group in that system, and their design is quite different from the other five.
The towers were officially inaugurated on 1 March 1979. They are now a national symbol of independence and sovereignty and one of the best-known landmarks of modern Kuwait. The design drew on Islamic influences and modern architecture, and it received the Aga Khan Award for Architecture.
The three towers
Each tower has its own job. The Main Tower is 187 metres high and is the only one open to visitors. It holds the viewing sphere, a café and a restaurant. The middle tower is 147 metres high and is a water reservoir. The smallest is 113 metres high and holds the equipment that supplies electricity and lights the other two.
The surfaces are covered in thousands of enamelled steel discs in blue and green. They pick up the colour of the sea and sky, and the towers look different through the day. Seen from the shoreline, the three shapes rise from a spit of land that juts into the Gulf.
Going up the Main Tower
The viewing deck is at 120 metres. From it you look across the skyline of central Kuwait City and over the water of the Gulf. Telescopes are set up on the observation level for a closer look at city landmarks.
Part of the sphere rotates. One full turn takes about 30 minutes, so you can stay in one place and still see the whole panorama. The viewing level has washrooms and a snack bar, and a gift outlet on the ground floor sells souvenirs.
The restaurant sits lower, at 82 metres, and serves an international buffet. The standard ticket covers the viewing deck, and the entry fee is waived if you eat at the restaurant. Tickets are sold online only, so arrange yours before you arrive.
The viewing level has no information boards about the towers' history or purpose. The background above is worth reading before you go.
Around the towers
The grounds are open and kept clean. A waterfront promenade runs past the base, with space to walk by the sea. There is a small beach next to the towers, a playground and bicycle rental, and several food outlets.
Aqua Park, a water park on the same street beside the towers, is a draw for families in the warmer months. Parking is available on site, and the entrance, restrooms and parking area are wheelchair accessible. Baggage storage is also provided.
FAQ
How do you buy tickets for Kuwait Towers?
Buy them online before you go. There is no ticket counter at the site, so you need a connection to book on arrival.
How much is the entry fee?
The standard ticket includes the 360-degree viewing deck at 120 metres. Check the current price when you book. Entry is waived if you eat at the restaurant.
How long do you need at Kuwait Towers?
Allow one to two hours for the viewing level and a walk around the waterfront. Add time if you plan to eat at the restaurant or café.
What is the best time to visit?
Close to sunset. You see the city in daylight and then as the skyline lights up, and the towers are illuminated after dark.
Can you go up all three towers?
No. Only the Main Tower, the tallest at 187 metres, is open to the public. The other two hold water and electrical equipment.
Is Kuwait Towers accessible for wheelchair users?
The entrance, restrooms and parking area are wheelchair accessible, and there is accessible seating.
