When we think of famous tourist destinations in the Middle East, we think of Qatar and UAE. But these are only two of the countries in the region which also includes other interesting places such as Kuwait. The fact Kuwait is not as popular as Qatar and UAE is also because Kuwaiti Government has not been as effective in promoting the country as have been its more popular neighbors. But it is never too late and with proper planning and efforts, Kuwait can join the list of most popular tourist spots in the Middle East. This is an important task because it will help improve the global perceptions of Middle East. The key to make Kuwait a good destination for tourists is to anticipate and meet the needs of tourists who may come from all over the world.
The first step to making Kuwait a popular tourist destination is to develop and implement an effective marketing campaign. This campaign should be headed by the Kuwait Government’s agency responsible for promoting tourism. The marketing campaign should use a variety of channels such as TV, social media, newspapers, and magazines.

These marketing messages should highlight the places in Kuwait that may appeal to people from all over the world. The marketing campaign may also highlight why Kuwait is a better alternative to its neighbors such as cheaper accommodation and more authentic local food as compared to its internationalized neighbors. Once the formal marketing campaign is successful, the country may get free publicity through visitors just as its neighbors Qatar and UAE get. These visitors may return home and spread the word around.

The second step is to create an environment that accommodates different cultures. Kuwait is a conservative society which means the conservative laws may discourage many foreigners from visiting. Kuwait should introduce laws that help foreigners feel more at home. One of the reasons Qatar and Dubai have become popular tourist destinations is also because they have introduced specific laws for tourists and expats which take into account international lifestyles and values and provide certain exemptions to foreigners from local rules and regulations.

While the government can play an important role in improving the tourist status of the country, Kuwait’s private sector will also have to be involved. They could play their part by developing destinations that meet or exceed international service standards. The hospitality sector should introduce new requirements for the professionals such as developing strong cross-cultural skills. The service staff could be encouraged to develop multiple language skills such as English, Spanish, and French because tourists now come from all over the world and not just rich countries in North America and Europe.

The last step should be to take measures to make it easy for tourists to visit the country. This may include revising visa policies so that tourists can get them more quickly and conveniently. Similarly, the government may work with local airlines as well as international airlines to increase the number of international flights to and from Kuwait. The Kuwaiti Government could also make it easier for travelers on connecting flights to obtain a day visa. Such travelers may not have much time to explore the country but their experiences may encourage them to plan a future trip.

Kuwait is not as popular as some of its more popular neighbors such as Qatar and UAE but it can change by taking measures that anticipate and meet the needs of would-be tourists. The first step is to aggressively promote the country and its tourism potential. The second step is to introduce more tourist-friendly laws as well as provide exemptions from more conservative local rules and regulations. The third step is to encourage local hospitality sector to meet or preferably exceed international service standards. The final step is to make it easier for tourists to visit the country such as friendlier visa policies and more flight options.