Souq Al-Mubarakiya
A beautifully renovated traditional market in Kuwait City, offering a glimpse into the past with its charming architecture and vibrant atmosphere.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Magical atmosphere
Souq Al-Mubarakiya
Best Time
Magical atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A beautifully renovated traditional market in Kuwait City, offering a glimpse into the past with its charming architecture and vibrant atmosphere.
"The traditional architecture and atmosphere take you back to another era. Worth a browse for sure."
📸 Capture the Vibe
The traditional architecture is stunning, but be mindful of others when taking photos. Managed to get a few shots!
💰 Price Check
Bargaining might not be as common here; prices can be on the higher side.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Traditional Architecture
Throughout the Souq
Wander through alleys with adobe-like houses, retro doors, and warm lantern lighting that transports you to another era.
Local Eateries
Various restaurants
Savor authentic Middle Eastern dishes, including Machboos and grilled meats, in a charming, historic setting.
Perfume Shops
Designated perfume section
Explore a wide array of perfumes, a popular item sold in many of the souq's shops.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Old Kuwait
Navigating the Souq
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Things to try in Souq Mubarakiya
📸 Capture the Vibe
The traditional architecture is stunning, but be mindful of others when taking photos. Managed to get a few shots!
💰 Price Check
Bargaining might not be as common here; prices can be on the higher side.
Restaurant in Souk Al Mubarakiya
Emirati visiting Kuwait, any advice?
🍽️ Local Flavors
Seek out local favorites like Machboos and grilled items for an authentic taste.
🚶♀️ Get Lost
Embrace the experience by exploring the various alleys and discovering hidden gems.
Tips and tricks for visiting Kuwait City
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Vibe
The traditional architecture is stunning, but be mindful of others when taking photos. Managed to get a few shots!
💰 Price Check
Bargaining might not be as common here; prices can be on the higher side.
🍽️ Local Flavors
Seek out local favorites like Machboos and grilled items for an authentic taste.
🚶♀️ Get Lost
Embrace the experience by exploring the various alleys and discovering hidden gems.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Souq Al-Mubarakiya for its beautifully renovated traditional architecture, which offers a captivating journey back in time with its charming alleys and warm lighting. The atmosphere is a significant draw, making it a worthwhile place to explore. However, some find the variety of goods limited, with many vendors selling similar items, and note that prices can be on the higher side, with less opportunity for bargaining.
"If you want to visit the old market and bazar of kuwait 🇰🇼 that is revamped and renovated with modern looks, then you must visit Al Mubarakiya. Everything there is well managed and cleaned. Old houses and structures, that was once the homes of people, now turned into shops. The market structure and shops make me feel like the old architectural design from a story from Alladin. Street with warm lighting ambience in style of old lantern, structure, small ventilation windows, old retro door of houses with chain buckles, still used to lock doors of shop, Adobe looks of houses now transformed into shops, made you time travel into time.
All the shops are well organised and you can find a lot of clothing, restaurants, tea shops, sweet shops, perfume shop there.
I simply love visiting this area. As many people were there, I was not comfortable taking pictures of the vicinity but somehow managed to get a few shots. Barbecue of the one of the restaurant 😋 is delicious with a good serving size but expensive."
Abbas Hussain
"Very strange market. One benefit and a drawback is that most of the traders are arranged in sections. All exchange offices are on one street, so you can compare the rates quickly. But on the other hand, it is difficult to find an exchange elsewhere. Goods are all the same in many shops: perfumes, rolls of fabrics. Barely anything for the tourists. Heritage street with mostly closed shops. All the sellers are sitting in the shops talking to somebody on the phones. Nobody's interested in the customers. Most of the shops are very small. How did you survive the covid?"
Alik Must
"Such a beautiful atmosphere and setting early evening. Big and nice to browse. Having said this, most vendors sold the same items. There wasn't much variety and it wasn't cheap. This isn't the place to bargain. Most were selling perfumes. I came out smelling very nice! I would however definitely recommend going as the traditional architecture and atmosphere takes you back to another era. Worth a browse for sure. Get lost in the various alleys and explore!"
Taylor Deni
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Souq Al-Mubarakiya is centrally located in Kuwait City. Taxis are readily available and a convenient option. If you're driving, there is parking available, though it can get busy. Public transport options might be available, but checking local routes is recommended.
While specific bus routes can change, it's advisable to check with local transport authorities or use a ride-sharing app for the most up-to-date information on public transport access to the souq.
From Kuwait International Airport (KWI), the most straightforward way to reach Souq Al-Mubarakiya is by taxi or a ride-sharing service, which typically takes around 20-30 minutes depending on traffic.
Souq Al-Mubarakiya is located in the heart of Kuwait City, close to many government buildings and historical sites. It's a central hub, making it easy to combine with visits to other nearby attractions.
Parking is available, but it can become challenging during peak hours. Arriving earlier in the day or on a weekday can improve your chances of finding a convenient spot.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Souq Al-Mubarakiya is generally free. You only pay for any purchases you make from the shops or restaurants within the souq.
The souq typically opens in the morning and stays open until late evening. However, individual shop hours can vary, and some shops might close for a midday break. It's best to visit during the main operating hours for the best experience.
Souq Al-Mubarakiya is usually open daily. However, it's always a good idea to check for any public holiday closures or special event schedules that might affect its operating hours.
The heritage street section, like the rest of the souq, is free to enter. The charm lies in exploring the preserved architecture and atmosphere.
While there isn't a formal ticketing system, many local tour operators offer guided tours that include Souq Al-Mubarakiya. This can provide deeper insights into its history and cultural significance.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You'll find a variety of shops selling perfumes, fabrics, traditional clothing, sweets, and spices. There are also numerous restaurants and tea shops offering local delicacies.
While some shops offer souvenirs, many vendors sell similar items like perfumes and fabrics. It's more about the experience and atmosphere than finding unique tourist trinkets.
Early evenings offer a magical atmosphere with warm lighting. Weekdays tend to be less crowded than weekends, providing a more relaxed browsing experience.
Yes, Souq Al-Mubarakiya is home to many restaurants and cafes serving traditional Middle Eastern dishes, grilled meats, and local beverages.
The souq is well-organized with designated sections for different goods, making it relatively easy to navigate. However, getting lost in its alleys can also be part of the charm.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Look for traditional Kuwaiti dishes like Machboos (spiced rice with meat), various grilled meats, and local pastries. Don't miss trying the traditionally brewed coffee and tea.
While many dishes feature meat, you can often find vegetarian options like mezze platters, falafel, and vegetable-based stews or sides in the restaurants.
Food prices can vary. While some barbecue dishes might be considered expensive with good serving sizes, you can also find more affordable options like tea and snacks.
Absolutely! The souq is dotted with traditional tea shops and cafes offering freshly brewed coffee and tea, perfect for a break while exploring.
Yes, you'll likely find shops selling a variety of traditional Kuwaiti sweets and desserts, perfect for a sweet treat or to take home.
📸 📸 Photography
Focus on the traditional architecture: the adobe-like houses, retro doors, warm lantern lighting, and narrow alleys. The early evening light creates a magical ambiance.
It's best to be respectful and ask for permission before photographing individuals, especially shopkeepers. While some visitors managed to get shots, being mindful of privacy is key.
A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is useful for capturing both wider architectural shots and details. A prime lens with a wide aperture can be great for low-light conditions in the evening.
Generally, casual photography is allowed. However, avoid using professional equipment or drones without proper permits, and always be respectful of private property and individuals.
Early evening offers a beautiful warm light and a magical atmosphere. The golden hour before sunset can provide stunning shots of the architecture.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's advisable to visit earlier in the day or on a weekday to avoid larger crowds, which can make the experience more comfortable for families. Encourage children to explore the different alleys and observe the traditional shop setups. While souvenir shopping might not be the primary focus, the visual stimulation of the souq can be engaging for younger visitors.
💰 Budget Travelers
Prioritize visiting during weekdays when crowds are lower, potentially leading to a more relaxed and less pressured shopping environment. The main draw is the cultural immersion, which costs nothing. Consider it an experience rather than a shopping spree to manage expenses effectively.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Revitalized Heritage
Despite the modern facelift, the souq's layout still reflects its traditional organization. Shops are often grouped by trade, such as exchange offices lining one street, making it efficient for comparison shopping. However, this can also make it challenging to find specific items outside their designated zones. Many shops, while small, contribute to the authentic atmosphere, even if some sellers appear disengaged, focusing on their phones rather than actively soliciting customers.
The experience at Souq Al-Mubarakiya is less about aggressive bargaining and more about soaking in the ambiance. While variety might be limited in some sections, the traditional architecture and the overall atmosphere are the main attractions. It's a place to wander, explore the various alleys, and appreciate the blend of history and contemporary life.
Culinary Delights of the Souq
Beyond the main courses, the souq is also an ideal spot to experience local beverages. Enjoy traditionally brewed coffee and tea, which are staples in Kuwaiti culture. For those with a sweet tooth, you'll find shops offering a selection of traditional Kuwaiti sweets and desserts. While some dining experiences, like barbecue, can be on the pricier side, the quality and serving sizes often justify the cost.
For visitors seeking specific dietary options, while meat-centric dishes are prevalent, many establishments offer mezze platters, falafel, and other vegetable-based sides that cater to vegetarians. The vibrant food scene adds another layer to the immersive experience of Souq Al-Mubarakiya, making it a destination for both cultural exploration and gastronomic enjoyment.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit