Communication and Social Apps

WhatsApp: Widely used for instant messaging, WhatsApp is indispensable for staying connected with family and friends both locally and internationally. It allows for text messaging, voice calls, and video calls. It’s particularly useful for expats to join community groups to stay informed about local events and important updates.

Skype: For expats who need to make international calls, Skype provides an affordable solution. Besides personal calls, it’s also widely used for professional communications and interviews.

Meetup: Adjusting to a new country can be challenging, but Meetup helps expats find and join groups with similar interests, be it sports, books, technology, or anything else. It’s a great way to meet new people and build a support network in Kuwait.

Transportation Apps

Careem: A popular ride-hailing service in the Middle East, Careem offers reliable and safe transportation options across Kuwait. It’s an easy-to-use app where you can book a ride immediately or schedule one for later.

Google Maps: While Kuwait isn’t particularly large, navigating its roads can still be daunting for new arrivals. Google Maps is essential for real-time GPS navigation, traffic updates, and discovering local businesses like restaurants and shops.

RTA Kuwait: This is the official app of the Public Transport Company in Kuwait. It provides comprehensive information about bus routes and schedules, which can be incredibly helpful if you prefer using public transport.

Food Delivery and Dining Apps

Talabat: Talabat is one of the leading food delivery services in Kuwait. It offers a wide variety of cuisines and restaurants. You can order food and groceries and track your delivery in real-time.

Carriage: Another popular food delivery app, Carriage offers a unique feature of no minimum order. It also provides delivery services for pharmacies and flower shops, adding to its versatility.

Zomato: Renowned for restaurant reviews and ratings, Zomato is useful for discovering new dining spots and cafes around Kuwait. It also offers the convenience of online table booking and food delivery.

Health and Fitness Apps

MyFitnessPal: Keeping track of what you eat while adapting to new cuisines can be tricky. MyFitnessPal helps you log your daily food intake and monitor your nutritional goals, which can be particularly useful in maintaining a healthy lifestyle abroad.

Sehhaty: This health app provides medical services online, including booking doctor appointments, medical test results, and a vaccination management system. It’s particularly useful during the ongoing global health concerns.

FitnessPal: For those who prefer structured workout regimes, FitnessPal offers various exercises and routines that you can follow from the comfort of your home or at the gym.

Shopping and Lifestyle Apps

Xcite: Xcite is a leading electronics retailer in Kuwait where you can browse and purchase a wide array of gadgets and appliances. The app allows for seamless online shopping and provides notifications on special deals and offers.

Sheeel: This daily deal app provides incredible offers on items ranging from electronics to household goods. It’s perfect for expats looking to furnish their new homes without breaking the bank.

4Sale: As the name suggests, 4Sale allows users to buy and sell items ranging from cars to furniture. It’s particularly useful for expats looking to find deals or sell items they no longer need.

Financial Management Apps

NBK Mobile Banking: The National Bank of Kuwait offers a robust mobile banking app that allows expats to manage their finances conveniently. Features include money transfer, bill payments, and tracking your spending.

KNET: Almost all local transactions in Kuwait are processed through KNET. This app facilitates secure payment transfers and is essential for seamless financial transactions in the country.

XE Currency Converter: Managing and understanding the local currency (Kuwaiti Dinar – KWD) can be challenging initially. XE Currency Converter helps expats keep track of exchange rates and converts prices to their home currency, simplifying financial planning.

Conclusion

Adapting to life in Kuwait as an expat involves navigating through various aspects of daily living, from transportation to dining, and from socializing to managing finances. The apps listed above are designed to ease the transition, offering practical solutions that enhance the living experience in Kuwait. By leveraging these digital tools, expats can ensure a more integrated and enjoyable stay in this dynamic country.