The lifestyle of Kuwait's society
must be understood within a framework of Muslim religion,
Arabic tradition and local customs. The process of modernisation
has made inroads into certain aspects of housing, occupations,
dress and handicrafts but other aspects of the Kuwaiti lifestyle
have stood the test of time. The changes brought about by
the discovery of oil and the subsequent modernisation have
not in any way undermined Kuwaiti people's distinct identity.
The pivot around which everything revolves continues to be
the family. The typical, large Kuwaiti family sitting together
for a meal is the preferred way to dine. It is a time to relax
and enjoy the food with the family, but if a guest joins in,
he is warmly welcomed. Gatherings and lunches with the extended
family and friends are a regular affair. The men of the family
and neighbourhood socialise in the diwaniyas just as their
forefathers did.
Global influence is most apparent
in areas like Salmiya and Gulf Road where shopping complexes
and restaurants are crowded on weekend nights. Coffee is made
at home in traditional utensils, but today it may also be
enjoyed at Starbucks! For a Kuwaiti cup of coffee though,
people of all ages gather at the traditional coffee shops
known as 'maqahas'. Kuwaiti women enjoy shopping at the new
fancy malls as much as they do at the covered markets or 'souks'.
They wear western clothes or the 'dara'a', just as the men
choose between western wear and the 'dishdasha'. Shopping
for gold ornaments in the magnificently laid out markets is
another favourite pasttime of Kuwaiti women.
Nomadic life holds a special charm for the town dwellers and
they go camping to relax and enjoy the desert. The black tents
of their forefathers have been replaced by canvas ones. Electricity,
hot water and other comforts are provided inside the 'tent'. Mobile
phones hooked on to the batteries of their cars keep them in touch
with the city.
Another fascinating Bedouin tradition is falconry. Falcons are
intelligent and easy to train. An understanding develops between
the master and his falcon within a matter of two to three weeks.
Many Kuwaitis breed falcons and keep them for hunting or as a
mark of tradition.
The exemplary lifestyle of Kuwaiti society is a blend of the old
and the new, of modernity and tradition.
