Kuwait has cheap and well spread transport system with local and intercity buses that operate round the clock. Taxis charge a flat rate between the city and airport. Local taxis without meters are available for getting around. To hire a car, one must have an International Driving Permit.
Driving
Driving in Kuwait, cannot be taken lightly. Though, Kuwait has modern well-lit roads, excessive speeding on primary and secondary roads, coupled with careless enforcement of traffic regulations and high density of vehicles, could often lead to fatal accidents. Visitors can drive with international driving permits issued by their respective countries during the validity of their visa. Driving without car registration documents and a license is considered illegal. Use of seat-belt is mandatory. Driving is to the right side of the road. Speed limits are posted. Driving on a right turn on a red light is not permitted, unless there is a particular lane with a yield sign. A curb painted with black and yellow, indicates no parking. Driving under the influence of alcohol, is considered a serious offence. In Kuwait, when a driver makes use of her/his high beams, it is meant as a request to shift your car to a slower lane, to allow the driver with flashing beams to move ahead.
Kuwait has an extensive, modern and well-maintained network of highways. Roadways extended 5,749 km, of which 4,887 km is paved. In 2000, there were some 552,400 passenger cars, and 167,800 commercial taxis, trucks, and buses in use. Since there is no railway system in the country, most of the people travel by automobiles. The government plans to construct US$11 billion rail network which will include a city metro for its capital. Bus services are provided by City Bus and state-owned Kuwait Public Transportation Corporation.
