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Kuwait Background Information

Britain oversaw foreign relations and defense for the ruling Kuwaiti AL-SABAH dynasty from 1899 until independence in 1961. Kuwait was attacked and overrun by Iraq on 2 August 1990. Following several weeks of aerial bombardment, a US-led, UN coalition began a ground assault on 23 February 1991 that liberated Kuwait in four days. Kuwait spent more than $5 billion to repair oil infrastructure damaged during 1990-91. The AL-SABAH family has ruled since returning to power in 1991, and reestablished an elected legislature that in recent years has become increasingly assertive.

Kuwait Quickstats

  • Population: 2,505,559
  • Area: 17,820 sq km
  • Density: 131 /km² (68th)
  • GDP (total): $88,7 billion
  • GDP (per capita): $29,566
  • Literacy: 93.3%

Languages of Kuwait

Useful to know

  • Currency: Kuwaiti dinar (KWD)
  • Dial code: +965

International Trade

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