Robert, S53R will be active as 9K2HN from Kuwait in CQ WW WPX CW Contest, 24 - 25 May 2025.
He will operate in SOAB HP Classic Category.
Recent DX Spots 9K2HN
9K2HN Log search QSL via 9K2HN, ClubLog OQRS.
Ads for direct QSL:
HAMAD ALNUSIF, P.O.BOX: 38305, ABDULLAH AL-SALEM AREA 72254, Kuwait.
Kuwait – distant and mysterious
Among the many well-known countries in the world, there are some that attract attention due to their unusual (from a European perspective) culture, location, way of life, and attractions. One such country is Kuwait.
Kuwait at first glance
Kuwait is located on the Arabian Peninsula and is washed by the waters of the Persian Gulf. It also owns several islands that are located in close proximity to the coastline. At first glance, it is a typical Arab country, just like many others in the Middle East. Such places were once referred to as hot spots due to political and military instability. Oil production is well developed here, and there are many interesting tourist attractions. The local population, Arabs, are devout Muslims with fairly strict customs. There are deserts everywhere, camels, and clothing specific to the region. However, despite its typical characteristics, Kuwait, like many other Arab countries, has some unique features, which we will discuss a little later.
The climate in the country is tropical. As is typical for tropical countries, the year is divided into two seasons: a (relatively) rainy season in the winter months and a dry season in the summer. In summer, the average air temperature reaches 36 degrees Celsius, and the record high temperature here is 50 degrees Celsius. The coldest month is January. However, by our standards, even this month is not too cold, with average daily temperatures of 13 degrees Celsius. Sometimes the air warms up to +18 degrees Celsius. Droughts occur periodically in Kuwait, approximately every five years.
It is best for tourists to visit Kuwait during the off-season—in autumn and spring, the climatic conditions are most familiar to Europeans, so there are usually no problems with acclimatization. The proximity of time zones also adds to the popularity of this tourist destination—Kuwait is UTC+3.
The population density in the country is quite high, with an average of 130 people per square kilometer, but this figure is much higher in cities. According to 2012 data, just over two and a half million people live permanently in an area of 18,000 square kilometers.
Kuwait. 9K2HN Antennas.
Kuwait: nature and tourist attractions
Most of the country is covered by rocky and sandy deserts. However, the country's deserts cannot be called completely lifeless. Of course, the deserts are mainly covered with grasses and low-growing shrubs typical of the area, such as camel thorn, sedge, and kerme. But during the winter rains, brightly flowering plants appear, temporarily transforming the desert into a colorful carpet that gradually fades under the scorching sun. And, as if to create an incredible contrast, there are flowering oases with date palms and crops grown by the local population, mainly millet and corn.
In contrast to the desert's rather sparse flora, the animal world of Kuwait is much more diverse. There are 50 species of mammals, including some rare ones, 38 species of snakes, lizards, and other reptiles, and 280 species of birds (mostly migratory), meaning that the country's fauna is diverse and rich. The coastal waters are rich in fish, and fishing is a major industry for the local population. Tourists enjoy watching the sea turtles play, if they are lucky enough to spot them.
The country has many attractions, with the capital, El-Kuwait, deserving special attention. It would probably take more than a month to see all the sights here. Numerous museums, mosques, the Old Seif Palace, and the famous Kuwait Towers are sure to impress everyone.
The island of Failaka is of considerable tourist interest. It is only 20 kilometers from the capital, so the journey does not take long. The island is interesting because, according to archaeological research, people lived here as far back as the Stone Age. Today, the island is a real archaeological reserve with ancient temples and structures.
In general, Kuwait is a unique place in terms of history and archaeology. Ancient trade routes passed through the territory, and ancient Greek, Persian, Sumerian, and Babylonian cities were found here, which only adds to the country's appeal.
Kuwait. Author - SdcRX4.
Kuwait – a difficult path to modernity
When talking about the history of Kuwait, one should not forget the difficult and arduous path to independence, wars and invasions. The country's geographical location is very advantageous, which is why it has always been a tempting target for neighbouring and even distant countries. After a coup d'état organized by Britain in 1896 and the assassination of Sheikh Mohammed, a British military base was established in the country, which greatly displeased the Turks, who claimed influence in Kuwait and had already attempted a military invasion.
British protectorate over Kuwait lasted until June 1961, when the country gained true independence. However, relations with Iraq and Saudi Arabia did not improve. The confrontation led to the occupation of Kuwait by Iraq and its annexation. This caused oil supply disruptions, which did not please the United States, which formed an international coalition and liberated Kuwait during the 1991 Gulf War. The once prosperous country was completely destroyed by retreating Iraqi troops, who destroyed oil rigs as they withdrew. But in just a few years, the economy was completely restored.
Interesting facts
Kuwait is considered, and quite deservedly so, one of the most urbanized countries in the world. Almost 98% of the population lives in cities. At the same time, El-Kuwait is the only large city in the country. This country is very rich. The indigenous people (who make up just under half of the population) are entitled to free education and healthcare, receive substantial monthly child benefits, and the state gives newlyweds a generous sum of money as a wedding gift.
Sport is well developed in the country, especially for tourists, but locals also strive to lead a healthy lifestyle. Falconry and camel racing are very interesting competitions. More than twenty marine clubs, diving communities, windsurfers, yachtsmen, swimming enthusiasts, and water skiers are popular among locals and tourists.
Another important feature of the country that attracts many tourists is virtually unlimited shopping. You can buy anything in Kuwait at very affordable prices. But to do so, you need to know how to haggle at the market. Here, as in other Eastern countries, this is normal.
