Pray for Kuwait

Located at the northern tip of the Persian Gulf between Saudi Arabia and Iraq, Kuwait is blessed with some of the world’s largest oil reserves. With 90 percent of export profits coming from its rich supply of oil, Kuwait has one of the highest GDPs per capita in the region. Its boiling hot summers reach up to 50°C (122°F), with its flat desert plains providing very little relief. The Kuwaiti people are descendants of nomadic tribes who settled in the area in the 18th century, yet today they are a minority in their own nation. The majority of residents are immigrants from countries like India, Egypt, and Bangladesh.

Kuwait is governed as a constitutional emirate where an Emir shares power with an elected national assembly. However, the government has recently been shaken by political deadlock between elected lawmakers and the executive branch, repeatedly slowing policymaking. Tensions reached a peak in 2024, when the Emir dissolved parliament, suspended parts of the constitution, and announced upcoming political reforms. While political power remains tightly controlled at the top, many in Kuwait face deep legal inequality. The Bidoon people have lived in the country for generations but lack legal citizenship, severely limiting their access to employment, healthcare, and education. Migrant workers also face exploitation under the restrictive kafala sponsorship system. Despite reforms, many still endure excessive working hours and severe physical or sexual abuse, while being legally barred from leaving the country or changing employers without permission.

While Kuwait is an Islamic state and a Muslim-majority country, small minorities of Hindus and Christians have entered the nation, and Kuwait has one of the Gulf region’s oldest recognized Protestant communities. These Christians freely worship in multilingual churches, serving congregations through worship, discipleship, and humanitarian ministries. Although they do not generally face persecution, Kuwaiti citizens who convert from Islam may face family rejection, social pressure, and legal complications. Christians must be discreet when witnessing to their neighbors, since evangelizing to Muslims is restricted. Ministries are reaching out to Kuwaiti Muslims through organic friendships and media outreach online. God is stirring the hearts of these people — many Kuwaitis are curious about Christianity and are exploring it in secret.