Though many of Kuwait's traditional souks (markets) still exist, the country has an abundance of modern supermarkets and shopping malls. Most areas in Kuwait have a large supermarket operated by cooperative societies. These cooperatives (Jameeyah) usually open early, work till quite late at night and stock a vast range of food and other household items. Some of the basic food items are subsidised. The prices of some other items are controlled.

There are also many private supermarkets. Of these, some are open 24 hours a day. The larger ones stock a range of goods such as toys, furniture, car accessories, clothes and accessories and perfumes.

Stocked with goods from all parts of the world, their prices are somewhat higher than the cooperatives, though prices of some basic foodstuffs are subject to control. Fresh food may be bought a bit cheaper in the markets. Most of Kuwait's shopping malls have been rebuilt since the looting and destruction in the 1990 Iraqi invasion. They range from the most exclusive (in price) to the ordinary. Many contain small shops which specialise in certain items, such as coffee and exclusive brand names.

Gold Souks

The Gold souks, for which Kuwait is famous, were prime targets for the Iraqi troops during the first days of the invasion in August 1990. Most of these souks are now back in business, with the exception of the old gold souk in Kuwait City centre, which has been shifted to a specially-built building. There are gold souks and gold shops, which both buy and sell gold, in most of the shopping areas in Kuwait. Jewellery styles are mainly Arabic, Indian (which is very popular in Kuwait) and Italian.

Gold is considered of immense value by many in Kuwait, whether Kuwaitis, Arab expatriates or those from the Far East, and not just an ornament. Most gold jewellery sold is 21 or 22 carat, or sometimes 18 carat too. All gold sold must be hallmarked and the gold shops are inspected by the Government for quality. An official receipt, clearly showing the purity and weight of the gold, should always be demanded. Any doubts about the gold content and weight can be then resolved at the government assay office.

Gold jewellery is priced per gram. Jewellery is always weighed and the price of the piece calculated from the weight. The price quoted includes a charge for workmanship, and the buyer is advised to ask the price of the gold content, which tracks world market prices and fluctuates daily. The price for the workmanship stays fairly constant but varies according to how intricate the design is.

Pure gold can also be bought in bar form, in 10 gm, 100 gm and in kg bars, hallmarked accordingly. In some countries these are classified as bullion and expatriates intending to take gold home should check the legal position with their embassies.

Traditional Open Air and Friday Markets

Despite the influx of modern supermarkets and shopping malls, some of the traditional markets are still flourishing. The souk area in central Kuwait City retains some of its labyrinths of covered streets and passageways lined with stalls and shops.