By Yousef Almazeedi

Kuwait, it seems, is a land of contrasts. According to the “Global Safety Report”, published by the polling organization Gallup on Sept 24, Kuwait is practically a fortress of safety — 99 percent of its residents feel completely at ease walking alone at night. How good is that, you ask? It’s the top of the list. Kuwait is the safest country in the world.

You’d think that kind of security would go hand-in-hand with warm and fuzzy neighborly vibes, right? Well, not exactly. InterNations’ “Expat Insider 2024” survey paints a different picture, with Kuwait ranked as the least friendly country. For the seventh year in a row. It’s a bit like living in a high-tech, ultra-safe bubble, but one where the doors to social warmth are locked. This paradox invites a fresh take on what really makes a place livable. Sure, safety is wonderful. Who wouldn’t want to live in a country where you can stroll down the street without a worry in the world? But if those streets feel empty of smiles and human connection, is that safety enough?

Kuwait has nailed one half of the equation with flying colors — its law enforcement and public order are world-class. Yet, the human element — the friendly “good morning” from a random stranger, the shared coffee, the sense of being part of a welcoming community — is where it falls short. So, what’s the fix? Maybe Kuwait’s next great achievement could be unlocking the social warmth that so many seem to miss. After all, wouldn’t it be great to live in a place that’s not just safe but also inviting, where you feel both secure and at home? It’s not about trading one for the other — it’s about blending both worlds into something truly exceptional.