Each Friday, the bustling area of “Maliya” in downtown Kuwait City transforms into a vibrant tapestry of cultural connection, drawing hundreds of expatriates — primarily from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal and Sri Lanka — for a day of community, leisure and nostalgia. Located near the iconic Al Muthanna Complex and the central bus station, Maliya is easily accessible by public transport, making it a popular gathering spot.

From early morning until sunset, the area pulses with activity as families and friends converge after Friday prayers to socialize, relax and reconnect with familiar traditions. Scenes of children playing cricket, elders chatting over cups of tea and coffee and vendors offering beloved South Asian street snacks like samosas, pakoras and chaat are common.

“We come here to relax on Fridays. We meet friends and enjoy a little taste of home. Hearing our native languages all around us — it feels like being back in India,” said Rai Kumar, an Indian expatriate.

Similar in spirit to Salmiya’s “Little Manila”, Maliya has become a cherished weekend destination for South Asian expatriates. The shared cultural background and synchronized weekend schedules foster a strong sense of belonging. Conversations in Hindi, Urdu, Bengali, Telugu, Malayalam, Sinhalese and Tamil fill the air, while families often bring home-cooked meals to share, deepening the sense of community.

“There are many affordable South Asian eateries and convenience stores here, which see a significant rise in business on Fridays. Some even offer special weekend menus,” said Vishai, another Indian expat. At the center of the area’s roundabout, informal groups gather to read, sing or play games — turning public spaces into zones of camaraderie and celebration.

However, alongside this vibrant atmosphere, Maliya also sees a rise in unlawful activities. Behind shopping centers and in secluded alleys, some individuals exploit the large gatherings to engage in illegal gambling and other prohibited acts. Kuwait Times observed security personnel pursuing suspects in hidden corners of the area. “Sometimes fights break out when people lose money. We’ve raised concerns, but there’s little we can do. It’s obvious something illegal is going on,” said a shopkeeper who requested anonymity.

Gambling is strictly forbidden under Kuwaiti law, yet its persistence in areas like Maliya — where dense housing and narrow alleyways provide concealment — poses ongoing challenges for law enforcement. Police and Criminal Investigation Department (CID) teams routinely conduct raids, seizing gambling materials and cash. Some operations have also uncovered illegal alcohol sales and physical altercations tied to gambling disputes. “While most people come here for genuine recreation, a small number misuse the opportunity for illegal activities, compromising public safety,” the shopkeeper added.

As Maliya awakens each Friday, it becomes more than just a cultural hub — it becomes a space for emotional connection. For many South Asian expatriates, especially singles, the area has quietly evolved into a place to meet and interact. “For some of us, Friday is not just a day of rest — it’s a chance to connect,” said Arjun Bharat, a 28-year-old chef who has lived in Kuwait for four years. “Back home, relationships are often arranged by families. Here, we’re free to find someone who understands our struggles and dreams.”

Dressed in their finest clothes, many arrive with hopes of meeting someone special. “It’s fun to be here on Fridays,” said Diya, a young woman working in retail. “I’d love to find someone here. We understand each other better and are free from family pressures.” Young women often come accompanied by friends or older relatives, strolling through the area, sharing meals and chatting in their native languages. “There are many stories of couples who met here and later married,” added Vaayan, Diya’s friend.