Salmiya, city in Hawalli Governorate, Kuwait
Salmiya is a coastal city in Hawalli featuring residential high-rises alongside shops and traditional markets spread across twelve blocks. The streets connect residential areas to commercial zones, seafront promenades with restaurants, and cultural facilities like the Science Center and Boulevard Park, creating a mixed-use environment.
Salmiya was named after Sheikh Salem Mubarak Al-Sabah and received its current name in 1953. The area was historically known for fishing and pearl diving before being extensively rebuilt following the Gulf War in the early 1990s.
Salmiya displays a visible cultural diversity, with multiple nationalities shaping the streets and neighborhoods. The local markets, restaurants, and cafes reflect this blend, offering foods, languages, and traditions from around the world to those passing through.
The city is well served by bus stations and stops connected to key locations like the American University, making travel straightforward. Taxis are plentiful throughout, with negotiable fares, or you can walk along the wide streets like Gulf Road to explore different sections.
Kuwait's first shopping mall still stands here today, serving as a landmark of the country's modern retail development. A planned cricket ground could expand sports offerings in Kuwait and potentially attract international teams to the region.
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