Why expats, Kuwaitis live in certain areas

By Chidi Emmanuel and Ghadeer Ghloum

KUWAIT: There are numerous reasons why people may choose to reside in a particular location. These reasons can be influenced by personal preferences, lifestyle choices, opportunities, family considerations and more. Among other factors, proximity to the workplace, family, friends and a support network have become crucial factors for many people when deciding where to live.

“Proximity to the workplace and friends is a significant factor for many foreigners when choosing where to live. People often choose residential areas that are closer to their workplaces, while others want a place where they can easily communicate with people of the same nationality. Other factors include affordable rent, safety and recreational opportunities. I chose Sabah Al-Salem because it is near my workplace and is quite affordable,” Lisa Matt Tendai, a Zimbabwean expat, told Kuwait Times.

As for Gabriel Alain, a Filipino expat, Salmiya remains the best. “Many Filipinos prefer to stay in Salmiya because of the vibrant Filipino expat community here. There are lots of Filipino restaurants and shops in this area, which is why we call it ‘Little Manila’ (referring to the area near the old Salmiya souq). Others might prioritize quieter neighborhoods like Mangaf or Jabriya for family-friendly environments or lower costs. It often depends on individual preferences and priorities,” he explained.

Jleeb Al-Shuyoukh and its environs are home to a large number of people from the Asian Subcontinent. “We feel at home here. Rents are cheaper in Jleeb compared to Salmiya and other parts of Kuwait. Also, we can easily buy our local foodstuff here,” Rohan Singh, an Indian expat, told Kuwait Times.

KUWAIT: In this file photo, people sunbathe and swim at the Marina Crescent beach resort in the Salmiya district, some 20 kilometers east of the Kuwaiti capital.

KUWAIT: Women and their families sit on the sand at the Marina Crescent beach resort in the Salmiya district.

For Kuwaitis, the choice might appear to be more straightforward, with the government providing land and a housing loan for married Kuwaitis in designated residential areas. However, many choose to reject the allocated land, opting to wait, sometimes for years, for the government to distribute land in an area they prefer. Despite the different circumstances, Kuwaitis’ choice of area is influenced by the same factors as expats: Proximity to workplaces and support networks.

The influx of individuals seeking employment opportunities has led to a concentration of residents in specific regions. Sociological and psychological factors are also at play. Kuwait Times spoke to locals to further understand why they prefer residing in certain areas despite the provision of government houses in alternative, less crowded locations.

Mohammad Hasan, a middle-aged Kuwaiti citizen, said the psychological factor forms the largest barrier hindering acceptance and encouragement to move to another residential area and change the place of residence. “Due to adapting to the surrounding people, and the sense of belonging to the community one grew up with, including school friends, neighbors and other community members, in addition to the local services and social relationships, one develops a significant and fundamental psychological barrier that instills fear of transitioning to a different area,” he said.

“People from the same community share a common culture, social norms, interactions and behaviors, making it easier to understand their duties, etiquette and social tastes,” Hasan said. The different cultural norms may pose challenges or lead to awkwardness in understanding and adapting to the new environment, he elaborated. “Having family members and relatives living in the same residential area or nearby areas can facilitate communication and visits easily,” he added.

Reem Fares, a Kuwaiti citizen, said workplace location and its proximity to the place of residence is an important factor when choosing where to live. Living close to where you work helps with saving time by facilitating quick access to work and returning home after work, she explained.

Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (Syndigate.info).