Why Your Next Weekend Getaway Should Be Kuwait Or Bahrain (And You Should Fly There In Style)

There’s something about a spontaneous weekend escape that feels undeniably luxurious – especially when it begins at 40,000 feet, nestled in a lie-flat seat, with the hum of a state-of-the-art Airbus A350 beneath you. Come January 8, that fantasy becomes a little more real for those eyeing Kuwait or Bahrain as Emirates rolls out its sleek new A350 for flights to these destinations.

But let’s be honest – most of us aren’t booking flights just to admire aircraft interiors (as irresistible as Emirates’ next-gen cabins might be). The real question is: What’s waiting for you when you land?

Whether you crave the quiet elegance of Bahrain’s old souks or the buzzing café culture of Kuwait City, these two Gulf gems promise more than just layover stopovers. They’re destinations that deserve the full weekend treatment. And with flights as short as an episode of Succession, there’s really no excuse not to go.

Destination: Kuwait

For many, Kuwait conjures images of glistening skyscrapers and desert landscapes. But spend more than a few hours there, and you’ll realize that this city hums with a rhythm all its own – one that blends the opulence of oil wealth with a grounded, quietly rebellious cultural scene.

What to Do in Kuwait:
- The Avenues Mall – Yes, it’s a mall, but not just any mall. This sprawling retail paradise doubles as a social hub, architectural marvel, and the perfect spot to escape the midday heat. Think of it as Kuwait’s answer to Dubai Mall – but without the overwhelming crowds.
- Souq Al-Mubarakiya – For something less glossy, this historic souq is a sensory overload in the best way. Wander through narrow lanes filled with the scent of spices, tuck into sizzling kebabs at one of the hole-in-the-wall eateries, and bargain for antiques or perfumes.
- Kuwait Towers – You’ve seen them in every postcard, but the real magic lies inside. Dine at the revolving restaurant or simply ascend for panoramic views of the city. Sunset, as you might guess, is the prime time.
- Al Shaheed Park – Kuwait’s largest urban park isn’t just for joggers and picnics. It’s home to museums, art installations, and beautifully landscaped paths that practically beg for a leisurely evening stroll.

Insider Tip: Coffee culture in Kuwait is serious. Skip the Starbucks and head to specialty cafes like Jumo Coffee Roasters or V60 for artisanal brews that rival those of Copenhagen or Melbourne.

Destination: Bahrain

Image Courtesy: Getty Images/Unsplash+

Bahrain feels like that effortlessly cool friend who somehow knows the best underground spots but can still get you into the city’s most exclusive clubs. It’s cosmopolitan without being showy, steeped in history yet buzzing with modernity.

What to Do in Bahrain:
- Manama Souq – Tucked behind Bab Al Bahrain, the iconic entrance to the old city, this souq is a labyrinth of shops selling everything from gold jewelry to Persian carpets. The nearby spice market? An aromatic wonderland.
- Qal'at al-Bahrain (Bahrain Fort) – A UNESCO World Heritage site that feels more like a time capsule. Walk the grounds of this ancient fort and take in layers of history dating back to 2300 BC. Bonus: It’s free to enter.
- Muharraq Island – Forget the skyscrapers and head to this island for a deep dive into Bahraini heritage. The restored traditional houses, now cultural centers, tell stories of pearl divers and merchants from centuries past.
- The Ritz-Carlton Beach – For a dose of modern luxury, park yourself at The Ritz. White sands, infinity pools, and a sushi restaurant that arguably serves the best maki rolls in the Gulf.

Insider Tip: Bahrain’s culinary scene punches well above its weight. Book a table at La Table Krug by Y for a Michelin-worthy experience or grab grilled seafood at Emmawash Traditional Restaurant, where locals go for authentic Bahraini fare.

Flying There

Let’s not pretend the journey isn’t part of the fun – especially when you’re flying Emirates’ new A350.
Here’s the thing: short-haul flights often get the short end of the stick when it comes to aircraft perks. But Emirates is flipping that script. The A350’s high ceilings, wider aisles, and that heavenly lie-flat Business Class seat transform what could be an ordinary hour in the sky into something decidedly indulgent.

- Business Class – Expect privacy, lie-flat seats, and a fine dining experience that feels more 'tasting menu’ than airplane meal. Think regionally inspired dishes and award-winning wines.
- Premium Economy – For those who want a little more space but don’t need the full bells and whistles. Plush, reclining seats and champagne on arrival? Yes, please.
- Economy – Even back here, things are looking up. Think spacious seating and access to Emirates’ ice entertainment system, which has more films than your Netflix queue.
With flights scheduled at both prime and off-peak hours, it’s easy to build a getaway that works around your schedule – whether that’s a dawn departure for a full day of exploration or an afternoon flight for those who prefer sleeping in.

There’s a subtle shift happening in Gulf tourism – one that leans more toward curated experiences and less toward bucket-list checking. Bahrain and Kuwait exemplify this. They aren’t shouting for your attention like their flashier neighbors, but that’s exactly the appeal.

With the A350’s arrival, getting there feels less like a commute and more like a preview of the indulgence waiting on the other side.

So, why not trade the ordinary for something a little more impulsive? Throw a weekend bag together, book that flight, and let Bahrain or Kuwait surprise you. If nothing else, the journey alone will be worth it.