1. No category

Al-Sayer Group
On-boarding in
Kuwait
Human Resources
18-Mar-15
AL-SAYER GROUP
CONTENT
CONTACT DETAILS ......................................................................................................................................... 3
ABOUT KUWAIT ............................................................................................................................................ 4
Overview ................................................................................................................................................... 4
Dress code in Kuwait ................................................................................................................................ 4
Kuwait laws and customs ......................................................................................................................... 4
Alcohol consumption in Kuwait ................................................................................................................ 5
LIVING IN KUWAIT......................................................................................................................................... 6
Accommodation ............................................................................................................................................ 6
Food .............................................................................................................................................................. 6
Transportation .............................................................................................................................................. 6
Public Transportation.................................................................................................................................... 6
KUWAIT DRIVERS LICENSE ............................................................................................................................ 6
Taxi ................................................................................................................................................................ 7
Civil ID ........................................................................................................................................................... 8
Charges, Time Limits & Penalties ............................................................................................................. 8
Collection of Civil ID Card ......................................................................................................................... 8
HEALTH CARE ................................................................................................................................................ 9
Your Government Health Card ................................................................................................................. 9
Hospitals and Private Healthcare ............................................................................................................. 9
TELEPHONES - MOBILES .............................................................................................................................. 10
BANKS - CURRENCY ..................................................................................................................................... 11
FLYING FROM AND TO KUWAIT .................................................................................................................. 12
PUBLIC HOLIDAYS........................................................................................................................................ 13
REGISTERING WITH YOUR HOME EMBASSY ............................................................................................... 13
USEFUL WEBSITES ....................................................................................................................................... 14
CONTACT DETAILS - ALSAYER GROUP ......................................................................................................... 15
Page 2 of 15
AL-SAYER GROUP
CONTACT DETAILS
Contact
Phone Number
Emergency Phone Number of:
• Police
• Ambulance
• Fire Brigade
112
Al-Sayer Group Kuwait
Al-Sayer Group
Kuwait Free Trade Zone - I
(Beside Mövenpick Hotel)
Shuwaikh Port
Address of Head Office
Al-Sayer Group
Kuwait Free Trade Zone - II
(Al-Sayer Office Building 2)
Shuwaikh Port
Human Resources
Postal Address
P.O.Box: 485, Safat: 13005, Kuwait
Telephone
+(965) 1 803 803 / +(965) 2224 0400
Website
www.alsayeronline.com
Telephone Directory
International Kuwait Code
00 965 xxxxxxx
Dialing a local mobile or land line phone from outside Kuwait: +965-local mobile phone number
Page 3 of 15
AL-SAYER GROUP
ABOUT KUWAIT
Overview
Kuwait is built on generations of Islamic traditions which are rooted firmly in its culture and tribal
heritage. These traditions have been passed down from generation to generation and form the
cornerstone of everyday life for the Kuwaiti family.
The Kuwaitis are friendly people who show tolerance and an open-minded approach to visitors in their
country, but their culture and values should always be respected. The culture and laws in Kuwait are
designed to ensure that everyone is respectful of each other regardless of their faith and nationality.
Visitors and residents alike should avoid types of improper conduct and behaviour which can otherwise
lead to fines, imprisonment and deportation.
Dress code in Kuwait
Kuwaiti dress conservatively in traditional dress and can be offended when people dress inappropriately
or not in accordance with Islamic values.
In public places such as shopping malls, restaurants and parks, you are encouraged to dress
appropriately. Clothing should not be transparent, indecently expose parts of the body or display
offensive pictures or slogans. Be aware that if you enter one of these areas dressed inappropriately you
may be asked to leave (most of the larger shopping malls display signs warning respectable clothing
should be worn). Any form of nudity is strictly forbidden.
Kuwait laws and customs
Sexual relationships outside of marriage are illegal, irrespective of any relationship you may have with
your partner in your home country. Cohabiting, including in hotels, is also illegal.
Dancing is allowed in the privacy of your home, but dancing in public is classed as indecent and
provocative.
Sexual harassment or randomly addressing women in public, or taking their photos without permission,
is strictly frowned upon.
Offensive language, spitting and aggressive behaviour (including hand gestures) are viewed very
seriously and can result in imprisonment and deportation. This includes road rage.
Holding hands for married couples is tolerated but kissing and hugging are considered offences against
public decency. Open displays of affection are generally not tolerated.
Page 4 of 15
AL-SAYER GROUP
Alcohol consumption in Kuwait
The consumption, importation and brewing of, and trafficking in liquor is strictly against the law.
Drunken behaviour in public or driving under the influence of alcohol is a punishable offence, making
the offender liable to a fine or imprisonment and/or deportation and withdrawal of the driving licence.
Sentences of up to three months in prison are not uncommon.
Drugs are strictly forbidden, even a residual amount. Consuming or carrying drugs, even if you are
transiting through the airport from one country to another, can result in an imprisonment and
deportation. Buying or selling narcotics is considered a serious crime which can result in life
imprisonment.
If you are using prescribed drugs it is advisable to carry a doctor’s note. If you are bringing prescription
drugs into Kuwait you may need to seek prior agreement from the authorities. You should check with
the nearest Kuwait Embassy or consulate before you travel.
Kuwait has a zero-tolerance policy towards drinking and driving. You can be charged and imprisoned if
you are caught with even the smallest amount of alcohol in your system. Tailgating, speeding, racing,
lane jumping and using a mobile phone while driving are all against the law.
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AL-SAYER GROUP
LIVING IN KUWAIT
Accommodation
During the first four (4) months of your employment, the company will provide you with free
accommodation. The apartment in which you will be staying will be fully furnished and equipped and
you will be sharing it with other graduates, of your age, who will be attending the same graduate
programme like you. During this period you are encouraged to look for an apartment of your choice and
to make all necessary arrangements for moving into it upon the completion of the 4 months period.
Before deciding in which apartment/area you will move to, it is advisable to request to be informed of
the routes that the company busses follow across the city of Kuwait.
Food
Kuwait offers a plethora of dining options with several restaurants across the city/state of various
cuisines and budgets. The company will provide you with an allowance for your initial employment
period (4 months). Upon completion of this period, this allowance will not be provided.
Transportation
The company will provide you with transportation from and to the location of employment during the
entire duration of your stay in company’s accommodation. Upon completion of your four (4) month
initial stay and when you have moved to an apartment of your choice and preference, you may choose
to take the one of the several company buses providing you are staying in an area where the buses do
pass from.
Public Transportation
Kuwait Public Transport Company provides its transportation services covering all Kuwaiti regions and
suburbs. The public transport fleet is distinguished by its punctual times. The number of buses in Kuwait
Public Transport Company fleet is more than 400. The fare is fixed on250 Fills.
KUWAIT DRIVERS LICENSE
For driving in Kuwait a local driver’s license must be issued. Government requirements for issuing a
license change frequently. Currently, a Kuwait resident needs to have a university degree, a monthly
income of 600 KWD and must be residing in Kuwait for at least 2 years before he/she is eligible to apply
for a license.
Page 6 of 15
AL-SAYER GROUP
Taxi
Taxies are a common transportation means in Kuwait. Taxies can be picked up anywhere on the streets
and ready to transport you from a place to another inside Kuwait. Be aware that the price is subject to
negotiation with the taxi driver and taxi meters even if used, they are not followed. The following table
presents the names of a number of taxi offices and their contact details.
Name
Phone Number
Name
Phone Number
British Taxi
23912282 - 22391229
Al-Mokhtar Taxi
23911211 - 23910023
Al-Osta Taxi
22410534 - 22412239
Al-Malek Taxi
22622244 - 25733114
Al-Rissalah Taxi
25730398 - 25758779
Al-Manameh Taxi
23901399 - 23902490
Special Taxi
23921700 - 23921800
Sara Taxi
25338545
Al-Millionaire Taxi
22666995 - 22666994
Salwa Taxi
25658203 - 25658219
Al-Wehdah Taxi
25528500 - 25528900
Metro Manila Taxi
25633307
Burgan Taxi
25750043- 25750042
Mustafa Karam Taxi
23980044 - 23980045
Mishwar Taxi
25729727 - 25729728
Makati Manila Taxi
25753004 - 25753003
Al-Jamaher Taxi
25733100 - 25733400
Happy Land Taxi
23919981 - 23919983
Asia Taxi
24888074 - 24888075
Wahet Al-Jahra Taxi
24673000 - 24559222
Emirates Taxi
24745006- 24745007
Al-Ta'er Taxi
25423188 - 25628222
Al-Abraj Taxi
24319940
Al-Rimal Al-Dahabiah
Taxi
25726444- 25722111
Al-Arz Taxi
23727755- 22612763
Paris Taxi
24733337 - 24733336
Al-Alfain Taxi
24810630 - 25613100
Al-Sultan Taxi
24804363
Al-Aman Taxi
23721112 - 23711115
Al-A'ali Taxi
24766401
Page 7 of 15
AL-SAYER GROUP
Civil ID
All residents in Kuwait are issued with a civil ID
which they should carry with them at all times.
The civil ID card shows the holder's civil number,
full name, date of birth (which is also included in
the algorithm for the ID number), local address,
blood group, sponsor's name, type of visa, etc,
and date of expiry of the card. Whenever the
card expires or an expatriate changes sponsor,
renews his residence or changes his address, the
civil ID card must be amended accordingly. The
company will arrange for your civil ID to be issued soon after your arrival in Kuwait.
Charges, Time Limits & Penalties
The charge for a civil ID card is KD2 when it is first issued and each time it is renewed. The charge is paid
when the card is collected. There is a fee of KD10 to replace a lost card.
An expatriate must apply for a civil ID card within 30 days of getting his residency, and must renew his
card within 30 days of renewing his residency.
Collection of Civil ID Card
It takes about 10 days for a civil ID card to be processed. Expatriates can ascertain the status of cards
under process through PACI's computerised telephone answering system by calling 1889988 (1for
replies in Arabic and 2 for replies in English) and keying in their civil ID number (for renewals) or the
serial number on the outside of the envelope in which the application was submitted.
The civil ID card can only be picked up in person at the PACI offices in South Surra from an electronic
dispensing machine. The actual machine to be used is ascertained by dialing the above telephone
numbers. Two Dinars plus the old civil ID card (if held) must be fed into the machine to obtain the new
card.
Al-Sayer (HR – Government Relations) will arrange for the issuance of Civil IDs for
you.
Page 8 of 15
AL-SAYER GROUP
HEALTH CARE
Your Government Health Card
Before a residency permit is issued or renewed, every expatriate is required to pay a government health
insurance premium in return for a health card. The Government Relations Team will assist with this
process.
Al-Sayer Group covers the cost of providing this health card to all employees.
Possession of the health card will ensure that you are able to receive medical treatment at any
government hospital or clinic on payment of a small charge per visit and are exempt from the daily
inpatient charges. Free treatment includes x-rays, some operations, laboratory tests and some
medicines.
However payment is required for specialized tests including MRI and CT scans. Nevertheless the costs
are still heavily subsidized.
Once you have obtained your Civil ID, Al-Sayer Group will apply and obtain the
health card for you.
Hospitals and Private Healthcare
Private Medical Care
Despite the comprehensive services provided by the public health service, private hospitals and clinics
thrive in Kuwait. The Ministry of Public Health regulates standards and the fees they may charge. The
private hospitals and clinics have their own pharmacies.
A list of a number of private hospitals and clinics along with their contact details can be found on:
http://www.e.gov.kw/sites/kgoenglish/portal/Pages/Visitors/TourismInKuwait/EssintialServices_Hospit
als.aspx
or on
http://www.visit-kuwait.com/info/hospitals-medical-centers.aspx
Page 9 of 15
AL-SAYER GROUP
TELEPHONES - MOBILES
1. Land Lines
All phone calls from land lines to land lines and to mobile phones are free of charge in the State
of Kuwait.
2. Mobile Phones
Mobile network operators in Kuwait are:
Zain
(www.kw.zain.com/kw/af/home.do )
Ooredoo
(www.ooredoo.com.kw/en )
Viva
(www.viva.com.kw )
How do I get my SimCard?
You will require the following documents:
•
•
Completed application form
Passport copy with Residence Visa / Entry Stamp or Civil ID
Page 10 of 15
AL-SAYER GROUP
BANKS - CURRENCY
Kuwait has a strong and transparent financial system in which a number of banks are operating.
Some major banks are:
Name
Tel.
Fax.
Web-site
National Bank of Kuwait
1801801
22431888
www.nbk.com
Commercial Bank of Kuwait
1888225
22621880
www.cbk.com
Gulf Bank
1805805
22450834
www.e-gulfbank.com
Al Ahli Bank of Kuwait
1899899
2242557
www.eahli.com
Ahli United Bank
1812000
22461430
www.ahliunited.com
Kuwait International Bank
1866866
22402611
www.kib.com.kw
Burgan Bank
1804080
22988206
www.burgan.com
Kuwait Finance House
1803333
22455135
www.kfh.com
Boubyan Bank
1820082
22454263
www.bankboubyan.com
The Dinar (KWD) is the currency of Kuwait. It is sub-divided into 1,000 fills and it is the highest-valued
currency unit in the world.
As of March 2015 the exchange rate of the Kuwaiti Dinar is:
1 KWD
3.33
2.27
25.45
3.14
12.76
5016.18
USD
British Pound
Egyptian Pound
Euro
Emirati Dirham
Lebanese Pound
2.36
Jordanian Dinar
For sending money back home, some well-known reliable
money exchange are: Western Union, Bahrain Exchange, UAE
Exchange, Al Muzaini Exchange.
Page 11 of 15
AL-SAYER GROUP
FLYING FROM AND TO KUWAIT
There are several airlines operating in Kuwait from the one international airport in service.
The national airline is Kuwait Airways.
Details of arrivals and departures in Kuwait’s international airport can be found on its web-site:
www.dgca.gov.kw
Airlines Operating in Kuwait
Air Arabia
www.airarabia.com
Air India
www.airindia.in
Bahrain Air
www.bahrainair.net
British Airways
www.britishairways.com
Egypt Air
www.egyptair.com
Emirates
www.emirates.com
Etihad Airways
www.etihadairways.com
Fly Dubai
www.flydubai.com
Gulf Air
www.gulfair.com
Iran Air
www.iranair.com
Jazeera Airways
www.jazeeraairways.com
Jet Airways
www.jetairways.com
KLM
www.klm.com
Kuwait Airways
www.kuwaitairways.com
Lufthansa
www.lufthansa.com
MEA
www.mea.com
Oman Air
www.omanair.com
Qatar Airways
www.qatarairways.com
Royal Jordanian
www.rj.com
Saudi Arabian Airlines
www.saudiairlines.com
Sri Lankan Airlines
www.srilankan.com
Syrian Air
www.syriaair.com
Tunis Air
www.tunisair.com
Turkish Airlines
www.turkishairlines.com
United Airlines
www.united.com
Page 12 of 15
AL-SAYER GROUP
PUBLIC HOLIDAYS
These dates are tentative, give or take a day or two, depending on the sighting of the moon's phase.
Because the Muslim calendar is lunar the year is 354 Days long. Days begin at sunset
For 2015 the public holidays are:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
January 1:
January 3:
February 25:
February 26:
May 16:
July 17-18:
September 23:
October 13:
New Year's Day
Mouloud (Birth of the Prophet)
National Day
Liberation Day
Al-Esra Wa Al-Meraj (Ascension of the Prophet)
Eid al-Fitr(End of Ramadan)
Eid al-Adha (Feast of the Sacrifice)
Islamic New Year
REGISTERING WITH YOUR HOME EMBASSY
For security reasons, each Al-Sayer employee is encouraged to register with the nearest home embassy
upon arrival.
Registrations are valid for one calendar year only, expiring, unless renewed on the 31 December each year.
Renewal of your embassy registration throughout your posting is your responsibility.
There are no costs for registering you and your resident dependents with your respective Embassy.
A useful website to find out general contact information for Embassies and
Consulates in Kuwait:
www.worldembassyinformation.com
Page 13 of 15
AL-SAYER GROUP
USEFUL WEBSITES
Government Authorities
Kuwait Government On-line
Ministry of Interior (Police)
Fire Brigade
www.e.gov.kw
www.moi.gov.kw/portal/venglish/
www.kwtfire.gov.kw/e-main.htm
Information about Kuwait
www.visit-kuwait.com
www.kuwait.alloexpat.com
Press / Magazines
Kuwait Times
Arab Times
http://news.kuwaittimes.net
www.arabtimesonline.com
Expatriate Web-Sites
Addressed mostly to Indian Expats
Addressed mostly to Filipino Expats
www.indiansinkuwait.com
http://kabayaninkuwait.com/tag/filipinos-inkuwait
Addressed mostly to Lebanese Expats
www.lebaneseinkuwait.com
Addressed mostly to Egyptian Expats
www.egkw.com
Several Facebook pages created by expats living in Kuwait
Shopping
Midas (new & 2nd Hand Furniture)
www.midasfurniture.com
Lulu Supermarket
http://kuwait.luluhypermarket.com
Friday’s market, outdoor market with a huge variety of new and second hand products
Page 14 of 15
AL-SAYER GROUP
CONTACT DETAILS - ALSAYER GROUP
AL SAYER GROUP,
www.alsayeronline.com/eng/contactus/index.htm
Al-Sayer Showrooms - Toyota, Lexus
Locations
Al Rai - Toyota
Shuwaikh Lexus
Al Rai - Toyota
Shuwaikh Lexus
Ardiya
Day l Timings
Sat - Thu
8:30 am - 12:30 pm
4:30 pm - 8:30 pm
Sat - Thu
8:30 am - 12:30 pm
4:30 pm - 8:30 pm
Sat - Wed
7:30 am - 1:00 pm
2:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Tel l Ext
1 803 803
ext : 2000
1 830 030
ext : 2600
Toyota Service Centre
1 803 803
Ext: 3200, 3240, 3288, 3209
Lexus Service Centre
Sat - wed
1 830030
7:30 am - 5:00 pm
Ext: 3700, 3710
Thu
7:30 am - 1:00 pm
Al-Sayer Certified Used Cars
Sat - Thu
1 803 803
8:00 am - 12:30 pm
ext : 2804 - 2807 - 2809 - 2804 - 2814 - 2835
4:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Ardiya Head
Office
Al-Sayer Car Rental & Leasing
Sat - Wed
1 803 803
7:30 am - 5:00 pm
ext : 5103 - 5102 - 5104 - 5105
Thu
7:30 AM To 1 PM
Page 15 of 15