Can I use the Starling card in Kuwait in 2026?
If you’re planning a trip to Kuwait - or planning to move there to live, work or study - you’ve got an exciting time ahead. As the Kuwaiti Dinar (KWD) is the official currency in Kuwait you’ll need to find convenient ways to spend in Kuwaiti Dinars while you’re there.
This guide walks through how to use the Starling card in Kuwait for convenient and secure transactions, and offers some handy hints about making your money go further when you’re abroad.
Can I use the Starling card in Kuwait?
If you are a resident of United Kingdom and have a Starling card - or if you’re thinking of getting one - you’re probably wondering: can I use my Starling card to pay for things in Kuwait?
The answer is yes, you can use the Starling card for everyday spending in Kuwait. You can use the card to pay for things in Kuwaiti Dinars with competitive exchange rates and low transaction fees. This guide walks through how you’ll be able to use your Starling card to help manage your travel spending.
How to order a Starling card
Here is the process for securing your Starling card:
Download the App: Get the Starling Bank app from the App Store or Google Play Store. You will need to provide your phone number and email address to start the application.
Verify Your Identity: You’ll be asked to take a photo of a valid government-issued ID (such as a passport or UK driving license) and record a short video selfie. This video replaces the need for an in-person branch visit.
Provide Personal Details: Enter your address, employment status, and basic financial information. As Starling provides a regulated current account, they will perform a quick identity and credit check to approve your application.
Wait for Approval: Once your application is submitted, Starling usually reviews it within a few hours (though it can take up to 24 hours). You’ll receive a notification once your account is officially open.
Card Dispatch and Delivery: You don't usually need to "order" the card separately; your first contactless Mastercard is automatically triggered upon account approval. It will be delivered to your registered address within 3–5 working days.
Can I get the Starling card in Kuwait?
Unfortunately, the Starling card is not yet available for residents of Kuwait. You may find that Wise is a better option for residents; check whether Wise is available below.
See alternatives to StarlingWhat happens if I move to Kuwait?
You can continue using your Starling card until it expires, but you will not be issued a new card as Starling does not offer the card in Kuwait. You may be able to continue using other services, offered by Starling - we would recommend checking with their Customer Support team for more details.
An alternative to Starling in Kuwait: Wise
Visa/Mastercard debit card
Mid-market exchange rate
40+ currencies- Spend in Kuwaiti Dinars when visiting Kuwait ✅
- Not available to residents of Kuwait ❌
- Earn healthy interest rates on USD, EUR and GBP balances 💸
Hold and exchange 40+ currencies in your account and spend with your Wise card in 150+ countries globally. You’ll get the mid-market rate to convert currencies wherever you are in the world, with low fees - and some free ATM withdrawals every month, too.
Will my ATM card work in Kuwait?
While your ATM card will work in Kuwait it’s useful to know that cash will still be accepted by some shops and restaurants.
Cash is always useful to have, not just for paying the bill, but for tipping and gratuity as well.
Carrying a low cost ATM card when you’re in Kuwait is still a smart idea, so you can take out cash when you do find an ATM. You may also be able to use your card in larger hotels or restaurants, particularly in tourist areas.
However, keeping some cash on you at all times, as well as your card or cards is a smart plan, so you’re prepared no matter what happens.
How can I avoid ATM fees in Kuwait?
Don’t pay more than you need to when using an ATM. Here are some hints to avoid unexpected ATM fees in Kuwait:
Get a low cost ATM card which offers some free or cheap international withdrawals
Always pay in the local currency when you withdraw - this avoids additional charges and poor exchange rates offered by an ATM
Check if there’s a fixed cost per transaction for your ATM card. This might mean that making fewer, larger withdrawals is cheaper
Watch the ATM screen for warnings of extra fees the ATM operator may add - if there are going to be extra charges you may want to find an alternative terminal
Keep an eye on the exchange rate before visiting Kuwait
It's helpful to keep an eye on the Pound Sterling / Kuwaiti Dinar exchange rate before travelling to Kuwait. Whether you're planning on using Starling - or perhaps Wise - for spending in Kuwait, it's good to have an idea of the exchange rate so you don't get any nasty surprises when the bill arrives!
Loading chart data...
Tips for saving on your travel budget for Kuwait
Make the most of your money so you can do more on your trip to Kuwait. Here are some travel budget tips:
Pay for your luggage when you book your flight - this is cheaper than at the airport
Don’t exchange currency at the airport or your hotel, as this is often the most expensive place
Always pay in the local currency
Keep a few different payment methods on you at any time, just in case you need a backup plan
Get a travel card which has good exchange rates and low or no cost ATM withdrawals overseas
What is the best currency to take to Kuwait?
The Kuwaiti Dinar (KWD) is the official currency in Kuwait.
You can exchange your GBP before you leave United Kingdom if you’d like - but bear in mind that you won’t be able to spend GBP in Kuwait. If you arrive with cash in your pocket you’ll need to exchange it locally, which may come with unexpected costs, and take time out of your trip unnecessarily.
A better plan for lots of people is to get a travel card for spending abroad, with low costs and secure transactions.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Starling card will be OK for your trip to Kuwait. Use your Starling card in Kuwait to get low cost currency conversion and cash withdrawals, and to keep your budget down overall.
Unfortunately, the Starling card is not yet available for residents of Kuwait, so if you're planning on relocating you may need to consider alternatives.
Using the Starling card when you’re spending overseas can mean you get a better exchange rate and lower overall costs. Explore your card’s features and fees carefully to make sure you can get the most of it when travelling abroad.
The delivery time for a travel card in United Kingdom can vary a lot depending on the provider you pick. Get ready in advance so you’ve got your card in good time before your trip to Kuwait.
As per Starling's guidance, you can't use the card in the following places:
- Crimea
- Iran
- North Korea
- Russia
- South Sudan
- Sudan
- Syria
We retrieved Starling's and Wise's card coverage from the following sources:
- Where can I use my Wise card? - Wise (checked 02/02/2026)
- Can I get the Wise card in my country? - Wise (checked 02/02/2026)
- Can I use my card abroad and are there any fees or charges? - Starling (checked 06/02/2026)