Kuwait home to over 1 million Indians — 20% of population

Dubai: More than one million Indian nationals are currently living and working in Kuwait, making them the largest expatriate community in the country, according to India’s Ambassador to Kuwait, Dr. Adarsh Swaika.

In an interview with Al Qabas following a meeting with Acting Director General of the Public Authority for Manpower, Marzouq Al Otaibi, Ambassador Swaika highlighted the enduring strength of Indo-Kuwaiti ties and the importance of ongoing dialogue on labor and employment issues.

According to official data from the Public Authority for Civil Information, as of December 31, 2024, a total of 1,007,961 Indian nationals reside in Kuwait — accounting for around 20 per cent of the country’s total population.

“The scale of the Indian presence in Kuwait is a clear reflection of the trust and interdependence between our two countries,” Swaika said. “We are committed to ensuring the wellbeing of our nationals here while strengthening cooperation with our Kuwaiti partners.”

Indian workers are spread across all major sectors — from senior executives, doctors, engineers, and nurses to drivers, domestic workers, and household staff.

Breakdown of Indian employment in Kuwait:

Private sector: 537,653

Domestic labour sector: 328,587

Government roles: 22,828

Despite the significant numbers, the ambassador noted that challenges faced by Indian workers remain minimal, provided both parties adhere to Kuwait’s labor laws and bilateral regulations.

The Indian community in Kuwait has long played a pivotal role in the country's development. Their presence is not only a marker of economic contribution but also of the deep-rooted cultural and diplomatic relationship between the two nations.

While the number of Indian expatriates has remained relatively stable in recent years, demand continues to grow in sectors such as healthcare, engineering, and skilled labour, according to embassy sources.