Al Hamra Tower

Al Hamra Tower rises over four hundred metres in central Kuwait City and is the tallest building in the country, its form generated by a solid concrete wall that twists as it rises to shade the southern face from the sun while leaving the northern side open to the view. It was completed in 2011. The shape is a direct response to the climate rather than decoration, which is what makes it worth looking at.

What you actually see

• The twisting wall - the concrete face that turns as it rises to block the sun.
• The height - over four hundred metres, the tallest in Kuwait.
• The climate logic - a form generated by shading rather than styling.
• The city skyline - the tower dominating central Kuwait City.

When to go

November to March is the comfortable season for walking around the base. The tower is visible year round. Late afternoon light shows the twist best.

Honest expectations

There is no public observation deck; the upper floors are commercial and restaurant access is by booking. The visit is essentially looking at it from outside. Parking in the centre is difficult.

Nearby

Souq Mubarakiya is north, and the Kuwait Towers are northeast.