Kuwait: Obesity

McDonald's Locations in Kuwait 

Obesity in Kuwait 

Although reports differ due to the inability to accurately track the BMI of countries, one thing is for certain; Kuwait is one of the top 5 fattest countries in the world. Personally, I would argue it is both the laziest and this fattest.

But Why? 

1. Cradle to grave welfare system. Over 90% of Kuwaitis are employed in the government sector. Although the workday is 7:30 – 2:30, many only work around 3 hours a day. 
2. Traditional clothing is ‘one size fits all’ in the waist. Men wear a white dish dasha, women a black Abaya. These pieces of clothing are better than maternity wear and also work well in hiding the girth. 
3. A Kuwaiti household is not complete without live-in maids (usually Filipino) . They act as nanny, cook and cleaner.
4. Drive everywhere. Sidewalks/bike trails are almost non-existent. 
5. More American fast food outlets than Canada (17 Krispie Kremes, 69+ McDonalds’). 
6. Kuwaitis don’t like to get out of their vehicles. When you got to a convenience store you lay the horn down, until a worker comes out to take your order. 
7. No taxes. Fast food is quite cheap. A Big Mac Meal will run you $5.80.