The Kuwaiti Dinar (KWD) holds the distinction of being the world’s highest-valued currency unit. Introduced in 1960 to replace the Gulf Rupee, its strength is largely due to Kuwait’s robust economy and vast oil reserves. The dinar’s high value is also supported by the country’s policy of pegging its currency to a basket of international currencies, ensuring its stability against fluctuations. Unlike most currencies, the KWD is subdivided into 1,000 fils rather than the more common 100, which reflects historical Arabic coinage systems.

Deeply intertwined with Kuwait’s culture and history, the dinar carries vibrant designs on its notes, showcasing the region’s rich maritime heritage. These designs include illustrations of iconic Kuwaiti ships, which played a crucial role in the country’s trade and pearl-diving history long before oil transformed its economy. The KWD stands not only as a symbol of economic strength but also as a testament to Kuwait’s enduring cultural identity.