Seif Palace, Kuwait City

Seif Palace stands as a captivating historic palace and one of the most renowned landmarks in Kuwait City. The palace's central and easily accessible location has been home to various structures since 1896. Construction of the current palace began in 1904 under the guidance of Sheikh Mubarak, and it has undergone three renovations throughout its history.

Situated opposite the Grand Mosque of Kuwait, Seif Palace served as the original seat of the Government of Kuwait since the late 19th century. The construction materials used in the palace reflect the local resources found in the country, including clay, rocks, limestone, wood, and metals. One of the palace's most recognizable features is the watchtower, adorned with blue tiles, while the roof is covered in pure gold, exemplifying the exquisite Islamic architectural style. The palace is adorned with original Islamic mosaic tile works, showcasing the craftsmanship and attention to detail of the era.

Only three years after the initial completion of the palace, Sheikh Mubarak decided to expand it by adding another wing, adhering to the same architectural style. This expansion was completed in 1910, making it the first building in Kuwait to have electricity when it was officially connected to the power grid in 1913. With an expansive area of approximately 16,000 square meters (172,223 square feet), the palace compound includes ten surrounding buildings, an artificial lake, a helicopter landing field, a yacht dock, a museum, an art gallery, and, notably, office spaces.

Following the first Gulf War, the tower of Seif Palace suffered significant damage from an incoming missile, which also destroyed the dial room. The Smith of Derby Group, an esteemed company, was entrusted with replacing the iconic clock. Notably, they were the only non-US company awarded a contract during the reconstruction period of the country. Despite these challenges, Seif Palace remains a major tourist attraction, captivating visitors with its alluring Islamic architecture.