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Al-Hashemi II
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The Al-Hashemi II is a remarkable feat of modern wooden shipbuilding and a tribute to Kuwait's rich maritime heritage. Commissioned and built by the Al-Radwan family, a prominent Kuwaiti family, it holds the Guinness World Record for the largest wooden dhow in the world. Measuring 80.4 meters in length and 18.7 meters in width, it is a replica of a traditional 'Baghlah' type dhow, once used for trade across the Indian Ocean. Although fully seaworthy, it has never left port, serving instead as a lavish events venue and maritime museum adjacent to the Radisson Blu Hotel. The construction took several years and required the expertise of traditional shipwrights. The ship stands as a symbol of national pride, harking back to the era when Kuwait's prosperity depended on the sea, pearl diving, and maritime trade.
- Location: Kuwait
- Top sights: Messilah Beach · Falah Saad Al Juwaisari · Musaad Al-Mejrin
- Nearby: Al-Adan (4 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Mar, Apr, Nov.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 14 | 15 | 20 | 25 | 31 | 35 | 37 | 37 | 34 | 29 | 21 | 16 |
| Rain mm | 12 | 8 | 4 | 7 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 6 | 8 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Al-Hashemi II is a monumental wooden dhow that serves as a museum on the Kuwait City waterfront and can be visited inside. The ship is fully accessible and showcases the traditional craft of dhow building.
Typical hours
The museum ship is typically open daily from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM, on Fridays often from 2:00 PM only. It is advisable to check the opening hours before your visit, as they may differ on holidays.
Photography
Photography is allowed throughout the interior of the dhow, allowing great shots of the woodwork and deck. Flash should be avoided to protect the delicate exhibits and the atmosphere.
Time needed
Allow about 45 minutes to 1 hour for a thorough tour of the ship and its exhibits. Those interested in maritime history can easily spend 1.5 hours here.
Combine with
The ship is located near the Kuwait Towers and Souk Al-Mubarakiya, which are good for a combined day trip. The Kuwait National Museum is also just a short walk away.
Getting there
Al-Hashemi II is located on the coastal road in Kuwait City, easily accessible by taxi or car. Parking is available near the ship, but it is often occupied on weekends.
Insider tip
Combine your visit with a boat tour along the coast to see the dhow and the skyline from the water. The sunset light provides the best illumination for photos of the ship.
Geography
Facts
- Record: World's largest wooden dhow (Guinness)
- Length: 80.4 meters
- Width: 18.7 meters
- Type: Replica of a 'Baghlah' dhow
- Builders: Al-Radwan family
- Current use: Events venue, museum
- Location: Adjacent to Radisson Blu Hotel
- Symbolism: Kuwait's maritime heritage
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Al-Hashemi II (3)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is Al-Hashemi II?
The world's largest wooden dhow ship, listed in the Guinness World Records.
Where can you see the ship?
It is located on land next to the Radisson Blu Hotel in Salmiya.
Can you go on board?
The interior is often used for private events and banquets.
What was it built from?
It is made almost entirely of high-quality teak wood.
Is there a museum there?
Yes, there is a small traditional maritime museum right next to it.
Al-Hashemi II: where is it located?
Al-Hashemi II is located in Kuwait.
Al-Hashemi II: what is there to see?
Highlights include Messilah Beach, Falah Saad Al Juwaisari, Musaad Al-Mejrin.
Al-Hashemi II: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Mar, Apr, Nov.
Al-Hashemi II: why is it worth visiting?
The Al-Hashemi II is a remarkable feat of modern wooden shipbuilding and a tribute to Kuwait's rich maritime heritage.
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