Let me start by saying that I’m a male expat from Europe. I’ve lived here for quite some time now, and honestly, I’m experiencing cultural shock.

Back in my home country, and when I lived in the UK, I could attend a public event, spot someone interesting, approachable, and attractive, and strike up a conversation. We’d exchange numbers, go on a date, have a great time, and more often than not, it would lead to something wonderful.

Here in Kuwait, it's a completely different story. Dating seems almost forbidden and possibly even against the law. Dating apps are filled with bots, meme accounts, escorts, and people who seem only interested in marriage—not in dating or getting to know someone first.

I understand that this aligns with Islamic traditions and values, but as a Christian expat, I’d love to go on a date with like-minded women, enjoy a wonderful time, and build something meaningful first.

So my question is for anyone in a similar situation: how are you navigating this? Where do you meet Europeans, Americans, or others who are looking for a relationship and not just a spouse?

Edit: First of all, I'd like to thank everyone for their response to this post. Most of them have been very helpful, and I'm very thankful for that.

I'd like to address a few points that seem to have been repeating as not everyone read my replies, which is to be expected since there are so many comments!

1. I'm NOT looking for muslim women, my post was directed for expats such as myself, I understand your culture and the last thing on my mind is to ruin any chances of marriage for any young muslim woman out there.

2. I'm not looking for an escort or a hookup either, I want to build a genuine connection with someone, and get to know them first, and if we are into each other then go for the physical.

3. I didn't say I was against marriage. What I said is that I don't want to get married for the sake of knowing someone physically, as this is not the norm in my culture. What we usually do is date someone for some time, get to know them emotionally, mentally, physically, live together, see if we are truly compatible as life partners, and only then it is reasonable to marry that special someone.

4. Everyone who mentioned places, events, and opportunities to find like-minded expats I owe you big time, and I'll be looking into each one of them over the weekend.

I hope this clarifies a few things for future readers and for current commenters, and if there is a need to update, then I'll gladly do so.

If you have questions or would like to talk, then feel free to contact me as well

Thank you for your time.