A sovereign state in the north east of the Arabian Peninsula in Western Asia, Kuwait lies on the north-western shore of the Persian Gulf. The country has the world’s fifth largest oil reserve with petroleum products accounting for almost 95% of exports. Kuwait has a long and rich maritime history, with a prominent role in the spice trade. Dhows, large wooden boats made from teak are still made and used. Seafood has been at the heart of the Kuwaiti cuisine for centuries. Kuwaiti architecture is mostly influenced by Islamic design.