Kairouan

Quality of life in Kairouan

Cost of Living, Healthcare, Safety, Education, and More

About Kairouan

Kairouan, located in the heart of Tunisia, is a city steeped in history and cultural significance. Known as the fourth holiest city in Islam, it serves as a spiritual and cultural hub for the region. The city is renowned for its stunning Islamic architecture, vibrant markets, and rich traditions that have been preserved over centuries.In recent years, Kairouan has seen a resurgence in tourism, attracting visitors eager to explore its historical sites and experience its unique cultural offerings. The city's economy is supported by a mix of traditional crafts, agriculture, and a growing service sector, making it a dynamic place to live and visit.
Climate
Outstanding
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Healthcare
Poor
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Crime
Very High
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Pollution
Moderate
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History and Culture

Kairouan was founded in 670 AD by the Arab general Uqba ibn Nafi and quickly became a center of Islamic learning and culture. Its strategic location made it a key military and trade hub in North Africa. Over the centuries, Kairouan has been influenced by various dynasties, including the Aghlabids, Fatimids, and Ottomans, each leaving their mark on the city's architecture and culture.

The Great Mosque of Kairouan, also known as the Mosque of Uqba, is one of the most important Islamic monuments in North Africa. It is a masterpiece of Islamic architecture, featuring a vast courtyard, a towering minaret, and intricate decorative elements. The mosque is a testament to the city's historical significance and its role as a center of Islamic scholarship.

Kairouan is also famous for its traditional crafts, particularly carpet weaving and pottery. The city's souks are bustling with artisans who continue to practice these age-old crafts, contributing to the city's cultural vibrancy. Festivals such as the annual Mouled celebration, which marks the birth of the Prophet Muhammad, highlight the city's rich cultural traditions and draw visitors from across the region.

Things to do in Kairouan

Visitors to Kairouan can explore the Great Mosque, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and marvel at its architectural grandeur. The Medina of Kairouan, with its narrow winding streets and vibrant markets, offers a glimpse into the city's past and present.

For those interested in history, the Aghlabid Basins, ancient water reservoirs built in the 9th century, are a must-see. These impressive structures highlight the engineering prowess of the time and the importance of water management in the region.

Kairouan's culinary scene is another highlight, with local dishes such as couscous and brik offering a taste of traditional Tunisian flavors. Visitors can enjoy these delicacies at local restaurants or street vendors throughout the city.

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Tunisia

Quality of Life Rankings

The Quality of Life Rankings for Tunisia reflect how livable a city in Tunisia is. It considers factors like purchasing power, pollution, housing affordability, cost of living, safety, healthcare, commute times, and climate. A higher index score means a better quality of life.
Best to WorstUpdated: Oct, 2025

Weather in Kairouan

Kairouan, Tunisia experiences a Mediterranean climate characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The city receives an average annual precipitation of approximately 15 inches (380 mm), with December being the wettest month, averaging around 2.5 inches (63 mm) of rainfall.

Seasonal Breakdown
  • Spring (March to May)Temperatures gradually rise from an average high of 68°F (20°C) in March to 82°F (28°C) in May. Rainfall decreases during this period, with March receiving the most precipitation, averaging around 1.5 inches (38 mm).
  • Summer (June to August)The hottest months, with average highs ranging from 91°F (33°C) in June to 97°F (36°C) in July and August. Rainfall is minimal during the summer, averaging less than 0.5 inches (13 mm) per month.
  • Autumn (September to November)Temperatures gradually decrease from an average high of 88°F (31°C) in September to 72°F (22°C) in November. Rainfall increases, with November receiving around 2 inches (50 mm) of precipitation.
  • Winter (December to February)The coldest period, with average highs ranging from 64°F (18°C) in December to 63°F (17°C) in February. December is the wettest month, with rainfall averaging about 2.5 inches (63 mm).
Notable Weather Events
  • Occasional heatwaves during the summer months, with temperatures exceeding 104°F (40°C).
  • Rare instances of heavy rainfall leading to temporary flooding, particularly in the autumn months.
  • Mild winter conditions with minimal risk of frost or snow.

Kairouan's Political Climate

Predominantly Islamist with a significant secular presence

Kairouan, a city in Tunisia, is known for its rich historical and cultural significance, which also extends to its political landscape. As a city with deep Islamic roots, Kairouan has traditionally been a center of religious and cultural influence in Tunisia. The political climate in Kairouan is reflective of the broader national trends in Tunisia, where the political scene has been dynamic and evolving since the 2011 revolution that led to the establishment of a democratic government.

The governance of Kairouan is influenced by Tunisia's national political framework, which is characterized by a multi-party system. The city has seen various political parties vying for influence, with a notable presence of both secular and Islamist parties. The current political leadership in Kairouan is focused on addressing local issues such as economic development, unemployment, and infrastructure improvement, while also aligning with national priorities.

Kairouan has been part of Tunisia's efforts to implement progressive policies, particularly in areas like education and women's rights. The city has also been involved in sustainability initiatives, although these are often challenged by economic constraints. The political climate in Kairouan impacts its economic and social decisions, with a focus on balancing traditional values with modern governance needs.

Recent political events in Kairouan include local movements advocating for better public services and increased transparency in governance. These movements reflect a growing trend of civic engagement and political activism among the residents, who are increasingly vocal about their demands for accountability and reform.

Political Quick Facts
  • Voter Turnout65%
  • City GovernanceMunicipal council with elected mayor
  • CompositionMixed, with representation from Ennahda and secular parties
  • Recent Political ChangesIncreased civic activism and calls for transparency
  • EngagementHigh, with active participation in local governance
  • Political ScorecardModerate, with room for improvement in transparency
  • Legislative PrioritiesEconomic development Infrastructure improvement Public service enhancement
  • Public OpinionGenerally supportive of democratic reforms and economic growth
Notable Political Figures
  • Mohamed Ali BouleymaneCurrent mayor known for his focus on infrastructure and public services.
  • Fatma Zohra Ben RejebLocal activist advocating for women's rights and social justice.
  • Ahmed Ben SalahInfluential political figure with a history in economic reform policies.