The ATM just swallowed my debit card and didnt return it. This was in Kuwait, close to where Im staying. Any idea if local banks can help? Help SOS how to get it back
I had my Mastercard taken by a Kuwait Finance House ATM late on Thursday night. When I went to the branch on Sunday, they told me the card had already been destroyed. I had to cancel it and rely on my Monzo backup. While most shops and restaurants accept cards, taxis often want cash, so I was stuck. Lesson: only withdraw during banking hours and never depend on a single card in Kuwait.
My Wise Visa got swallowed by an NBK ATM near Salmiya. I went to the branch the next morning, and after checking my ID, they gave it back within half an hour. The staff were professional and used to dealing with foreign travellers. A friend had the same experience with Gulf Bank in Kuwait City. If you use ATMs at major branches during working hours, getting your card back in Kuwait is usually possible.
In Kuwait, ATMs are mainly operated by National Bank of Kuwait (NBK), Gulf Bank, and Kuwait Finance House. If your card is taken, go into the branch with your passport. NBK usually allows retrieval if you act quickly, but many ATMs destroy foreign cards within 24-48 hours. Always call the hotline printed on the ATM immediately. While waiting, freeze your card in your banking app. Kuwait is very card-friendly, but it’s still smart to carry some dinars just in case.
My Visa card was captured by a KFH (Kuwait Finance House) ATM near Salmiya. It was late at night, and no staff were around. I contacted their helpline, but they confirmed they don’t return foreign cards-only Kuwaiti-issued ones. I had to freeze it immediately and rely on cash. Keep spare USD or EUR; most exchanges take them easily.