Is it obligatory to face west or the Kaaba when praying, given that the direction of west does not align with the direction of the Kaaba at the questioner's location?

Facing the Qiblah is an individual obligation for one who can see the Kaaba. As for others, they should face its direction, based on the Almighty's saying: "And from wherever you depart, turn your face toward the Sacred Mosque; and wherever you may be, turn your faces toward it." Exceptions to this are the sick person who cannot turn, and in cases of extreme fear. Turning away from the Qiblah while being able to face it invalidates the obligatory prayer.