Because scanning every passport and questioning every visitor about their plans in the country isn’t “secure” enough, Kuwait’s taking passport check to the next level. They want your DNA.
Before the end of the year, visitors—as well as Kuwaitis, expats, and businessmen—to the Arab nation will need to submit a proper DNA sample before stepping foot in the country. Perhaps thankfully, the DNA sample only needs to be a swab of saliva or a few drops of blood as if entering the country be like making a “best friends forever” pact in fifth grade.
Officials insist the test will only be used “to fight crime and terrorism,” and in no way will the
country test for “lineage” or “medical” factors, nor will they infringe on any privacy—possibly said with a cough and a nudge. At least that’s what they told the Kuwait Times.
For those traveling to Kuwait, the test will be mandatory—so you can’t get out of it with a sick
note from a doctor or an old heroin needle—and, if you don’t comply, officials will “apply the
measures stipulated in the law,” which seems to still be unknown, but, considering the country, that could be a slap on the back—literally, they’ll lash it.
Though the measure seems a tad extreme, at least it’s now a reason not to complain about the shoe removal, body scan, and questioning about your 3.4 oz tube of Aquafresh that you receive going through security at US airports.
Tom is a travel writer, part-time hitchhiker, and he’s currently trying to imitate Where in the World is Carmen Sandiego? but with more sunscreen and jorts.