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New decree sets rules for DNA and biometric testing in citizenship cases

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KUWAIT: Kuwait’s ministry of interior issued ministerial decree no. 678/2025 outlining how modern scientific methods — including DNA and biometric testing — may be used to determine whether an individual qualifies for Kuwaiti citizenship or is subject to revocation of it. Published in the official gazette Kuwait Al-Youm, the decree defines key terms, identifies who may be subject to testing and establishes procedures and legal safeguards for using biological samples in citizenship-related cases.

The decision formalizes rules around testing that had previously been applied on a case-by-case basis and expands the role of forensic science in verifying lineage or identity. The decree, which takes effect from the date of its publication, comes amidst a widespread government campaign that has revoked the citizenship of more than 35,000 people since its launch in August 2024. Here’s what the new decree means.

What is the purpose of the decree?

The decree aims to provide a legal and procedural framework for using scientific evidence in cases involving the granting, revoking, withdrawal or loss of Kuwaiti nationality. It codifies the types of scientific tests that can be used — such as DNA analysis and biometric identification — and sets standards for how these tests should be conducted, by whom and under what conditions.

Who can be tested under the decree?

The decree applies to individuals whose citizenship status is under review. These individuals, referred to as “subjects” in the text, may be asked to undergo testing to confirm their entitlement to Kuwaiti nationality or to assess whether their nationality should be withdrawn or revoked.

What kinds of scientific methods are permitted?

The decree authorizes the use of several scientific methods, including genetic fingerprinting (DNA testing), biometric data collection (such as fingerprint, iris and facial scans) and any other future technologies approved by the ministry of interior. DNA tests are used to establish familial relationships and confirm identity based on inherited genetic traits, while biometric tools compare unique physical features to verify a person’s identity.

Who conducts the testing?

The decree assigns responsibility for carrying out tests to specialized government-approved centers, including the department of criminal evidence within the ministry of interior. These centers must be equipped with certified medical and technical equipment, and all testing must be performed by qualified professionals. Analysts must have no familial or personal connection to the individuals under investigation and must not have any criminal convictions that might affect their integrity.

How is data stored and protected?

All biometric and genetic data collected under the decree is stored in secure databases managed by the ministry of interior. The decree mandates detailed recordkeeping and requires that all steps — from sample collection to the issuance of test results — be documented. These records must be available for review upon request by the relevant authorities. Confidentiality is emphasized throughout the decree, with strict provisions in place to ensure that individuals’ genetic information is handled discreetly and only accessed for official purposes.

What is the procedure for DNA testing?

To begin the DNA testing process, officials must obtain approval from the general department of nationality and travel documents, or another authority designated by the minister of interior. Biological samples — such as blood, saliva or hair — are collected from the individual, and the analysis is carried out in authorized laboratories. Eligible samples include blood, semen, hair, bone, saliva, urine, amniotic fluid, fertilized egg cells post-division and body cells.

The labs extract and examine DNA to determine whether the individual’s genetic profile matches that of family members or records previously stored. After completing the analysis, a sealed report is submitted to the General Department of Criminal Evidence, which then forwards its final recommendation to the nationality department.

Can people request retesting?

Yes, the decree allows for retesting if requested by the subject of the investigation or by the testing center, provided that the ministry of interior grants approval. The retest must follow the same procedures outlined in the original testing process.

How are the results used?

Once the analysis is complete, the general department of nationality and travel documents prepares a legal opinion based on the test findings. This opinion assesses whether the individual qualifies for Kuwaiti citizenship or not. The final decision is referred to the supreme committee to investigate Kuwaiti citizenship, which determines the appropriate action — including the potential granting or revocation of citizenship.

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KUNA Acting Director visits Huawei, urges digital tech for media advancement

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 SHENZHEN, China:  Acting Director General of Kuwait News Agency (KUNA), Mohammad Al-Mannai, visited Sunday the headquarters of Chinese tech giant Huawei in Shenzhen during his official trip to China.

The visit aligns with KUNA’s efforts to integrate digital solutions and adopt new technologies to enhance media content production.

During the visit, Al-Mannai met with Huawei’s Deputy CEO for the Northern Gulf Dai Xing, to explore cooperation in digital infrastructure, media tools, and training programs aimed at enhancing KUNA’s editorial and technical team capabilities.

Al-Mannai emphasized the importance of collaborating with leading tech companies like Huawei to boost media capabilities through digital innovation, highlighting the urgent need to adopt advanced digital technologies that are transforming data analysis and audience engagement.

Al-Mannai and his delegation toured Huawei’s exhibitions, and Research, and Development (R&D) Center, where they were introduced to the latest innovations in automation and digital media solutions.

The visit was held on the sidelines of KUNA’s participation in the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Media and Think Tank Forum, held in Zhengzhou, China. The delegation includes Acting Editor-in-Chief Mohammad Al-Bahar and Director of Marketing and Public Relations Lamia Al-Farsi.— KUNA

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192 arrested in security sweep; weapons seized

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KUWAIT: The Ministry of Interior announced the arrest of 192 violators and wanted individuals during a wide-ranging security campaign launched by the General Department of Residency Investigations. The campaign targeted several densely populated areas, including Jahra, Jleeb Al-Shuyoukh, Mahboula, Qurain Markets, Ahmadi and Fahaheel.

In a statement issued Friday, the ministry said the campaign comes within the framework of an ongoing nationwide crackdown across all governorates, carried out under the directives of First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Sheikh Fahad Yousef Saud Al-Sabah. The operations are being implemented under the direct supervision of Acting Undersecretary of the Ministry of Interior Major General Ali Al-Adwani. The ministry affirmed its continued efforts to uphold the law and ensure public safety, noting that violations of residency and labor regulations will be dealt with firmly. It stressed that accountability will apply to both the violator and the employer and warned that no leniency will be shown to those found breaking the law.

Meanwhile, in a separate operation, the General Directorate of Weapons Investigation—represented by the Search and Investigation Department—arrested two individuals working for a local airline on charges related to the possession of unlicensed ammunition and alcoholic beverages. According to the ministry, the first suspect, a Pakistani national employed as a doctor, was detained at Kuwait International Airport after 64 rounds of ammunition were discovered in his luggage. During questioning, the suspect confessed to owning the ammunition and claimed he had received it from a colleague.

Following this admission, a second suspect, a Kuwaiti citizen working as a pilot, was arrested at the airport. Upon interrogation, the suspect confirmed the doctor’s statements. A search warrant was subsequently issued by the Public Prosecution to inspect his residence and vehicle, leading to the discovery of 500 additional rounds of unlicensed ammunition.

Further searches at a secondary residence in Shab Al-Bahri uncovered 87 bottles of alcoholic beverages along with equipment and materials used in alcohol production. The suspect confessed to possessing the unlicensed ammunition and to manufacturing alcohol using tools purchased online. The two suspects were referred to the competent authorities for further legal action. The Ministry of Interior reiterated its firm stance against all forms of illegal activity and affirmed that it will continue its operations to safeguard public security. — Agencies

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KOC and KU to enhance joint research

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KUWAIT: A delegation from Kuwait University visited Kuwait Oil Company (KOC) in Al-Ahmadi on July 23, 2025 to discuss ways to enhance joint research cooperation between the two institutions. This visit comes as a follow-up to the existing coordination on the main research agreement signed between the two parties in July 2019, relating to cooperation in the fields of reservoirs and heavy oil, which aims to achieve strategic research and development objectives.

The agreement focuses on strengthening research cooperation between Kuwait University and Kuwait Oil Company through technology and knowledge transfer, improving oil production and refining processes, developing industrial and technological processes through scientific research, and attracting as many members of the university’s academic staff as possible.

At the beginning of the visit, the Kuwait University delegation, represented by Assistant Vice President for External Research Cooperation and Consultancy Dr Mubkhout Mohammed Al-Dosari and Assistant Vice President for Research Funding and Implementation Dr Abdul Latif Abdullah Al-Rashdan, met with Kuwait Oil Company Vice President for Gas and Innovation Amina Rajab. Rajab praised Kuwait University’s efforts in promoting fruitful research cooperation with Kuwait Oil Company and stressed the importance of intensifying research related to the challenges facing the natural gas sector.

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During the meeting, Dr Mubkhout Al-Dosari affirmed that Kuwait University is working, under the signed agreement, to support the company’s decision-making process, contributing to the development of effective strategies that support research interests and achieve scientific progress through external partnerships, to direct research towards creativity and innovation.

The delegation also met Bader Mohammed Al-Ajmi, Director of Innovation and Technology, who welcomed the attendees and emphasized the importance of cooperation between the two sides in serving research, development, and comprehensive development for the benefit of the State of Kuwait. During the meeting, Dr Abdul Latif Al-Rashdan addressed the most prominent administrative, technical, and financial issues facing researchers in projects fully funded by Kuwait Oil Company, which were discussed and possible solutions were developed to deepen cooperation between Kuwait University and Kuwait Oil Company.

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