Kuwait introduces mandatory app for travel

Directive seeks to facilitate movement in and out of the country

Kuwait is aiming to boost confidence in air travel by requiring mandatory use of a new Covid-19 app for international travellers.

The KuwaitMosafer app collects and confirms passengers’ Covid-19 test results, vaccination records and quarantine arrangements, and must be used by all passengers travelling in or out of the country.

The move comes after more than a year of strict border controls and ahead of an expected easing of restrictions.

Currently, Kuwaiti residents and citizens have to provide a negative PCR test conducted no more than 72 hours before travel and then quarantine at home on arrival for seven days.

From 1 August, fully-vaccinated tourists will be allowed to travel to Kuwait. They must also show proof of a negative PCR test conducted no more than 72 hours before travel and quarantine for seven days after landing in Kuwait.

KuwaitMosafer can also be used to share vaccine records with other countries and airlines via the Common Trust Network, created by the World Economic Forum. This network allows the secure sharing of verifiable Covid-19 vaccinations and test results.

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KuwaitMosafer was launched by Kuwait’s National Aviation Services. Its group chief executive, Hassan El Houry, said more than 500,000 passengers had so far used the service.

“As people start looking towards resumption of air travel, health is a priority and the digitisation of testing and vaccine data have a leading role to play,” he said.

“KuwaitMosafer checks all the boxes and is now preparing for the country to open its door for the return of expats and visitors in the near future.”

Kuwait is aiming to fully vaccinate its population so that it can reopen its borders and El Houry believes KuwaitMosafer can play a key role.

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