DGCA embroiled in ‘Conflict of Interest’ allegations over passenger system tender
The bidding documents issued by the Directorate-General of Civil Aviation for a project to supply, install, and operate a passenger registration and early detection system have sparked controversy due to what sources describe as a clear conflict of interest.
The documents contained highly specific technical requirements and references that directly match the systems and equipment of a particular company participating in the tender. This suggests the documents may have been tailored to favor that company, compromising the fairness and transparency of the bidding process, reports Al-Jarida quoting informed sources.
The controversial 10-year tender by the DGCA to manage a passenger registration system—valued between 150 and 200 million dinars—has come under scrutiny for alleged bias.
The bidding documents reportedly contain product references and terminology specific to one participating company, even linking to its website.
This has prompted several international firms to withdraw, raising concerns about fairness and transparency.
Observers warn such practices could damage Kuwait’s commercial reputation, especially ahead of the Terminal 2 (T2) launch. Oversight bodies are being urged to halt and revise the tender to ensure neutrality.
