Kuwaiti authorities are investigating 10 social media influencers on suspicion of money laundering. Public Prosecutor Dherar Al-Asousi ordered the freezing of their assets and bank accounts while imposing a travel ban after the Financial Investigation Unit flagged balances that could not be explained by earnings. The case involves prominent online personalities whose accounts were reportedly inflated by millions of dinars.
Prominent names in the probe include Fouz Al Fahad, known online as The Real Fouz with 3.2 million Instagram followers and owner of a beauty salon and makeup line. Farah Al Hady, who has more than 5 million followers and her own cosmetics brand, is also under scrutiny along with fashion personality Dana Al Tuwarish and Boutiqaat founder Abdul Wahab Al Essa. The investigation initially focused on five influencers before expanding with authorities linking some transactions to the popular e-commerce platform that allows influencers to run virtual boutiques.
One account was allegedly inflated to 20 million Kuwaiti dinars, equivalent to about 65 million U.S. dollars, while others reached up to 10 million dinars. The individuals had acquired luxury properties, yachts, jewelry, expensive watches and other high-value items. Officials determined these assets could not be justified through legitimate business earnings alone.
Al-Asousi directed the action after initial investigations confirmed the suspicions raised in the unit’s complaint. Al Fahad addressed her followers directly regarding the case. «I want to reassure my followers […] I am fine! Everything is okay! These are just routine legal work. Authorities have the right to investigate anything they feel is suspicious. They can question me and look into my account — I am happy to comply. They will find that everything is clean,» Al Fahad said.
The development has impacted Boutiqaat with reported sales dropping more than 90 percent since details of the case emerged. The platform continues to operate online without issuing a public statement on the allegations. Authorities continue to examine whether the site served as a conduit for the suspected activities.
Kuwait has faced repeated concerns about its exposure to corruption and money laundering. The country’s leadership has pledged that no one will be protected by position or name if involved in crimes affecting public funds. This probe highlights ongoing official efforts to monitor financial transactions tied to digital commerce and influencer marketing.
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