Is it considered a personal question to ask someone what their nationality is?

[sage2021]

In these uncertain times we are living in, would some people be offended if someone asked a person what nationality/nationalities they are?

[Lliam]

I sometimes ask people's nationality. I just think it's interesting. I love every nationality except Israeli. And people should be proud of their heritage.

The last time was at an event I went to recently. At lunch time, there were catering trucks outside. I went to the one that had gyros and falafels. I was curious, so I asked the boss about his nationality and he said it was Afghani. I was glad because I've run across Israeli colonists selling traditional Palestinian food and calling it Israeli.
The boss, his employees and I chatted happily for a few minutes before other customers showed up. We talked about Afghanistan (not war or politics) and the food. They were super friendly and happy to talk about their heritage with someone who was interested.

But there are lots other times I've asked people. My interest began at an early age when I learned that my ancestry is Irish. And I had good friends in jr high and high school who were different nationalities - Lithuanian, Polish, German, French, Italian, Mexican, German Jew, ...

When I was working as a motor vehicle damage field adjuster/appraiser, I went to many body shops and homes and met lots of people. l would often ask about their heritage and they were always happy to share. I found people from the Middle East to be some of the most kind and generous I ever met.

[Effably]

I'd just register it as interest and therefore flattering. Of course if done with a sneer and some condescending demeanour that changes quickly.

The question in and of itself? Perfectly fine!

[Aerissa_Jade]

No worries, someone will get offended if you say the sky is blue or the wind blows.

I do not consider that a problem, but someone, somewhere will. If your trying to avoid offending someone, you will not be able to.

[douride2]

I can only speak for myself and it wouldn't bother me.

[Anonymous]

Yes. I think it is a normal question like name, surname, age questions. Personally, I wouldn't offended. But I can a little embarrassed to just say where I'm from.

[PrettyPriya]

I certainly would not be offended by it.