United Arab Emirates Visa RequirementsFor Kenya passport holders
Kenyan citizens can obtain a UAE visa on arrival for tourism. Dubai and Abu Dhabi are major destinations for Kenyan business travellers and tourists, and the UAE is home to a significant Kenyan expatriate community.
Kenya passport holders can obtain a Visa on Arrival at United Arab Emirates ports of entry.
Kenyan citizens receive a visa on arrival at UAE airports (Dubai International, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah). The visa on arrival fee is approximately AED 100-200 (~$27-55 USD) and is valid for 30 days, with a possible 30-day extension. Required: valid Kenyan passport (at least 6 months validity), return or onward flight ticket, and proof of sufficient funds. If you plan to stay beyond 30 days, you can apply online for a UAE tourist visa at icp.gov.ae before departure.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond date of entry
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Allowed
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Required Documents
Valid Kenyan passport (minimum 6 months validity)
Return or onward flight ticket
Proof of sufficient funds (credit card or cash)
Hotel booking or accommodation confirmation Recommended
Current Travel Situation
Kenya to United Arab Emirates: What You Need to Know
The UAE is one of the most important travel destinations for Kenyan citizens, serving simultaneously as a tourist destination, business hub, transit point, and home to a large Kenyan diaspora. Dubai is the primary draw, while Abu Dhabi and Sharjah also attract Kenyan visitors. Kenyan citizens receive a free 30-day visa on arrival in the UAE. The UAE serves as a major transit hub for Kenyans connecting to Asia, North America, and Europe.
How to Get There
Emirates, flydubai, Kenya Airways, and Air Arabia all operate direct Nairobi (NBO) to Dubai (DXB) flights. Emirates operates multiple daily frequencies. The direct flight from Nairobi to Dubai takes approximately 5 hours. From Dubai, Emirates and flydubai connect to hundreds of destinations worldwide.
Money & Banking
The UAE uses the UAE Dirham (AED). ATMs are widely available throughout Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Kenyan Visa/Mastercard bank cards work at UAE ATMs and in most shops and restaurants. Dubai can be expensive at upscale establishments, but mid-range options are plentiful; budget AED 200-400 per day for mid-range travel. The Dubai Metro is an excellent, affordable way to travel between major areas.
Practical Tips
The UAE visa on arrival makes the UAE one of the easiest destinations for Kenyan travellers to access with no advance visa required. Dubai Mall, Burj Khalifa, Palm Jumeirah, and the Dubai Museum are popular attractions. Abu Dhabi's Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is one of the most spectacular buildings in the world. The UAE observes Islamic customs; dress modestly in public areas and religious sites. Alcohol is available in licensed restaurants and hotels.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Kenyan citizens need a visa to visit Dubai?
Kenyan citizens receive a visa on arrival at UAE airports including Dubai International Airport (DXB). No advance application is required. The visa on arrival fee is approximately AED 100-200 (~$27-55 USD) and is valid for 30 days. You need a valid passport (6+ months validity), return ticket, and proof of funds.
Are there direct flights from Nairobi to Dubai?
Yes. Emirates, flydubai, Kenya Airways, and Air Arabia all operate direct Nairobi (NBO) to Dubai (DXB) flights. Emirates has multiple daily frequencies. The direct flight takes approximately 5 hours.
Can Kenyan citizens extend their UAE visa on arrival?
Yes. The 30-day visa on arrival can be extended for an additional 30 days. Extensions are processed through the UAE Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) at icp.gov.ae or through immigration offices in the UAE.