UAE Introduces Visa-on-Arrival Option for Eligible Kenyans
By KASSM TV USA News Desk
DUBAI, UAE — The United Arab Emirates has introduced a visa-on-arrival facility for eligible Kenyan travellers, making it easier for some Kenyan passport holders to visit the country without obtaining a UAE visa before departure.
The new arrangement applies to Kenyan nationals travelling on ordinary passports who hold valid visas or residence permits issued by selected countries. The policy took effect on June 25, 2026.
Who Is Eligible?
The facility is available to Kenyan passport holders and accompanying family members who have valid residence permits issued by the United States, United Kingdom or a member state of the European Union.
Eligibility also extends to Kenyans holding valid residence permits issued by Australia, Japan, South Korea, Canada, Singapore or New Zealand.
Importantly, the new facility does not apply automatically to all Kenyan passport holders. Travellers must meet the specified eligibility requirements.
Two Visa Options Available
Eligible travellers can choose between:
14-day visa — AED 100, approximately KSh 3,523
60-day visa — AED 250, approximately KSh 8,808
The 14-day visa can be extended once for another 14 days, while the 60-day visa is non-extendable.
What Travellers Need
Upon arrival, eligible Kenyan travellers should proceed to an immigration officer and indicate whether they are applying for the 14-day or 60-day visa.
They should have their original Kenyan passport and the qualifying visa or residence permit used to establish their eligibility.
The final decision to issue the visa remains with UAE immigration authorities.
A Boost for Kenyan Travellers
The new arrangement could make travel to the UAE more convenient for Kenyans living, working or studying in countries covered by the policy.
For eligible travellers, visa-on-arrival access could simplify trips for tourism, business, family visits and other short-term travel.
The UAE, particularly Dubai, remains an important destination and transit hub for Kenyan travellers, businesses and the wider East African community.
Important: Holding a Kenyan passport alone does not qualify a traveller for the new visa-on-arrival facility. Travellers should confirm their eligibility and the latest UAE entry requirements before travelling.
KASSM TV USA News Desk
Reporting news for Kenyans at home and in the diaspora.
