UAE Introduces Visa on Arrival for Eligible Kenyan Travellers

Kenyan travellers who hold valid residence permits in several developed countries can now apply for visas on arrival in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The change follows a new directive announced by the UAE Embassy in Nairobi.

In a statement, the embassy said the arrangement took effect on June 25, 2026, and applies to holders of ordinary Kenyan passports and their accompanying family members, provided they meet the eligibility requirements.

The embassy added that the visa-on-arrival programme is available to Kenyans with valid residence permits from the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, Japan, Singapore, South Korea, Canada, and New Zealand.

“Effective June 25, 2026, the United Arab Emirates will grant visas on arrival to ordinary passport holders from the Republic of Kenya, and their accompanying family members who hold valid residence permits from these countries,” the embassy said.

The embassy added that the eligible residence permits include those issued by the US, the United Kingdom, Australia, Japan, Singapore, the Republic of Korea, Canada, and New Zealand. It said the initiative reflects the UAE’s commitment to making travel easier and to reinforcing the country’s appeal as a global destination for tourism, business, and investment.

The new policy is expected to reduce travel friction for thousands of Kenyans living abroad by eliminating the need to secure a UAE visa before departure. The UAE Embassy said the change also forms part of broader efforts to promote easier travel and deepen connections between the UAE and international visitors, particularly those from Kenya.

However, the embassy clarified that the visa-on-arrival programme applies only to travellers who hold valid residence permits from the specified countries. Kenyans who do not have the qualifying residence permits will still need to apply for visas through the normal channels before travelling to the UAE.

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