If you’re a Kenyan passport holder planning that much-awaited Dubai trip, here’s something you need to know. Many residents of Kenya, especially those under the age of 40, have seen their Dubai visa applications rejected over the past week, leaving plenty of travellers puzzled and frustrated. Whether it’s for a quick holiday, a family visit, or business, the rejections seem to be hitting a specific group hard, and everyone’s asking, “What’s going on?”
Dubai Visa Rejections Affects Kenyan Applicants
Social media has been buzzing with complaints from Kenyans whose short-term visa applications to Dubai have been turned down without clear explanations. The issue seems to focus on 30 and 60-day visa applications, with younger applicants, specifically those under 40 are facing the most rejections.
What about the visa applications of people over 40 years? Well, there are issues reported in that case. This has added more confusion, with no answers from the UAE authorities explaining the sudden spike in rejections.
Industry Voices Speak Up
According to Simon Kabu, CEO of Bonfire Adventures in Kenya, “Please note that for Kenyan passport holders, there has been some rejection of Dubai visas for the last week, especially for those below 40 years. Waiting for this to be resolved.”
The chatter online hasn’t slowed down either. One popular account, Soko Analyst, shared a screenshot of his rejected application, expressing frustration over the situation. His post, laced with criticism of local politics, has only added fuel to the debate.
But so far, no confirmed reasons have been given, and the UAE authorities have remained quiet.
UAE Tourist Visas for Kenyan Passport Holders
A UAE tourist visa is your way to visit Dubai and the rest of the Emirates. Whatever the purpose of your visit, this visa is essential.
Here’s a breakdown:
- 30-Day Visa: To apply for short or business trips
- 60-Day Visa: Great for extended stays with family or friends
- 90-Day Visa: For those planning a longer visit
Applicants typically need to clearly state their reason for visiting and the expected length of stay. But with these recent rejections, even travellers with solid travel plans are finding themselves stuck.
What Happens Next
We’re still waiting on an official word from the UAE authorities to explain what’s behind this sudden change. So, if you fall into the under-40 age group, have a quick word with your travel agent before locking in those Dubai plans — and double-check your paperwork while you’re at it!
Cover Image Courtesy: CanvaPro/maybefalse from Getty Images Signature