Kenya Visa for UAE Citizens
UAE citizens (Emirati passport holders) need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to visit Kenya. The Standard eTA costs $30 for a single entry and allows a stay of up to 90 days. Kenya replaced its older e-Visa system with the eTA, making the process quicker and less expensive. Emirati travelers can complete the entire application online at etakenya.go.ke. With direct flights from Dubai to Nairobi, Kenya is a popular safari destination for UAE residents. Apply at least one week before your planned departure.
Visa At a Glance
- Visa Type
- Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)
- Best Option
- Standard eTA
- Cost
- $30
- Processing
- 2-5 days
- Validity
- 90 days
- Entries
- Single
E-Visa Application
RecommendedCost
$30
Processing
2-5 business days
Stay Permitted
90 days
Entries
Single
How to Apply for E-Visa
Go to etakenya.go.ke and create an account
Select 'Standard eTA' for single entry ($30)
Fill in the application form with your travel details
Upload a passport photo (JPEG, 500x500px)
Upload your passport bio page scan
Upload return or onward ticket
Upload hotel booking or invitation letter
Pay $30 via credit card
Wait 2-5 business days for approval
Download eTA approval to show at immigration
Requirements
E-Visa Documents
- Valid UAE passport (6+ months validity beyond entry)
- Passport-size photo (digital, white background)
- Scanned passport bio page
- Return or onward flight ticket
- Proof of accommodation (hotel booking, safari itinerary, or invitation)
- Credit card for payment
Passport Requirements
- Validity: At least 6 months beyond entry date
- Blank Pages: At least 2 blank pages
- Condition: Good condition, no damage
East Africa Tourist Visa
Visiting multiple East African countries? The East Africa Tourist Visa might be a better option.
Cost
$
Validity
days
Entries
Multiple
Countries
Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda
When to choose: If visiting 2+ of Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda on same trip (when available)
At Immigration
What to Present
- •Passport
- •Printed or digital eTA approval
- •Return flight ticket
- •Accommodation details (may be asked)
Tips
- •Have documents easily accessible
- •Know your hotel/lodge name
- •Be polite and patient
- •Digital eTA on phone is usually accepted, but print backup recommended
Typical processing time: 10-20 minutes with eTA
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not applying for eTA before travel (visa on arrival no longer available)
- Applying too late (eTA can take up to 5 days)
- Using unofficial websites (scams exist)
- Passport validity less than 6 months
- Wrong photo specifications
Frequently Asked Questions
Do UAE citizens need a visa for Kenya?
UAE citizens need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). The Standard eTA costs $30 and is valid for 90 days.
How much is Kenya eTA for UAE citizens?
The Standard eTA is $30 for a single entry. A one-year multi-entry eTA costs $300.
Can UAE citizens get Kenya visa on arrival?
No. Kenya no longer offers visa on arrival. All visitors must apply for eTA online before travel at etakenya.go.ke.
How long can UAE citizens stay in Kenya?
The Standard eTA allows 90 days. This can be extended at immigration in Nairobi.
How long does Kenya eTA take to process?
Usually 2-3 business days, but can take up to 5 days. Apply at least a week ahead.
Visa Requirements for UAE Citizens in Other Countries
Planning a multi-country trip? Check the requirements for your other destinations.