Key Highlights:

• Kenyan nationals must obtain prearranged entry visas before traveling to the UAE; there is no visa-on-arrival eligibility.
• Real estate investors qualifying with AED 2 million+ property receive a 10-year renewable Golden Visa through Dubai/Abu Dhabi authorities; the federal portal lists 5-year, but emirate-level applications provide 10-year visas.
• Skilled professionals need a basic monthly salary of AED 30,000 (excluding allowances), verified through 6-month bank statements and a 2-year employment history.
• Golden Visa holders sponsor family with no age restrictions—sons, unmarried daughters, spouses, parents, and unlimited domestic helpers for the same visa duration. 

The UAE Golden Visa has emerged as one of the most sought-after long-term residency programs globally, offering foreign nationals the opportunity to live, work, and study in the United Arab Emirates without a national sponsor. 

For Kenyan residents seeking to establish themselves in one of the world’s most dynamic economies, understanding the application process and eligibility requirements is essential. 

This comprehensive guide outlines everything Kenyan nationals need to know about securing a UAE Golden Visa in 2026. Keep reading to learn more. 

Disclaimer: The information in this article is for general guidance only. UAE Golden Visa regulations may change without notice. For personalized advice regarding your specific situation, please consult with JSB Incorporation’s experts or contact relevant UAE government authorities directly.

Key Features of the UAE Golden Visa

The program offers several distinctive advantages that make it particularly attractive to professionals, investors, and entrepreneurs worldwide:​

Duration and Renewal: The visa duration ranges from 5 to 10 years depending on the eligibility category, with automatic renewal upon meeting the same qualifying conditions. The visa holders enjoy complete independence from local sponsors, eliminating the traditional requirement for an Emirati citizen or company to guarantee their residency.​

Flexible Residency Rules: One of the most significant benefits is the absence of strict re-entry requirements. Unlike standard UAE residence permits that become void if the holder stays outside the country for more than six months, the Golden Visa remains valid regardless of time spent abroad, provided it hasn’t expired. This flexibility is particularly valuable for international business professionals and investors who maintain interests across multiple countries.​

Comprehensive Family Sponsorship: Golden Visa holders can sponsor their spouse, children (with no age restrictions—sons of any age and unmarried daughters), and parents for the same visa duration as the primary holder. 

This represents a substantial advantage over standard UAE residence visas, which restrict son sponsorship to age 25. According to Federal Decree-Law No. 9 of 2022, holders can also sponsor an unlimited number of domestic helpers.​​

Family Security: Family members retain their residency status until their permits expire even if the primary Golden Visa holder passes away, offering long-term security for dependents.​

Important Note for Kenyan Nationals

Before pursuing a Golden Visa, Kenyan citizens must understand a critical entry requirement: Kenya is not on the UAE’s visa-on-arrival list. This means Kenyan nationals must obtain a prearranged visa before traveling to the UAE. 

The Golden Visa application process accommodates this through a two-stage approach for applicants outside the UAE, which will be detailed in the application process section.​

Eligibility Categories for Kenyan Applicants

The UAE Golden Visa program encompasses ten distinct categories, each with specific requirements verified by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) and other official UAE authorities.

1. Investors in Public Investments (10-Year Visa)

Investment-based Golden Visas offer three pathways for qualification:​

Pathway One: Investment Fund Deposit – Maintain a minimum AED 2 million deposit in a UAE-approved investment fund. The investment must represent complete ownership with no loan financing. A letter from the approved investment fund confirming the deposit is required for the application.​

Pathway Two: Business Capital Investment – Hold partnership or ownership in a UAE company with a minimum capital share of AED 2 million in non-borrowed funds. The Federal Tax Authority or relevant emirate authority must verify this investment.​

Pathway Three: Tax Contribution – Own a company that pays a minimum of AED 250,000 annually in taxes to the UAE government. A letter from the Federal Tax Authority confirming this tax payment is mandatory.​

For all investment pathways, the capital must be fully paid and cannot be sourced through loans, ensuring genuine economic contribution to the UAE.​

2. Real Estate Investors

Property investment represents one of the most accessible Golden Visa pathways for Kenyan residents. The minimum property value required is AED 2 million, which can be achieved through one property or multiple properties combined under the applicant’s name.​

Visa Duration Clarification: The official u.ae federal portal states real estate investors receive a 5-year visa. However, when applying through emirate specific channels, the visa duration is 10 years. 

The Dubai Land Department explicitly confirms that property investors meeting the AED 2 million threshold receive a 10-year renewable Golden Visa. Abu Dhabi follows the same 10-year structure. This means:​

• Federal portal application: 5-year visa
• Dubai Land Department application: 10-year visa
• Abu Dhabi Residents Office application: 10-year visa

Most property investors apply through the Dubai Land Department or Abu Dhabi authorities and therefore receive the 10-year visa.​

Mortgaged properties are accepted, provided the applicant submits a bank No Objection Certificate (NOC) showing that at least AED 2 million has been paid toward the property. Off-plan properties from approved local developers are also eligible, offering flexibility for investors who prefer new developments.​​

Crucially, the property must be retained throughout the Golden Visa validity period. Applications for Dubai properties are processed through the Dubai Land Department, while properties in other emirates require applications through the relevant emirate land authority.​​

3. Entrepreneurs (5-Year Visa)

Kenyan entrepreneurs with innovative business projects can qualify through a pioneering business venture worth a minimum of AED 500,000. The project must be of a technical or future nature based on innovation and risk, meeting UAE standards for entrepreneurial activity.​​

Required approvals include certification from a UAE-licensed auditor, approval from relevant emirate authorities, and endorsement from an accredited business incubator. In Dubai, entrepreneurs apply through AREA 2071, while Abu Dhabi applications are processed through HUB71.​​

These business incubators not only provide the necessary endorsement letters but also offer comprehensive support, including subsidized office space, networking opportunities, and access to investors. HUB71 has been specifically selected to endorse global tech entrepreneurs for the Golden Visa program.​

4. Executive Directors (10-Year Visa)

Senior executives qualify with a minimum monthly salary of AED 50,000. This category specifically targets top-level management positions and requires a certified university degree, a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience, a valid work contract, and valid health insurance for at least one year.​​

The AED 50,000 salary threshold is specifically for the Executive Directors category and differs from the requirements for skilled professionals.​​

5. Skilled Professionals/Specialists (10-Year Visa)

This category targets highly skilled professionals across various sectors with more accessible salary requirements. The minimum monthly salary is AED 30,000 basic salary (excluding allowances), making it attainable for senior professionals in fields such as engineering, medicine, technology, education, and law.​​

Important Salary Clarification: As of 2024-2025, the AED 30,000 requirement refers strictly to basic salary and does not include housing allowances, transportation allowances, or other benefits. This represents a policy change from earlier interpretations that allowed total compensation packages to meet the threshold.​

Key requirements include classification as Level 1 (Managers and Business Executives) or Level 2 (Professionals in Sciences, Engineering, Health, Education, Business and Management, Information Technology, Law, Sociology, and Culture) under MOHRE’s occupational classification scheme. 

The applicant must hold an attested bachelor’s degree or equivalent, possess a valid practicing license if required for their profession (such as doctors, pharmacists, or teachers), and provide a 6-month bank statement showing consistent salary deposits of at least AED 30,000.​​

6. Doctors and Scientists (10-Year Visa)

Medical professionals require a valid UAE Ministry of Health or relevant health authority license to practice. 

Scientists must obtain either a recommendation from the Emirates Scientists Council or recognition through the Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Award for Academic Excellence. Both categories require a valid passport with at least 6 months validity and comprehensive health insurance.​​

The Emirates Scientists Council serves as the primary nominating authority for researchers and academics in priority fields, including engineering, technology, natural sciences, and life sciences.​

7. Outstanding Students

The Golden Visa program recognizes academic excellence through three student categories:​​

High School Students (5-Year Visa) – National-level toppers with a minimum 95% grade qualify with a recommendation letter from the Ministry of Education (Emirates Schools Establishment). These students can sponsor their parents and siblings, providing an exceptional opportunity for young achievers.​​

University Students (10-Year Visa) – Current students at UAE-accredited universities with a minimum GPA of 3.8 qualify if graduation occurred within the last 2 years. This category enables talented graduates to transition smoothly from education to professional life in the UAE while maintaining the ability to sponsor parents and siblings.​​

Foreign University Graduates (10-Year Visa) – Graduates from universities ranked in the top 100 globally (according to UAE Ministry of Education classification) with a minimum GPA of 3.5 qualify if graduation was within the last 2 years. An equivalency certificate from the UAE Ministry of Education is mandatory for foreign degrees, ensuring international qualifications meet UAE standards.​​

8. PhD Holders & Engineering/Science Specialists (10-Year Visa)

Doctoral degree holders in priority disciplines qualify for the Golden Visa. 

The PhD must be certified by the UAE Ministry of Education in fields such as epidemiology, virology, artificial intelligence, big data, computer engineering, electronics, software engineering, electrical engineering, genetics, and biotechnology. 

Applicants must also hold a work contract in their relevant specialization, demonstrating active contribution to UAE research and development priorities.​​

9. Humanitarian Pioneers (10-Year Visa)

This category recognizes exceptional contributions to humanitarian work through three pathways: distinguished membership in international or regional humanitarian organizations, recipients of appreciation awards in humanitarian fields, or volunteers with over 500 hours of documented voluntary work. This reflects the UAE’s commitment to social responsibility and community service.​

10. Frontline Heroes

Healthcare workers and other professionals who demonstrated extraordinary effort during crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic qualify with a recommendation from the competent authority. This category includes nurses, medical assistants, laboratory technicians, pharmacologists, and other frontline cadres approved by the Frontline Heroes Office.​

Also Read: 20 Dubai Real Estate Trends for Golden Visa Investors in 2026

Document Requirements for Kenyan Applicants

Understanding the documentation requirements is crucial for a successful application. 

All applicants must provide a valid passport with a minimum of 6 months validity, passport-sized photographs meeting ICP specifications, valid health insurance for a minimum of one year (renewable throughout the residency period), and proof of accommodation in the UAE through property ownership documents or a rental contract.​​

1. Document Attestation Process for Kenyan Citizens

This is the most critical aspect for Kenyan applicants, as all foreign documents must undergo proper attestation before submission to UAE authorities. The attestation process for Kenyan documents follows a specific sequence:​

Step 1: Notarization and Verification – Documents must first be notarized and verified at the appropriate governing bodies in Kenya.​

Step 2: Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Kenya) – The Kenyan Ministry of Foreign Affairs must attest the documents.​

Step 3: UAE Embassy in Kenya – Documents proceed to the UAE Embassy in Nairobi for embassy attestation.​

Step 4: UAE MOFA Attestation – Final attestation by the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs completes the process.​

VFS Global Services in Kenya: VFS Global handles UAE attestation services in Kenya through their Nairobi location, providing 24/7 online services with processing times of 0-3 business days for routine attestations. According to recent updates, the UAE Embassy in Nairobi no longer accepts walk-in submissions, and all attestation services must be processed through VFS Global. 

Applicants submit original documents and passport copies to VFS Global’s office along Waiyaki Way in Westlands, Nairobi. Upon completion, attested documents are delivered to applicants via email in digital format, with the option to collect physical original documents from VFS Global.​​​

2. Category-Specific Documents

For Real Estate Investors – Passport copy, e-Certificate of Title or Title deed from Dubai Land Department (or relevant emirate authority), personal photo meeting ICP specifications, UAE ID if currently held, current residence permit copy if applicable, and bank NOC for mortgaged properties showing AED 2 million paid amount.​​

For Skilled Professionals – Employment contract approved in the UAE, attested bachelor’s degree with UAE Ministry of Education equivalency if obtained abroad, salary certificate from the employer, 6-month bank statement showing AED 30,000 monthly basic salary deposits, and valid practicing license if applicable to the profession.​​

For Students with Foreign Degrees – The UAE Ministry of Education equivalency certificate is mandatory. The equivalency process involves degree verification through DataFlow (one of the Ministry’s approved verification partners), embassy verification, and original diploma or graduation certificate with transcripts. Processing can take up to 30 days, so early application is recommended.​​

Application Process: Step-by-Step Guide

The application process differs slightly depending on whether the applicant is already in the UAE or applying from Kenya.

1. For Kenyan Applicants Outside the UAE

Step 1: Verify Eligibility – Access the ICP portal at icp.gov.ae to confirm qualification under one of the ten Golden Visa categories. The portal provides detailed requirements and allows preliminary eligibility assessment.​​

Step 2: Complete Document Attestation – Begin the attestation process through VFS Global Kenya well in advance of the visa application. Given the multi-stage attestation requirement, starting this process early prevents delays.​​

Step 3: Submit Application Through ICP Smart Services – Create an account on the ICP Smart Services portal using UAE Pass or username credentials. The ICP UAE Smart application is available on the Apple App Store, Huawei App Gallery, and Google Play, enabling applications 24/7 from anywhere. 

Complete the digital application form with all required data, upload attested documents in the specified formats, and pay service fees electronically through e-Dirham or Amwal Payment systems integrated into the platform.​

Step 4: Receive 6-Month Entry Permit – Upon approval, successful applicants receive a 6-month entry permit. This permit allows legal entry into the UAE to complete the final steps of the Golden Visa process.​​

Step 5: Travel to the UAE for Medical Examination and Biometrics – Schedule travel to the UAE within the 6-month validity period of the entry permit. This step cannot be completed remotely, as it requires physical presence.​​

Step 6: Complete Medical Fitness Test – All applicants aged 18 and above must undergo medical examinations at UAE Ministry of Health-approved centers. Processing typically takes 48 hours after document submission.​

Step 7: Emirates ID Registration and Biometrics – Visit an ICP-authorized Emirates ID center to provide biometric data, including fingerprints, facial scans, and iris recognition. The Emirates ID serves as the official national identification document and is mandatory for accessing government services, banking, healthcare, and property transactions.​

Step 8: Receive Golden Visa and Emirates ID – After successful completion of all steps, the Golden Visa and Emirates ID are issued. The visa is delivered electronically via email, and the Emirates ID card is either collected at the service center or delivered to the registered address. Total processing time from medical clearance to final issuance ranges from 3 to 5 working days.​

2. For Dubai-Based Applicants

Kenyan residents already living in Dubai can apply through GDRFA Dubai Smart Services or Amer Service Centers. 

Property investors specifically should apply through one of the accredited centers: Al Tarash, Gulf Vision, Golden Cube (DLD Cube), Al Yalayis, or AGS H. 

These centers provide integrated customer service, reducing visits from 15 separate appointments to a single location where applicants can submit applications, complete medical tests, obtain health insurance, and process Emirates ID applications.​​

3. Costs and Fees

Understanding the financial requirements is essential for budget planning. For a 10-year Golden Visa as a real estate investor in Dubai:​

Medical examination: AED 700; Emirates ID (10 years): AED 1,153; Residence permit confirmation (10 years): AED 2,856.75; Dubai Land Department fees: AED 4,020; Administrative fees: AED 1,155.

Total for Primary Applicant: AED 9,884.75​

Each family dependent costs AED 5,774.50 for a 10-year residency permit. Opening a family file requires AED 318.75, and each additional person beyond the first dependent adds AED 100. For a family of four (spouse and two children), the total sponsorship cost would be approximately AED 17,642.25 plus the primary visa holder’s fees.​​

For most categories, the basic application fee is AED 100, with smart service fees adding another AED 100. The 10-year Golden residency issuance costs AED 1,000. Skilled professionals and other employment-based categories should budget approximately AED 5,000-15,000 total depending on specific requirements and whether family members are included.​

4. Processing Timeline

Processing times vary by category and application channel. For real estate investor visas through the Dubai Land Department, expect 7-10 business days. 

For applications through the ICP portal, the overall timeline from submission to final approval typically ranges from 30-60 days, though this can be shorter for straightforward cases with complete documentation. 

Medical examination results are usually available within 48 hours, and Emirates ID issuance takes 3-5 working days after medical clearance.​​

Family Sponsorship Under UAE Golden Visa

One of the most attractive features of the Golden Visa is the comprehensive family sponsorship provision.

1. Who Can Be Sponsored

Golden Visa holders can sponsor their spouse (husband or wife), children (sons of any age and unmarried daughters of any age), parents, and unlimited domestic helpers. This represents a significant advantage over standard UAE residence visas, which restrict son sponsorship to age 25 and apply marital status restrictions to daughters.​​

Family members receive the same visa duration as the primary Golden Visa holder. For example, if the sponsor holds a 10-year Golden Visa, dependents also receive 10-year residence permits.​

2. Required Documents for Family Sponsorship

For Spouse and Children – Attested and Arabic-translated marriage certificate, undertaking for unmarried children over 18 years, original sponsor Emirates ID and passport, personal photos meeting ICP requirements, health insurance for each dependent, attested birth certificates, and proof of financial capability.​​

For Parents – Proof of relationship through an attested birth certificate, a dependency certificate from the Kenyan consulate (attested through the same VFS Global process), and valid health insurance.​​

Family sponsorship is processed through ICP Smart Services (nationwide) or GDRFA Dubai (for Dubai residents). Each dependent requires an entry permit application with uploaded documents and paid fees. If dependents are already in the UAE, their status can be converted locally before proceeding with medical tests and Emirates ID.​

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Incomplete or Unattested Documents – This is the most frequent cause of delays or rejections. Ensure all documents undergo the complete attestation process through VFS Global Kenya and UAE MOFA before submission.​​
• Salary Not Matching Bank Statement Deposits – For skilled professionals, the bank statement must clearly show deposits of exactly AED 30,000 or more as basic salary for six consecutive months. Discrepancies between salary certificates and actual deposits lead to immediate rejection.​​
• Confusing Basic Salary with Total Compensation – The AED 30,000 requirement for skilled professionals refers strictly to basic salary, excluding allowances. Ensure employment contracts and bank statements clearly distinguish basic salary from other compensation.​
• Wrong Eligibility Category Selection – Carefully review the specific requirements for each category. For example, the AED 50,000 salary applies only to Executive Directors, not skilled professionals.​​
• Missing Ministry of Education Equivalency Certificate for Foreign Degrees – Any degree obtained outside the UAE requires an equivalency certificate from the UAE Ministry of Education. Submitting applications without this mandatory document results in rejection.​​
• Investment Using Borrowed Funds – For investor categories, the capital must be fully owned and cannot be sourced through loans. Bank financing for real estate is acceptable, but the paid amount must reach AED 2 million and be verified through bank NOC.​​
• Insufficient Time with Current Employer – Skilled professionals must have completed a minimum of 2 years with their current UAE employer. Applications submitted before this requirement is met will be denied.​​

Also Read: Golden Visa Myths Busted: JSB Founder on Talk 100.3

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can Kenyan citizens apply from outside the UAE?

Yes, Kenyan nationals can apply through the ICP portal from Kenya. Upon approval, a 6-month entry permit is issued, after which applicants must travel to the UAE to complete medical examinations, biometric registration, and Emirates ID processing.​​

2. What is the minimum property investment required?

The minimum property investment is AED 2 million, which can be one property or multiple properties combined under the applicant’s name. The property must be located in the UAE.​​

3. Are mortgaged properties eligible for a Golden Visa?

Yes, mortgaged properties are accepted provided the applicant submits a bank No Objection Certificate (NOC) showing that at least AED 2 million has been paid toward the property. The bank must be a UAE-approved financial institution.​​

4. Do property investors get 5-year or 10-year Golden Visas?

The federal u.ae portal states 5 years for real estate investors. However, applications through the Dubai Land Department or Abu Dhabi authorities result in 10-year Golden Visas for properties valued at AED 2 million or more. Most investors apply through emirate-specific channels and receive 10-year visas.​

5. Can Golden Visa holders stay outside the UAE indefinitely?

Golden Visa holders are exempt from the standard 180-day residency rule that applies to regular UAE residence permits. The visa only becomes void if it expires while the holder is outside the country, but there is no restriction on the length of time spent abroad during the visa’s validity period.​​

6. What salary qualifies for the skilled professionals category?

The minimum basic salary is AED 30,000 per month, excluding allowances. This is different from the AED 50,000 requirement for Executive Directors. Bank statements for the past six months must confirm consistent deposits of at least AED 30,000 as basic salary.​​

7. Is health insurance mandatory for Golden Visa applicants?

Yes, valid health insurance is mandatory for a minimum of one year and must be maintained throughout the residency period. The insurance must provide comprehensive coverage meeting UAE health authority standards.​​

8. How long does document attestation take through VFS Global Kenya?

VFS Global Kenya offers 24/7 online services with processing times of 0-3 business days for routine attestations. However, the complete attestation chain (Kenyan authorities → UAE Embassy → UAE MOFA) may take 1-2 weeks depending on document complexity.​​​

9. Can I sponsor my elderly parents under the Golden Visa?

Yes, Golden Visa holders can sponsor their parents regardless of age. Required documents include proof of relationship (attested birth certificate), a dependency certificate from the Kenyan consulate, and valid health insurance.​​

10. Can I sponsor adult children over 25 years old?

Yes, Golden Visa holders can sponsor sons of any age and unmarried daughters of any age. This represents a major advantage over standard UAE residence visas, which restrict son sponsorship to age 25. Family members receive the same visa duration as the primary Golden Visa holder.​

The Final Chapter 

The UAE Golden Visa represents an exceptional opportunity for Kenyan residents to establish long-term residency. Whether through real estate investment, professional expertise, entrepreneurial ventures, or academic excellence, multiple pathways exist for qualifying applicants.

For Kenyan applicants, the key to success lies in early preparation for document attestation, realistic assessment of eligibility under the appropriate category, and professional guidance when navigating complex requirements such as Ministry of Education equivalency certificates or business incubator endorsements. 

With proper planning and attention to detail, the UAE Golden Visa opens doors to unprecedented opportunities in the Emirates.

Book your free consultation call today with the experts of JSB Incorporation to learn more about securing your Golden visa from Kenya.