Some Kenyan passport holders seeking to travel to Dubai have complained of a wave of visa denials, particularly affecting applicants under the age of 40.
The affected applicants say the United Arab Emirates has recently started turning down most 30 and 60-day visa applications from Kenyan passport holders, with the trend beginning around a week ago and primarily affecting short-term visit requests.
While most applicants have not been given clear reasons for the rejections, those above the age of 40 decry that their visas applications were declined without issue.
There has been no official communication from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) explaining why visit visa applications from Kenya are being rejected.
Dubai Visa Rejection Hits Kenyans Under 40
Bonfire Adventures Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Simon Kabu announced on Monday that the ongoing issue regarding visa rejections remains unresolved.
“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,” he posted.
Kenyan Facebook user Pinkelle Valentine took to her social media to alert fellow Kenyans about the growing number of Dubai visa rejections.
“Just a heads-up: Dubai started rejecting most Kenyan visa applications (both 30- and 60-day) around two days ago. Currently, about 90% are being denied. If you haven’t applied yet, it’s better to pause,” she posted.
Also Read: US Resumes Visa Applications for Foreign Students Under New Guidelines
On her part Judy, a Dubai-based agent from Yuvinalis Travels, noted that pressure is mounting on agents as they struggle to explain to clients why their visa applications were rejected.
“With the numerous visa rejections, clients feel betrayed by us, but that is not the case. It is not our fault. As I have always said, we, as agents, do not approve visas; our role is simply to apply. We complete the visa applications, ensure that all details, including names, are accurate, and then submit them to immigration for processing,” Judy explained in a video.
Also Read: UK Visa Agency Announces Application Changes for Kenyan Applicants
What Is the UAE Visit Visa?
The tourist visa is a short-term visa issued to Kenyans and foreign nationals that allows them to visit and enjoy their holidays within the borders of the UAE.
The tourist visa is valid for 30 days, 60 days, or 90 days, depending on the one you apply for.
Besides tourism purposes, this visa can also serve as a visit visa for Kenyans who wish to visit their family and friends in the UAE or those who wish to attend business meetings.
Applicants must state the main purpose for visiting and how long your engagement will take.
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