The beating heart of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Dubai, has fast become one of the top destinations for Kenyans and foreign expats, thanks to ultra-modern infrastructure, tropical climate, and ample job opportunities with zero income tax.

Dubai has become an integral hub in the world’s global trade network. The city’s culture is primarily influenced by both the abundant expat community and its Islamic monarchy under Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. Dubai is one of the 7 states together with Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al-Qaiwain, Ras Al-Khaimah, and Fujairah that make up the UAE.

Kenya and UAE enjoy a warm, bi-lateral trade relationship that is founded in a shared history and deep cultural ties. In addition to the UAE being the main supplier of oil to Kenya under the Government-to-Government oil deal between Kenya and the gulf states, it’s also a major shopping destination for Kenyans looking to buy household and office electronic appliances, motor vehicles, and automobile spare parts.

If you’re moving to Dubai from Kenya, whether for work, education, or adventure, you’ll be in good company. Around 50,000 Kenyans already live and work in the UAE, with Dubai hosting most of them. While Dubai is relatively liberal compared to other parts of the Middle East, expats should be prepared for some level of culture shock with respect to local customs involving public behavior, dress code, alcohol regulations, and laws around extramarital relations.

Below, we highlight key aspects of relocating to Dubai from Kenya you should know to ensure a smooth transition. 

1. Understanding the Visa Process for Dubai

Depending on the purpose of your move to Dubai, such as tourism, work, or education, there are different types of visas, application requirements, and residency permits. The various types of UAE residence visas include student visa, work visa, family visa, domestic worker visa, investment visa, and retirement visa.

A UAE student visa is required for students, which is granted by the General Directorate of Residency and Foreign Affairs (GDRFA).

Obtaining a work visa is much more complicated. It involves obtaining an employment entry permit, medical screening, applying for an Emirates ID, and obtaining a residency visa and a work visa.

The most direct way to get a Residence Visa is when a company sponsors you. The company will apply for and cover the costs of your Residence Visa while you are in Dubai.

Pro tip: Ensure you know the procedure for renewing your visa to ensure legal compliance.

2. Importing Household Goods and Personal Effects to Dubai

The Government of Dubai allows tax-free importation of household goods and personal effects for personal use (not intended for sale or leasing later) subject to inspections by Customs officers. 

You will be required to present the following documents:

• Passport or Emirates ID copy
• Residency visa copy
• A list of imported goods

In case inspectors find your goods are brand new and in commercial quantities, a 5% Customs duty shall be levied.

3. Importing New or Used Motor Vehicles to Dubai

You can move your new or used car to Dubai from Kenya as per import regulations. If you import the car via a shipping company, the following documents will be required:

• Passport or Emirates ID copy
• Copy of purchase invoice
• Certificate of origin
• Proof of ownership
• Insurance policy
• Residence permit
• Packing list
• Bill of lading

Copies of your passport and purchase invoice will be required if you import the car via a private person. The imported vehicle will be evaluated by the Customs Valuation Department and inspected by Customs officers, upon which Customs duty shall be levied at 5% of its value.​​​​​​

4. Customs Prohibitions and Restrictions

UAE Customs sets restrictions on print material and multimedia assets such as tapes, pictures, videos, movies, and films which may be censored or confiscated. You must pack these items separately and clearly mark them for easy identification.

Customs may deem any religious, political, or immoral content offensive and ban it.

You must also pack medication and foodstuff separately and await inspection and special approval by the Ministry of Health.

Generally, when moving to Dubai from Kenya, avoid importing the following items:

• Inflammable goods and products
• Narcotics
• Firearms and ammunition
• Alcohol and Tobacco
• Foodstuffs and perishables
• Plants and plant materials
• Offensive literature
• False and counterfeit money

5. Relocating with Your Pets to Dubai

When moving with your pets to Dubai, you must obtain an import permit for each animal and prove they’re at least 4 months old and vaccinated. 

Other key requirements include:

• Valid rabies vaccine given within one year
• If only one vaccine has been given this should be done more than 30 days prior to arrival
• Microchip identification
• Cargo entry (excess or accompanied baggage not allowed)
• Health certificate issued by Kenya within 10 days of travel

The UAE prohibits certain breeds from entering the country because they’re considered dangerous. They include the Pit Bull, American Staffordshire Terrier, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, the American Bulldog and crosses between them, and many more.

6. You Must be Physically Present in Dubai for Customs Clearance

All shipments to Dubai are physically checked and verified, with extensive inspections incurring additional charges. To facilitate customs clearance, you must be physically present to provide all the necessary documentation.

7. Sea Freight to Dubai Typically Takes 15-35 Days

Sea shipping from Kenya to Dubai typically takes 15–35 days via Mombasa port to Jebel Ali. It is a cost-effective option for a large shipment of household goods and personal effects, with services available for Full Container Load (FCL) and Less than Container Load (LCL).

Best Movers to Dubai: Nellions Moving and Relocations Company

Moving to Dubai from Kenya can be a daunting process, especially considering the strict conditions for obtaining approvals for importing belongings, motor vehicles, and pets. 

With the professional support and guidance of international moving companies like Nellions, individuals and families can experience a smooth moving process.

Get your free moving quote today. 

Contact us on +254700000002 or email move@nellions.co.ke