Kenyan Workers in UAE Face Job Losses as Hospitality Sector Slows
Kenyan authorities have confirmed that a growing number of citizens working in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have lost their jobs, with the hospitality sector experiencing the largest impact.
The Kenyan Embassy in Abu Dhabi says dozens of affected workers are now struggling to meet basic needs after losing their source of income. In response, Ambassador Kennedy Nganga, working with leaders from the Kenyan diaspora, distributed emergency food and household supplies to affected nationals on 4 June.
According to the embassy, the assistance was intended to provide immediate support as unemployed workers seek new opportunities. In a statement, the embassy said the initiative reflected the cooperation between Kenyan diplomatic officials and the diaspora community in supporting citizens facing hardship abroad.
The hospitality industry, which employs many Kenyans in positions such as hotel management, catering and housekeeping, has been particularly affected by the slowdown. Over the past year, several companies in Abu Dhabi and Dubai have reduced staff numbers and cut working hours, leaving many foreign workers without stable employment.
Although the embassy has not released the exact number of Kenyans affected, demand for assistance has increased. Industry analysts say the changes reflect a shift in hiring practices rather than a complete decline in business activity.
James Randall, Middle East sales director at HireRight, told Gulf Business that companies remain focused on growth but are recruiting with greater caution and precision. However, the change has reduced employment opportunities for many expatriate workers, including Kenyans.
The job losses come as the government monitors broader developments across the Gulf region. Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi recently stated that more than 500,000 Kenyans live and work across Gulf countries. Earlier this year, the government advised citizens to consider returning home as tensions linked to the Iran-Israel conflict created uncertainty in the region.
