Kenya and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) are set to enhance their labour relations in a move aimed at unlocking more job opportunities for Kenyan workers. Particularly in strategic sectors of the UAE economy
High-Level Labour Dialogue
This follows a high-level meeting held today between Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for Labour and Social Protection, Hon. Dr. Alfred N. Mutua, and the UAE Ambassador to Kenya, H.E. Dr. Salim Ibrahim Alnaqbi, at the Ministry’s headquarters in Nairobi.
Renewed Focus on Ethical Recruitment and Skills Recognition
The discussions focused on strengthening the 2018 Labour Cooperation Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). With a renewed commitment to ethical recruitment, skills recognition, and expanded opportunities beyond traditional roles such as domestic work.
Key areas of cooperation include increasing Kenyan participation in the UAE’s aviation, hospitality, health, and service industries; enhancing information sharing on labour laws and demand trends; and conducting regular networking forums between employers and licensed recruitment agencies in both countries.
“This partnership is not just about securing jobs. It’s about transforming lives, empowering families, and contributing to Kenya’s economic development through safe, legal, and productive labour migration,” said Dr. Mutua.
The two nations also explored broader areas of collaboration, including youth empowerment through cross-cultural programs like Youth Circles, technical partnerships in labour governance, and the renewal of educational agreements, particularly the lapsed 2010 MoU on higher education.
“These collaborative efforts will open up more overseas employment avenues for Kenyans, equip them with globally recognized skills, and contribute meaningfully to Kenya’s economic transformation.” he added
Operational Frameworks and Worker Protection
To ensure transparency and worker protection, Dr. Mutua emphasized the finalization of operational frameworks such as improved verification systems, licensing protocols, and the establishment of a UAE-Kenya labour liaison mechanism.
Kenyans seeking employment in the UAE have been urged to verify recruitment agencies via the National Employment Authority (NEA) website. Also to report any suspicious practices through the Ministry’s toll-free number: 0800 221 111.
The meeting builds on progress made during the 4th Joint Commission for Cooperation held virtually in August 2024. However, it’s seen as a milestone in deepening Kenya’s strategic labour engagement with Gulf countries.