Kenyans in UAE Lead in Calls to Government Hotlines Amid Middle East Tensions

Kenyans living in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have accounted for one of the largest groups contacting government hotlines for assistance and guidance as tensions escalate across the Middle East, Diaspora Affairs Principal Secretary Roseline Njogu has revealed.

Speaking in an interview with NTV on Monday, Njogu said that as of Sunday, the State Department for Diaspora Affairs had received about 330 calls from Kenyan nationals across the region, with the majority of those calls coming from the UAE and Bahrain.

She noted that many of those reaching out were seeking reassurance on their safety, updates on the evolving situation, and guidance on how to remain in contact with Kenyan authorities. Families back home have also been calling to confirm the wellbeing of their loved ones living and working abroad.

The surge in inquiries follows rising hostilities in parts of the Middle East, which have sparked travel disruptions and heightened safety concerns for foreign nationals residing in the Gulf region.

Njogu said the government is closely monitoring developments and has activated contingency plans to support Kenyans if necessary. However, she clarified that there are currently no plans for a mass evacuation.

She urged Kenyans in affected countries to remain calm, limit non-essential movement, follow directives issued by local authorities, and register with the nearest Kenyan embassy or consulate to facilitate assistance if needed.