NAIROBI, Kenya — The Government of Kenya has issued a fresh security advisory for its citizens in the Middle East, urging vigilance and adherence to local safety guidance as hostilities escalate following recent US and Israeli military strikes on Iran and Iran’s subsequent counter‑attacks.
On Sunday, Musalia Mudavadi, Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, warned of heightened risks to Kenyan travellers and residents across multiple Gulf and Levant countries.
The advisory comes amid unfolding conflict that has disrupted airspace, provoked missile exchanges and destabilised regional security environments.
Mudavadi urged Kenyans living in or travelling through Iran, Israel, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Bahrain, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Jordan and Iraq to “remain vigilant and prioritise their safety,” and to follow official security information issued by host governments.
“All Kenyan citizens in Iran, Israel, Qatar, UAE, Bahrain, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Iraq and surrounding areas are advised to remain alert and monitor official communication from host governments regarding travel and safety updates,” Mudavadi said.
Safety guidance for nationals abroad
In his statement, the Cabinet Secretary outlined precautionary measures for Kenyan nationals, emphasising personal responsibility and situational awareness amid conflict‑driven uncertainty.
Mudavadi advised citizens to “exercise extreme caution and avoid non‑essential movement, especially near high‑risk areas such as military facilities and crowded public spaces.”
He also highlighted the potential for flight disruptions and airspace closures, urging travellers to plan accordingly and verify travel arrangements with airlines.
To ensure timely support and communication, the government has also called on Kenyans who have not yet registered with the nearest Kenyan embassy or consulate in the region to do so immediately.
Registration will “enable timely updates from the Missions and assistance during emergencies,” Mudavadi said.
Coordinated Government Response
The advisory was reinforced by Roseline Njogu, Principal Secretary for Diaspora Affairs, who reiterated the need for immediate registration with Kenyan diplomatic missions, limiting movement and avoiding unverified information that could lead to confusion or panic.
The government said it “continues to assess the situation” closely, maintaining communication with Kenyan missions in key Middle Eastern capitals to support citizens and provide updated guidance through official channels.
Gulf tensions and travel disruption
The security alert follows a series of coordinated strikes by the United States and Israel on Iranian territory, including reported attacks on strategic military and infrastructure sites.
Iran responded with missile and drone attacks across the region, targeting Israeli cities and US bases in the Gulf, prompting temporary airspace closures and flight rerouting by international carriers.
Regional governments, including the UAE, Qatar and Saudi Arabia, have implemented precautionary measures affecting aviation and public gatherings as they monitor the security situation.
Disruptions to the Gulf’s aviation corridors have forced airlines to adjust schedules, affecting passenger travel between East Africa and the Middle East.
Observers say the volatility has heightened risks for expatriate communities and travellers alike, making clear, official guidance essential for foreign nationals in the region.
Economic and diaspora ties
Kenya’s growing diplomatic and economic ties with Gulf states mean a significant number of Kenyan citizens live, work and travel across the region.
Many are employed in sectors such as aviation, hospitality, domestic services, construction and retail in cities such as Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Doha, which also serve as major global travel hubs.
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The diaspora’s size and integration into regional labour markets underscore the importance of timely advisories and consular support during periods of instability.
Kenyan authorities continue to monitor developments in the Middle East closely and have reiterated their commitment to safeguarding citizens abroad.
Travellers are encouraged to stay informed through official government platforms, Kenyan missions, and host nation advisories, and to prioritise personal safety amid shifting security dynamics.
Travel alerts and embassy updates are expected to remain in place as the situation evolves, with further guidance to be communicated through official channels.
