The Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) hosted its annual tourism trade roadshow in Nairobi, bringing together more than 130 travel agents, tour operators, airlines and tourism stakeholders to strengthen partnerships with Kenya’s travel industry and showcase new experiences available to visitors travelling to Dubai.
The event forms part of DET’s ongoing engagement with one of East Africa’s fastest-growing outbound travel markets.
It is worth noting that Dubai considers Kenya one of its most important tourism source markets in Africa, supported by growing demand for international travel, strong business ties and excellent air connectivity.
According to the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, Africa contributed approximately 897,000 visitors to Dubai in 2025, representing around 5 percent of all international arrivals, with Kenya continuing to play an important role in that growth.
Travelers also benefit from 42 direct weekly flights between Kenya and Dubai, 35 from Nairobi and seven from Mombasa, making Dubai one of the most accessible long-haul destinations for Kenyan travellers.
Importantly, the recent Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between Kenya and the United Arab Emirates, alongside expanded visa-on-arrival eligibility for qualifying Kenyan ordinary passport holders, is expected to further strengthen business, trade and tourism between the two countries.
On its part, DET reports that Kenyan travelers are increasingly looking for destinations that combine affordability, family experiences, shopping, culture and entertainment in one destination.
“This year’s roadshow is an opportunity to reaffirm our commitment to the Kenyan market and strengthen our partnerships with the travel trade,” said Khalaf Alaleeli – Assistant Manager, International Operations, Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DCTCM), Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET).
“Dubai continues to welcome visitors with exceptional value, world-class experiences and something for every type of traveler. Whether you’re traveling as a family, a solo traveler, with a group or for business, Dubai offers experiences across every budget,” he added.
To meet evolving traveler expectations, Dubai continues to expand its tourism offering with affordable accommodation options, free and low-cost attractions, new family entertainment experiences, and one of the world’s most diverse culinary scenes featuring more than 13,000 restaurants.
In addition, the city has also become the first Certified Autism Destination in the Eastern Hemisphere, reinforcing its commitment to accessible and inclusive tourism.
Meanwhile, Dubai remains one of the world’s leading destinations for safe and seamless travel, with tourism infrastructure, attractions, hotels and public services operating normally.
The city was ranked sixth globally in Numbeo’s Mid-Year 2026 Safety Index with a very low recorded crime index of 16.2. Dubai also continues to invest in comprehensive safety systems and real-time traveler information platforms to support visitors and tourism partners with timely operational updates.
By Michael Omondi
