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400,000 Kenyans in Middle East put on high alert after US, Israel strike Iran
Smoke rises after reported Iranian missile attacks, following strikes by the United States and Israel against Iran, in Manama, Bahrain, February 28, 2026.
The Kenyan government on Saturday asked the 400,000 citizens in the Middle East to take caution, be in touch with the diplomatic agencies, as the United States and Israel attacked Iran in an escalation of the conflict in the region, which saw other neighbouring countries also hit or facing attacks.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has expressed deep concern over the escalating crisis in the Middle East, warning Kenyan citizens to exercise caution and stay in close contact with diplomatic missions.
“We are following with deep concern the evolving situation in the Middle East and are in close communication with our diplomatic Missions. We urge Kenyans in the region to exercise caution. We stand in solidarity with countries calling for de-escalation and a return to UN Charter based mechanisms for resolving matters in dispute,” said Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Korir Sing'oei.
Smoke rises following an explosion, after Israel's Defence Minister Israel Katz said Israel had launched a pre-emptive attack against Iran, in Tehran, Iran, February 28, 2026, in this screen grab taken from video.
According to government estimates, as of mid-2024, over 416,000 Kenyans are working in the Gulf States, with the largest population located in Saudi Arabia (approximately 310,000), followed by Qatar (66,000) and the UAE (23,000-30,000). Other significant populations exist in Bahrain, Oman, and Kuwait, with many working as domestic or skilled labourers.
This comes amid heightened tensions in the region after President Donald Trump announced the start of US military strikes on Iran following the collapse of nuclear negotiations in Geneva.
On February 28, 2026, the United States and Israel launched what was described as a joint military offensive against Iran. In a video address, Trump confirmed the commencement of “major combat operations,” terming the campaign “massive and ongoing.”
In a press statement, the African Union (AU) Commission expressed deep concern over recent military strikes carried out by the United States in coordination with Israeli forces against targets inside the Islamic Republic of Iran. The actions mark a significant intensification of hostilities in the Middle East.
People run for cover following an explosion, after Israel said it launched a pre-emptive attack against Iran, in Tehran, Iran, February 28, 2026.
The Chairperson of the AU Commission, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, urged all parties to exercise restraint, pursue urgent de-escalation, and engage in sustained dialogue. He emphasised that all actors must adhere strictly to international law and the United Nations Charter to safeguard global peace and security.
“The Chairperson warns that further escalation threatens to worsen global instability, with serious implications for energy markets, food security, and economic resilience—particularly in Africa, where conflict and economic pressures remain acute,” said Mr Youssouf.
The developments triggered airspace closures in parts of the Gulf region, disrupting commercial aviation routes, including those serving the UAE.
Kenya Airways (KQ) in a statement temporarily suspended flights to Dubai and Sharjah in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) following the closure of UAE airspace due to escalating military operations in the region.
In a statement, the national carrier said the suspension was prompted by safety concerns after Iran threatened counter-strikes targeting United States military bases in the Middle East. The airline emphasised that the decision is temporary and aimed at ensuring the safety of passengers and crew.
“We wish to inform our customers that we have temporarily suspended flights to Dubai and Sharjah until further notice due to the UAE airspace closure. As a result, and for the safety of our customers and crew, we have cancelled KQ310, KQ305 and freighter flights,” KQ said.
Kenya Airways said it was closely monitoring the situation and would resume operations once it was deemed safe.
“We sincerely apologise for the inconvenience caused and appreciate your patience and understanding. We will communicate and engage directly with affected customers and provide them with the necessary assistance,” the airline said.
The decision comes as the Kenyan Embassy in Doha issued an advisory urging Kenyans in the region to remain vigilant following reports of explosions in the United Arab Emirates, including Abu Dhabi and Dubai, as well as in Qatar’s Doha and Saudi Arabia’s Riyadh, plunging the region into renewed conflict.
The embassy advised Kenyans to remain vigilant, follow official guidance, and obtain updates from verified government platforms.
“The Embassy of Kenya in Doha is closely monitoring recent developments in Qatar and the wider Middle East and remains in contact with Qatari authorities. We urge the Kenyan community to remain calm, follow official guidance, and rely on verified government platforms for updates”, the embassy said.
Several Gulf countries have shut or suspended airspace after a wave of airstrikes rattled the region.
Explosions rocked the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, and Kuwait, sparking panic and urgent security responses.
In the UAE, state media reported one fatality after Iranian missiles were intercepted. Meanwhile, Bahrain confirmed missile strikes on the US naval base, home to the Fifth Fleet.
Iran, which had vowed retaliation if US forces acted against it, appears to be following through on its threat.
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