The Ministry of Labour and Social Protection has announced a massive overseas recruitment exercise targeting Kenyans seeking employment opportunities in Dubai and Saudi Arabia.

The recruitment drive will take place from October 29 to 31, 2025, at NITA Athi River and NITA Mombasa training centres.

According to the announcement by Labour Cabinet Secretary (CS) Dr. Alfred N. Mutua, the government, in collaboration with credible job agencies, is facilitating interviews for both male and female candidates to work in reputable international companies.

Hundreds of Job Openings in Dubai and Saudi Arabia

The available positions in Dubai include 350 taxi drivers, 500 riders and delivery drivers, 300 warehouse helpers and e-pickers, 150 security guards, cleaners, waitresses, hotel housekeepers, and construction workers such as masons, carpenters, and general labourers.

Applicants for the Dubai jobs must be aged between 21 and 45 years, with specific requirements such as fluency in English and a minimum height of 5’7 ft for security guards.

Saudi Arabia, on the other hand, is offering 50 driver positions and 25 mechanic jobs, with similar age requirements.

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Benefits and Contract Details

Successful candidates will enjoy a two-year renewable contract, free accommodation, food, transport, and medical cover.

The Ministry emphasized that all workers will be entitled to overtime pay as per UAE labour laws, and receive 30 days of annual leave.

Applicants are required to bring their National ID, school certificates, passport or proof of application, passport photos, and any academic or work-related documents for verification during the interviews.

Mandatory Commission Sparks Online Backlash

However, the announcement has sparked mixed reactions online, especially after the Ministry clarified that a mandatory commission would be charged to cover air tickets, medical, visa fees, and training costs.

An X user identified as @Brian_Ybzee criticized the approach, saying, “Private recruitment agencies were doing this very well. As the government, you should have formulated policies that prevent the exploitation of recruits and ensure fair treatment by employers.”

Another user, @Zeff16, questioned the government’s endorsement of commissions, arguing, “You mean the government is promoting this issue of paying commission, yet the employers already pay those rogue agents? This is aiding corruption. Recruitment should be free.”

A third user, @Mgenge, mocked the move, remarking, “A whole CS advertising jobs on social media like those conmen in the streets, who bewitched Kenyans surely.”

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Mutua Defends Initiative

Despite the criticism, Dr. Mutua defended the initiative, describing it as part of the government’s commitment to providing meaningful employment to Kenyans under fair labour conditions abroad.

He urged job seekers to arrive early, carry a packed lunch, and prepare for on-the-spot job offers during the interviews, stating that the opportunity is genuine and supported by official agencies.

The overseas recruitment program comes amid rising unemployment rates in Kenya, with the government seeking to link citizens to safe and well-paying international jobs while ensuring proper regulation of the recruitment process.

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Labor CS Dr. Alfred Mutua PHOTO/ Dr. Mutua X Account