Kenyan Graduates Set to Boost Technical Careers in Dubai
Opportunity in the UAE
Sixty Kenyan graduates from the National Youth Service (NYS) are prepared to elevate their technical careers in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, following a recent announcement detailing job opportunities in fabrication. This initiative is a significant step forward, offering skilled Kenyan tradespeople a chance to gain valuable international work experience in one of the world’s most dynamic industrial hubs.
Recruitment Drive Details
The NYS officially launched this recruitment drive, highlighting the importance of proficient written and spoken English for successful candidates. The selected graduates will be employed by a leading Dubai-based firm specializing in steel, structural, and industrial fabrication, as well as ship repair and rigging. This recruitment serves as a bridge for connecting local talent with global demands.
Qualifications and Skills
To qualify for these roles, applicants must possess a diploma or trade certificate in mechanical engineering, industrial engineering, or a related discipline. Importantly, candidates need to have completed coursework focused on welding and fabrication or mechanical engineering (production). Mastery of metal fabrication techniques is essential in order to meet the high standards expected in the industry.
Language Proficiency
Fluency in English is a non-negotiable requirement. Effective communication is crucial within a diverse international workforce, particularly when interpreting complex technical blueprints. This emphasis on language proficiency illustrates the NYS’s commitment to preparing graduates for real-world job conditions.
Support for Successful Candidates
In a bid to streamline the process, the NYS has pledged to expedite the passport acquisition for candidates who lack valid travel documentation. The initial employment contract spans two years, with opportunities for renewal, ensuring stability and long-term career growth for the selected individuals.
Fabrication Roles and Responsibilities
The jobs involve a spectrum of tasks that demand technical expertise. Key responsibilities include interpreting technical blueprints, cutting and shaping steel bars, and reinforcing concrete structures. Collaborating with engineers to optimize designs will also be a fundamental part of the role, alongside rigorous documentation that meets international standards.
Compensation Package
Successful candidates will receive a competitive compensation package, starting with a basic monthly salary of approximately Ksh51,087 (AED 1,250). This base salary is complemented by a food allowance of AED 350 (Ksh12,367). Alongside direct financial compensation, the employer will cover housing, transportation, uniforms, personal protective equipment (PPE), medical insurance, and liability coverage.
Additional Benefits
Employees will also benefit from round-trip economy class tickets between Kenya and the UAE every two years. The recruitment agent will cover initial flight expenses, while subsequent travel will be based on the employment contract. The company will take care of employment visas, residence permits, and any other necessary legal documentation for working in the UAE.
Work Schedule and Leave
The standard work schedule involves eight-hour shifts six days a week, providing a structured routine. Employees will also enjoy a 30-day annual leave period, adhering to UAE labor laws. Further benefits, including overtime pay and leave allowances, will be available, ensuring a fair and compliant work environment.
NYS’s Commitment to Skill Development
Since its establishment in 1964, the NYS has been pivotal in equipping Kenyan youth with the technical skills required for both personal advancement and national service. Initially founded to empower youth in the aftermath of Kenya’s independence struggle, the organization has transformed into a vital resource for facilitating pathways to skill-based employment domestically and abroad.
Application Process
Candidates interested in these exciting opportunities can apply through an online portal, which outlines detailed submission guidelines and eligibility criteria. The application deadline is set for Monday, June 9, 2025. Shortlisted applicants will then be invited to participate in practical assessments at the NYS Engineering Institute on Thursday, June 12, 2025.
Assessment of Technical Proficiency
The practical assessments aim to evaluate technical proficiency, problem-solving abilities, and the practical application of fabrication techniques comprehensively. This rigorous process ensures that only the best candidates are selected to meet the demands of their roles effectively.
Transition to Dubai
Once in Dubai, recruits will undergo a 90-day probationary period. This timeframe is designed to help them acclimate to the demands of their new jobs and become familiar with company policies, setting them up for success in their roles.
These opportunities signal a positive development not just for the graduates involved, but also for broader economic engagement between Kenya and the UAE, fostering international collaboration and skill exchange.
