Three Kenyans Among Five Killed in UAE High-Rise Fire

• Apr 16, 2025

A deadly fire in a residential high-rise in Sharjah, United Arab Emirates, has claimed five lives, including three Kenyans.

The fire broke out on Sunday in a 52-storey tower, reportedly starting from one of the top floors. Authorities believe the blaze may have begun around the 42nd floor, though investigations are still ongoing. Emergency teams responded quickly, successfully evacuating 148 residents. Despite their efforts, five people died and at least 19 others were injured.

The three Kenyan nationals are believed to have died while trying to escape the intense flames and smoke. The injured include individuals suffering from burns and smoke inhalation. Medical teams are currently monitoring their conditions.

The Kenyan government has confirmed the deaths and expressed condolences to the affected families. The Principal Secretary in the State Department for Diaspora Affairs extended sympathy and acknowledged the pain of losing loved ones so far from home. However, further details about the victims’ identities were not released, pending official confirmation and notification of next of kin.

Sharjah authorities have sealed off the area where the fire is believed to have started and deployed a forensic team to determine the exact cause. Investigators are examining whether the building’s fire detection and suppression systems worked effectively and whether evacuation procedures were timely and sufficient.

Survivors have shared harrowing accounts of their escape. Many residents fled using emergency stairwells, while others waited for rescue on balconies as the fire spread rapidly across the upper floors.

This incident has reignited concerns about fire safety in high-rise buildings, particularly in densely populated and fast-growing urban areas like Sharjah.

The Kenyan community in the UAE is mourning the loss. Diaspora leaders are calling for mental health support, financial help for burial or repatriation, and clear communication from authorities.

Both Kenyan and UAE officials have pledged to work together to uncover the cause of the tragedy and support those affected. Meanwhile, families in both countries are left grieving and seeking answers as investigations continue.