Living in Mombasa: the ultimate expat guide

Mombasa's economy centers on its Kilindini Harbour, East Africa's busiest port serving Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, and beyond. The city offers employment in maritime logistics, tourism, manufacturing, and increasingly in technology services through undersea telecom cables landing nearby.

Key Employment Sectors

The Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) is a major employer, alongside shipping companies, freight forwarders, and customs brokers. Tourism generates significant jobs in hotels, tour operations, and hospitality. Manufacturing includes the Bamburi Cement factory, an oil refinery, and food processing plants. NGOs and international organizations maintain regional offices here, particularly those focused on coastal and marine conservation.

Work Permit Requirements

Foreign nationals require a Class D Work Permit for employment, issued for two years and renewable. Employers must demonstrate that the position cannot be filled locally. Applications are submitted online through the eFNS Portal at fns.immigration.go.ke. Processing typically takes 2-4 months, with fees ranging from $650-$1,300 depending on permit class.

Employment Indicators

Sources: Trading Economics, Kenya National Bureau of Statistics

Mombasa offers several higher education options for international students and professionals seeking to upgrade their qualifications while living on the coast.

Technical University of Mombasa (TUM)

The city's primary university, Technical University of Mombasa, traces its origins to 1948 and achieved full university status in 2013. Located centrally on Tom Mboya Road, TUM offers programs in engineering, business, applied sciences, and computing through five schools and two institutes. Specialties include marine engineering, mining, and port management—unique programs aligned with the regional economy. The university admits international students and offers certificate, diploma, and degree programs.

Other Institutions

Several universities maintain Mombasa campuses, including Kenyatta University and Mount Kenya University. The Kenya School of Government provides professional development courses. For technical training, the Bandari Maritime Academy offers specialized maritime education recognized internationally.

Admission and Fees

International students apply through individual institutions or the Kenya Universities and Colleges Central Placement Service (KUCCPS). Tuition fees at TUM range from $1,500-$4,000 annually depending on the program. Most courses are taught in English. Academic calendars follow a trimester system with intakes in September and January.

Sources: Technical University of Mombasa

Mombasa provides quality education options for expatriate families, with several international schools following British, American, or International Baccalaureate curricula.

International Schools

Braeburn Mombasa International School follows the British National Curriculum from Early Years through A-Levels, with annual fees starting around $3,500 for younger children. The Aga Khan Academy Mombasa is an IB World School offering the full International Baccalaureate program with boarding facilities for 160 students. Annual tuition ranges from $4,000-$24,000 depending on grade level. Coast Academy and Mombasa Academy in Nyali also follow British curricula and are popular with expatriate families.

School Selection Considerations

Most international schools cluster in Nyali and Kizingo, making these neighborhoods attractive for families. Schools typically require birth certificates, previous academic records, and medical documentation. Waiting lists exist at top schools, so early application is advisable. Many schools offer bus services across major residential areas.

Typical Annual Fees

Sources: International Schools Database, Aga Khan Academies

Mombasa offers diverse housing options from modern apartments in gated communities to beachside villas. Most expatriates choose neighborhoods on the north coast, connected to Mombasa Island via Nyali Bridge.

Popular Expat Neighborhoods

Nyali is the premier residential area, featuring shopping malls (City Mall, Nyali Centre), international schools, hospitals, and beach access. Expect modern apartments and houses in secure compounds with 24-hour security. Bamburi offers similar amenities at lower prices, with easy access to Bamburi Beach and Haller Park. Shanzu provides a quieter, resort-style environment popular with families. On the island, Kizingo houses government offices and offers proximity to the Old Town, while Tudor provides affordable options close to central amenities.

Rental Market

Most rentals are unfurnished. Landlords typically require one month's deposit plus first month's rent. Many compounds include security, backup water, and sometimes generators. Rental agreements usually run for one year.

Average Monthly Rents

Sources: Numbeo, Rent Kenya

Mombasa combines beach relaxation, historical exploration, and wildlife encounters in ways few cities can match.

Historical Attractions

Fort Jesus, built by the Portuguese in 1593-1596, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site housing a museum with artifacts from the Swahili coast. The adjacent Old Town features narrow streets lined with Arab, Asian, and Portuguese architecture, carved wooden doors, and spice markets. The iconic Mombasa Tusks on Moi Avenue mark the city's symbolic entrance.

Beaches and Marine Life

Nyali Beach and Bamburi Beach offer white sand, water sports, and beachfront restaurants. The Mombasa Marine National Park protects coral reefs ideal for snorkeling and diving—glass-bottom boat tours are available for non-swimmers. Further south, Diani Beach (2 hours) is consistently rated among Africa's best.

Nature and Wildlife

Haller Park in Bamburi transformed former limestone quarries into a nature reserve where visitors can feed giraffes and observe hippos, crocodiles, and diverse birdlife. Shimba Hills National Reserve, 33km south, offers forest walks and elephants. Day trips to Tsavo National Park provide authentic safari experiences.

Nightlife and Dining

Mtwapa north of Mombasa is known for its vibrant nightlife and beach bars. The Tamarind Dhow offers dinner cruises on Tudor Creek. Old Town restaurants serve authentic Swahili cuisine—try biryani, pilau, and fresh seafood.

Sources: TripAdvisor Mombasa, UNESCO Fort Jesus

Life in Mombasa follows a relaxed coastal rhythm, shaped by the tropical climate and the city's diverse cultural heritage. The predominantly Muslim population means modest dress is appreciated, particularly in Old Town areas.

Getting Around

The SGR Madaraka Express connects Mombasa to Nairobi in approximately 5 hours, with economy tickets around $12-15 and first class at $35. Within Mombasa, matatus (minibuses) and tuk-tuks provide affordable local transport. The Likoni Ferry links the island to the south coast—expect queues during rush hours. Most expatriates own vehicles or use ride-hailing apps. Traffic on Nyali Bridge can be heavy during peak hours.

Climate and Lifestyle

Mombasa enjoys warm temperatures year-round (25-32°C), with humidity highest from March to May. The dry season (December-March) offers ideal beach weather. Daily life centers on early mornings and evenings to avoid midday heat. Shopping options include City Mall, Nyali Centre, and local markets like Kongowea for fresh produce. Supermarkets such as Carrefour and Naivas stock international products.

Healthcare

Private hospitals provide good care, including Aga Khan Hospital, Mombasa Hospital, and Pandya Memorial Hospital. International health insurance is essential, as public healthcare facilities are limited. English-speaking doctors are readily available.

Mombasa offers a significantly lower cost of living than Nairobi—approximately 20-25% cheaper—while maintaining access to modern amenities and services.

Monthly Budget: Single Person

The following estimates assume mid-range lifestyle choices in an expat-friendly neighborhood:

Monthly Budget: Family of Four

Sources: Numbeo, Living Cost