News Desk
The News Desk provides timely and factual coverage of national and international events, with an emphasis on accuracy and clarity.
The UAE has ended its suspension on issuing new visas to Ugandan nationals.
AI generated photo
The United Arab Emirates has lifted its suspension on issuing new visas to Ugandan nationals, ending restrictions introduced in June 2026 over Ebola-related health concerns, Khaleej Times reported on Wednesday, citing the National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority (NCEMA).
Has the UAE lifted visa restrictions on Ugandans?
Yes. The UAE has ended its suspension on issuing new visas to Ugandan nationals. Travelers can enter the country if at least 21 days have passed since they left Uganda. Certain categories are also eligible for entry under approved health procedures.
NCEMA announced the decision in coordination with the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) and the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP).
Who else can enter the UAE from Uganda?
Certain categories of travelers are exempt from the general restrictions, subject to approved health procedures.
Ugandan students enrolled at UAE educational institutions before June 2026 can enter the country, along with their family members.
Administrative staff at the Ugandan embassy in the UAE holding ordinary passports are also eligible, as are their family members.
Holders of Ugandan diplomatic and special passports can also enter under the approved health protocols.
Can Ugandans travel to the UAE for medical treatment?
Yes. Humanitarian and medical travel requests will be assessed individually under applicable regulations.
Applicants seeking medical treatment must submit approved medical reports detailing their diagnosis, the healthcare facility where treatment will take place and the scheduled date treatment will begin.
Do Ebola-related entry restrictions still apply to other countries?
Yes. Precautionary measures for travelers from the Democratic Republic of the Congo and South Sudan remain unchanged.
The restrictions will continue under existing regulations as UAE authorities monitor the health situation in both countries.
NCEMA, MoHAP and ICP said the measures reflected the UAE's commitment to protecting public health and strengthening preparedness against potential health risks.
The authorities will continue monitoring the epidemiological situation and update precautionary measures based on developments and risk assessments.
Comments
See what people are discussing