By Walimbwa Moses
The UAE has lifted its suspension on new visas for Ugandan nationals, reopening travel opportunities subject to revised health requirements
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has reopened its doors to Ugandans after lifting a visa suspension introduced in June 2026 over concerns about the Ebola virus outbreak.
The announcement was made in Abu Dhabi on Wednesday, November 11, 2026, by the National Emergency, Crisis and Disasters Management Authority (NCEMA), working with the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) and the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security (ICP).
Under the revised arrangements, the suspension of new visa issuance to Ugandan nationals has been lifted. However, travelers must have spent at least 21 days outside Uganda before entering the UAE.
The decision brings relief to many Ugandans who had been unable to pursue employment, business, education and other opportunities in the Gulf country because of the restrictions.
In its announcement, the UAE authorities said the decision was guided by the need to protect public health while maintaining preparedness against possible health threats.
“The authorities reaffirmed that these measures reflect the UAE’s commitment to protecting public health, strengthening preparedness, and responding to health risks, while continuing to monitor the epidemiological situation and update precautionary measures in line with emerging developments and risk assessments,” the statement read.
Uganda’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Ambassador Adonia Ayebare, welcomed the development and thanked the UAE government for reconsidering the restrictions.
In a social media message, Ayebare particularly recognized Sheikh Shakhboot Bin Nahyan Al Nahyan, the UAE Minister of State for Foreign Affairs in Charge of Africa, for his leadership and assistance in addressing the matter.
“This is to thank the Friendly Government of the United Arab Emirates for lifting Ebola-related travel restrictions. I thank my brother and Friend Sheikh Shakhboot Bin Nahyan Al Nahyan, the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs in Charge of Africa, for his leadership and assistance,” Ayebare said.
The restrictions were introduced on June 6, 2026, when the UAE suspended new visa issuance for nationals of Uganda, the Democratic Republic of Congo and South Sudan and restricted entry for travelers arriving from the affected countries.
However, the latest announcement specifically eases the restrictions on Ugandans. Measures affecting nationals of the Democratic Republic of Congo and South Sudan remain in force.
The UAE has also provided for special entry arrangements for Ugandan students who enrolled in its educational institutions before June 2026, together with their family members. Administrative staff at Uganda’s embassy in the UAE and their families, as well as holders of diplomatic and special passports, are also covered under approved procedures.
Medical and humanitarian cases will be considered individually, with those seeking medical treatment required to provide approved medical reports.
The decision is particularly important for Ugandans who depend on the UAE for their livelihoods. Many work in domestic services, cleaning, security, hospitality, driving and retail, while others work in professional fields such as banking, aviation and engineering.
Dubai is also a major shopping and trading destination for Ugandan entrepreneurs who buy electronics, clothing, jewellery and other merchandise to sell back home.
With the restrictions eased, Ugandans once again have an opportunity to pursue these economic activities and reconnect with opportunities in the UAE.
For those planning to travel, however, the message is clear: the doors have reopened, but the 21-day entry requirement and applicable immigration procedures must be observed.