UAE slaps ban on Ugandan tourists, workers

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The United Arab Emirates has, starting in 2026, stopped issuing tourist and work visas to Ugandans, New Vision Online has learnt.

The development means that Ugandans will no longer be able to apply for UAE visas till further notice. A visa is an essential document one needs to enter a country, no matter the reason for their visit.

Online sources indicate that the ban, as per the immigration circular, which is said to be temporary, is affecting eight other countries, including Cameroon, Sudan and Somalia. UAE, which borders Oman and Saudi Arabia, is composed of seven independent emirates: Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Qaiwain, Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah.

Sources also indicate that despite not releasing detailed reasons for its decision, the UAE government, according to multiple reports and sources the ban is linked to security concerns and geopolitical relations, among others.

Previous bans

UAE has previously announced bans and the issuance of visas to Ugandans. In 2022, it announced 30-day visas (visit visas) to Ugandans and other nationals from 20 other countries who seek to visit Dubai.

No reason was given as to why UAE had taken the decision, but sources said the move was aimed at keeping away African nationalities who had taken advantage of the visit visas to overstay in the UAE.

The UAE government issues several types of visas and entry permits based on the purpose of one's visit and some of these include tourist visas, patient and his/her companion entry permits, e-Visa for Co-operation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf (GCC) residents, retirement visa for UAE residents, transit visa, student visa and work visa, among others.

Uganda has over 100,000 legal migrant workers employed in UAE, some working as house cleaners and in salons, among others.

New Vision Online had not contacted Uganda's foreign affairs ministry or the UAE embassy in Uganda for a comment.