Uganda Embassy in UAE issues travel advisory amid Middle East tensions
An official communique, signed by the Ambassador of Uganda to UAE, Zaake W. Kibedi and dated Wednesday, March 18, 2026, has urged Ugandan nationals to remain vigilant and provides clear pathways for those seeking to return home.
Smoke billows from an ongoing fire near Dubai International Airport as vehicles drive on a highway in Dubai on March 16, 2026, after a "drone-related incident" sparked a fuel tank fire nearby, as Iran kept up its Gulf attacks. (AFP)
ABU DHABI - In response to the evolving security climate in the Middle East resulting from the war involving Iran, the Uganda Embassy in Abu Dhabi has issued an urgent advisory for nationals to ensure their safety and compliance with local regulations.
An official communique, signed by the Ambassador of Uganda to UAE, Zaake W. Kibedi and dated Wednesday March 18, 2026, has urged Ugandan nationals to remain vigilant and provides clear pathways for those seeking to return home.
For those wishing to return to Uganda, the embassy has recommended booking travel through major regional carriers, including Emirates, FlyDubai, and Air Arabia.
"Additionally, citizens are advised to carry valid identification at all times as required by UAE law and to strictly follow all instructions issued by local authorities," said the ambassador.
The advisory further emphasised the importance of monitoring local media and official government channels for real-time updates on the regional situation.
Consular operations and support
Despite the heightened state of alert, the Embassy in Abu Dhabi and the Consulate in Dubai remain fully operational, according to Kibedi.
He reassured the Ugandan community that diplomatic staff are available to assist those in need.
"For citizens requiring urgent consular assistance, the embassy has established an emergency phone line at +971 52 882 8872. Documentation and support can also be requested via email at consular@ugandaembassyuae.com, info@ugandaembassyuae.com, or info@ugandaconsulatedubai.com," he added.
The ongoing war has continued to cause concern for people residing in the region, with increasing missile and drone attacks.
As of March 18, 2026, Iranian attacks on the UAE had resulted in at least eight deaths.
Earlier this month, the permanent secretary of Uganda’s foreign affairs ministry, Vincent Bagiire, said the government was monitoring the situation in the Middle East with concern and advised Ugandans to suspend travel to the affected countries until further notice.
Bagiire also urged Ugandans residing in Iran to take precautionary measures and consider leaving if possible. 
Ambassador Zaake W. Kibedi
Thousands of Ugandans in Middle East
According to data from the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development, there are approximately 250,000 to 320,000 Ugandans currently working in the Middle East.
Saudi Arabia remains the primary destination, hosting over 180,000 workers, which is roughly 80% of the total.
The UAE follows with nearly 30,000, and Qatar with approximately 14,000. Other notable destinations include Jordan, Bahrain, Iraq, and Oman.
The workforce is predominantly female, accounting for roughly 84% of migrant workers, while men make up about 16%.
Main occupations
The majority of Ugandans in the region are employed in semi-skilled or manual labor roles such as housemaids, nannies, and personal helpers.
While manual labour dominates, there is a growing segment of Ugandans entering professional fields, particularly in the UAE and Qatar.
These include roles in healthcare, such as nursing and caregiving, as well as positions in aviation like ground handling and airport operations.
There is also an increase in administrative roles, including office assistants and data entry clerks.
The labour externalization sector is a massive economic driver for Uganda, contributing an estimated $600m (approximately sh2.2 trillion) in annual remittances.