UAE Suspends Visas, Bars Travelers from Three African Countries

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has announced the suspension of new visa issuance for nationals of three African countries and barred travelers arriving from those nations as part of measures aimed at preventing the spread of Ebola.

The restriction affects citizens of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Uganda and South Sudan. The directive, which took effect on June 6, 2026, was announced jointly by the UAE’s National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority (NCEMA) and the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP).

Under the new rules, nationals of the affected countries will not be issued new visas, while travelers arriving from those countries will be denied entry into the UAE, even if they travel through third countries.

UAE authorities said the move was necessitated by growing concerns over Ebola outbreaks reported in parts of Central and East Africa and forms part of efforts to safeguard public health and strengthen national preparedness against infectious diseases.

However, an exception has been made for individuals who have remained outside the affected countries for more than 21 days before their arrival in the UAE. Officials explained that the 21-day period corresponds with the maximum incubation period of the Ebola virus and serves as a precautionary benchmark for assessing potential health risks.

The UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention, in an advisory issued earlier this month, noted that ongoing Ebola outbreaks were largely concentrated in parts of the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda. Although South Sudan was not specifically mentioned in the advisory, it was included in the latest travel restrictions.

The decision mirrors measures adopted by several countries during previous Ebola outbreaks, with governments seeking to prevent cross-border transmission of the deadly virus through stricter travel controls and enhanced screening procedures.

Despite the passenger restrictions, UAE authorities clarified that cargo operations between the Emirates and the affected countries will continue uninterrupted. Transit and freight services will also remain operational, ensuring the flow of goods and essential supplies is not disrupted.

Officials emphasized that the country’s public health situation remains stable and that precautionary systems are already in place across airports, ports and other points of entry.

Nationals of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Uganda and South Sudan who have stayed outside their home countries for more than 21 days may still be eligible for entry, provided they can present documentation proving their travel history.

The visa suspension and travel restrictions will remain in force until further notice. Authorities said the measures will be reviewed periodically based on evolving public health assessments and developments surrounding the Ebola outbreaks.

Travelers affected by the restrictions have been advised to contact their airlines and travel agents to explore alternative travel arrangements and routes that do not require entry through the UAE.