UAE Lifts Visa Suspension for Ugandan Nationals

The United Arab Emirates has lifted its suspension on new visas for Ugandan nationals, a measure that had been in place since June 2026. This change, announced on November 11, 2026, by the National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority (NCEMA), allows Ugandans to apply for visas once again. However, specific conditions and entry requirements remain in effect, and travelers are advised to seek clarification on individual circumstances.

General Entry Requirements for Ugandan Nationals

The primary condition for entry into the UAE for Ugandan nationals is a 21-day waiting period after departing Uganda. This period is calculated from the date a traveler leaves the country. The announcement from NCEMA, in coordination with the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) and the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP), did not specify a separate effective date for this change, nor did it explicitly state that November 10 was the start date. While Ugandans can now apply for visas, this does not guarantee issuance or entry. The UAE authorities will continue to monitor the health situation and adjust measures as needed.

Specific Categories with Separate Provisions

While the general 21-day rule applies, the announcement outlines several categories of Ugandan nationals who may enter under specific approved procedures. It is important to note that the announcement does not clarify whether these separately listed groups are exempt from the 21-day condition. Travelers in these categories should confirm their status with ICP before making travel plans.

Students and Their Families

Ugandan students who were enrolled in UAE educational institutions before June 2026, along with their family members, are permitted to enter the UAE under approved health procedures. This provision aims to ensure that students can continue their education without undue disruption.

Embassy Staff and Diplomatic Passport Holders

Administrative staff of the Ugandan embassy who hold ordinary passports, and their accompanying family members, may enter the UAE subject to approved procedures. Additionally, Ugandan diplomatic and special passport holders are allowed entry under health procedures designated for exempted categories.

Humanitarian and Medical Cases

Individuals traveling for humanitarian or medical reasons will undergo an individual assessment. Approval for these cases is not automatic and requires specific documentation. Medical travelers must submit approved reports that clearly state their diagnosis, the treatment facility, and the scheduled start date for their treatment. These requirements are tailored to the specific circumstances of each case.

Ongoing Health Measures for Other Countries

The easing of restrictions for Ugandan nationals does not affect the precautionary measures in place for travelers from the Democratic Republic of the Congo and South Sudan. Health authorities will continue to monitor the conditions in these countries and maintain existing protocols. Uganda officially declared its latest Ebola outbreak over on July 28, 2026, after a 42-day period with no new infections. The UAE’s revised measures for Uganda followed the initial precautions introduced in June 2026. NCEMA, MoHAP, and ICP have stated their commitment to ongoing monitoring of the epidemiological situation and will adjust precautions as risk assessments evolve.

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