The United Arab Emirates has suspended the issuance of all new visas for Ugandan nationals and restricted entry for travelers from Uganda as part of measures aimed at preventing the spread of the Ebola virus.
The directive, announced in a joint statement by the UAE’s National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority and the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security, takes effect at 1pm on Saturday, June 6, 2026.
The suspension applies to all new visas, including visit visas. It also affects travelers from the Democratic Republic of the Congo and South Sudan.
“The measures are part of the UAE’s proactive and preventive efforts to strengthen national preparedness and respond to developments related to the Ebola virus,” UAE authorities said, adding that the decision may be extended depending on the situation.
Under the new guidelines, travelers arriving directly from Uganda, the DRC and South Sudan, as well as those who have transited through the three countries, will not be allowed to enter the UAE.
Authorities said the restriction will not apply to individuals who have spent more than 21 days outside the affected countries before traveling to the UAE. The 21-day period is the maximum incubation period for the Ebola virus.
Transit flight operations through the UAE and cargo flights will continue without interruption.
The UAE authorities said they are working with international partners to monitor developments and will review the restrictions based on continuing risk assessments.
Uganda’s Ministry of Health reported a cumulative total of 19 confirmed Ebola cases as of Saturday, June 6, 2026. The figure includes 14 imported cases and five Ugandan nationals. The ministry also reported no new cases in the latest update.
According to the ministry, 13 patients remain admitted and are receiving medical care, while four people have been discharged. Two deaths have been recorded, both involving imported cases.
The Ministry of Health has reassured the public that the situation remains controlled and that Uganda is safe.
