UAE Reopens Visa Access for Ugandan Nationals After Ebola Restrictions
The United Arab Emirates has officially relaxed the entry requirements for travelers from Uganda, ending a visa suspension that had been in place since June 2026 due to Ebola concerns. According to a joint statement from the National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority and health officials, Ugandan citizens can now apply for entry provided they have spent at least 21 days outside of their home country before traveling. This policy shift marks a significant step toward normalizing travel relations while still maintaining necessary public health oversight.
Beyond the general easing of rules, the UAE is granting specific exemptions to certain groups, including students enrolled in local institutions, diplomatic passport holders, and embassy administrative staff. The government has also established a pathway for medical and humanitarian cases, which will be evaluated on an individual basis to ensure safety. While these updates represent a positive development for Ugandan travelers, the UAE has clarified that strict precautionary measures remain active for those arriving from the Democratic Republic of the Congo and South Sudan, as authorities continue to monitor regional health risks closely.