The United Arab Emirates has suspended the issuance of new visas for citizens of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Uganda, and South Sudan, effective June 6, 2026, as part of a preventive public health strategy to guard against potential Ebola virus outbreaks. The National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority (NCEMA) and the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) jointly announced the measures, which took effect at 1 p.m. on Saturday, June 6, 2026.
Who Is Affected by the Restrictions
Beyond the visa suspension, travellers arriving from the three countries will face entry restrictions into the UAE. The ban extends to individuals who travelled through third countries before reaching the Emirates, closing potential workarounds. However, travellers who had spent more than 21 consecutive days outside the three listed countries before arriving in the UAE will be permitted entry and are exempt from the new rules, according to Gulfnews.
What Remains Unaffected
Cargo operations linking the UAE to the DRC, Uganda, and South Sudan will continue without disruption. Transit flights through UAE airports will also remain operational, preserving the flow of goods and international air connectivity. NCEMA and ICP said they would maintain close coordination with local and international partners to monitor global health developments, with further measures to be introduced based on approved risk assessments should the situation require it.
Ebola Prevention Drives UAE's Decision
Ebola, which causes severe viral haemorrhagic fever and carries a high fatality rate, has historically prompted swift border and surveillance responses from governments across the world whenever outbreaks are reported in affected regions. The UAE's proactive approach aims to strengthen national defences against potential outbreaks.
UAE Announces Six Major Visa Rule Changes in 2026
Legit.ng earlier reported that the UAE has introduced a series of visa and residency reforms in 2026, affecting tourists, property investors, medical travellers and visitors from several countries. According to Khaleej Times, one of the most significant updates is the expansion of the UAE's visa-on-arrival programme. Previously available only to eligible Indian nationals, the scheme has now been extended to citizens of Indonesia, Vietnam, Thailand, the Philippines, Kenya and South Africa. Authorities have also broadened the list of countries whose residency permits qualify applicants for the facility. Besides the United States, the United Kingdom and European Union member states, eligible travellers may now also hold valid residency in Singapore, Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand or Canada.
