The United Arab Emirates has temporarily halted the issuance of new visas to citizens of three African nations as part of measures aimed at reinforcing its preparedness against potential Ebola-related risks.
The affected African countries are Sudan, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The announcement was made through a joint statement issued by the National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority (NCEMA) and the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP).
Restrictions Take Effect Immediately
Officials confirmed that the suspension applies to all categories of newly issued visas, including visit visas. The directive came into force at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, 6 June 2026.
Explaining the move, the authorities said the decision is part of the UAE’s “proactive and preventive efforts to strengthen national preparedness and respond to developments related to the Ebola virus.”
They also indicated that the measure remains subject to review and may stay in place longer depending on how the situation evolves.
Entry Requirements Outlined
The agencies further clarified that individuals travelling from the affected countries will not be allowed to enter the UAE, even if they transit through another nation, unless they have spent more than 21 days outside the impacted countries before their arrival.
Despite the visa restrictions, transit flight services will continue as normal, while cargo transportation between the UAE and the three African countries will not be affected.
NCEMA and ICP also emphasized that they are maintaining close surveillance of developments surrounding the Ebola outbreak in coordination with domestic and international partners.
According to the statement, additional precautionary actions could be implemented if required, based on continuous risk evaluations and established public health guidelines.
