The UAE has temporarily suspended new visa issuances for nationals of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Uganda, and South Sudan due to ongoing Ebola outbreaks.
The precautionary measure was announced by the National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority (NCEMA) and the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) to safeguard public health and enhance national readiness.
The UAE has announced new precautionary measures to strengthen its protection against the Ebola virus as health authorities continue monitoring developments in affected regions.
In a joint announcement, the National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority (NCEMA) and the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) confirmed the temporary suspension of new visa issuances for nationals from the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Uganda, and South Sudan. The decision comes amid ongoing Ebola outbreaks in these countries and forms part of the UAE’s broader strategy to safeguard community health and maintain national preparedness.
For residents and businesses across the UAE, the move highlights the country’s continued focus on preventive action whenever global health risks emerge.
Why has the UAE introduced these Ebola-related measures?
According to NCEMA and ICP, the measures are precautionary and intended to minimise potential health risks associated with the spread of the Ebola virus.
The UAE has consistently adopted a proactive approach to public health emergencies. Rather than waiting for risks to escalate, authorities often implement preventive measures based on ongoing assessments and international health developments.
The latest decision follows increased monitoring of Ebola outbreaks in parts of Central and East Africa. UAE authorities stated that they will continue evaluating the situation in coordination with local and international partners and adjust measures whenever necessary.
What exactly has changed?
The most significant change is the temporary suspension of new visa issuances for nationals of:
- Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC)
- Uganda
- South Sudan
The measure took effect from June 6, 2026, and may be extended depending on the evolving health situation.
In addition, UAE authorities confirmed that entry restrictions will apply to travellers arriving from these countries. This includes individuals travelling through transit routes involving any of the listed nations.
However, travellers who have spent more than 21 days outside the affected countries before arriving in the UAE may still be eligible for entry, subject to applicable requirements.
What does this mean for UAE residents and travellers?
For most UAE residents, expats, and tourists, there will be little direct impact on everyday life.
The restrictions specifically target travel and visa issuance related to the three affected countries. Cargo operations and transit flight services will continue as normal, ensuring that trade and logistics remain unaffected.
Residents planning business trips or personal travel involving the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Uganda, or South Sudan should stay updated with the latest travel advisories before making arrangements.
Earlier, the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) also advised UAE nationals and residents against travelling to these countries unless necessary due to the evolving Ebola situation.
UAE continues its proactive public health approach
The latest announcement reflects the UAE’s long-standing emphasis on prevention and preparedness when dealing with international health concerns.
Whether responding to infectious disease outbreaks, travel-related risks, or emergency situations, UAE authorities have regularly implemented precautionary measures designed to protect residents while maintaining essential services.
NCEMA and ICP reiterated that the country will continue closely monitoring global health developments and take further action whenever required based on approved health standards and risk assessments.
For Dubai residents and the wider UAE community, the announcement serves as a reminder of the country’s ongoing efforts to prioritise public health while ensuring smooth operations across travel, trade, and essential sectors.
FAQs
Q: Which countries are affected by the UAE’s visa suspension?
A: The temporary suspension applies to nationals of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Uganda, and South Sudan due to ongoing Ebola outbreaks in these countries.
Q: When did the new UAE Ebola-related measures come into effect?
A: The measures took effect on June 6, 2026, at 1pm UAE time and may be extended depending on the public health situation.
Q: Are cargo flights between the UAE and affected countries suspended?
A: No. UAE authorities confirmed that cargo operations will continue as normal despite the visa and entry restrictions.
Q: Has the UAE banned travel to these countries?
A: The UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs has advised nationals and residents to avoid non-essential travel to Uganda, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and South Sudan, but this is a travel advisory rather than a complete travel ban.
Q: Why is the UAE taking these measures?
A: The measures are preventive and aimed at protecting public health, strengthening national preparedness, and reducing potential risks associated with the Ebola outbreak.
As global health authorities continue monitoring Ebola outbreaks in parts of Africa, the UAE has moved swiftly to introduce additional precautionary measures. The temporary suspension of new visas for nationals of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Uganda, and South Sudan reflects the country’s proactive approach to safeguarding residents and maintaining public health preparedness.
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