Abu Dhabi: The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has reportedly suspended the issuance of tourist and work visas to citizens of nine countries across Africa and Asia. According to a circulating immigration notice, the temporary visa ban affects applicants from Uganda, Sudan, Somalia, Cameroon, Libya, Afghanistan, Yemen, Lebanon, and Bangladesh.
The directive, which took effect recently, halts the processing of new visa applications from these nations until further notice. UAE authorities have not issued an official public statement explaining the rationale behind the decision. However, multiple regional reports suggest the suspension may be tied to a mix of national security concerns and strained diplomatic relations.
This is not the first time the UAE has enforced similar measures. In the past, temporary visa restrictions have been placed on other countries, including Nigeria, typically with limited or no public explanation.
Possible Reasons Behind the Ban
While no official reason has been provided, sources close to immigration services have cited several possible motivations behind the move:
- Security precautions: The UAE may be tightening border control measures to prevent potential threats, including terrorism or illegal activities.
- Geopolitical tensions: Ongoing political instability and diplomatic strains between certain countries and Gulf states may have influenced the decision.
- Health and safety protocols: Though the global threat of COVID-19 has diminished, some travel restrictions remain in place to manage pandemic-related risks and enforce stricter entry regulations.
Officials have emphasized that the ban is temporary and subject to review based on security assessments and evolving foreign policy dynamics. Areason for can also be people who work illegally and are a risk to country’s security.
Impact on Expatriates and Diplomatic Relations
The suspension has caused disruptions for many expatriates and job seekers from the affected nations. Some report difficulties in renewing work permits, securing employment opportunities, or sponsoring family members. Although new visa applications are suspended, individuals from these countries already residing in the UAE on valid visas remain unaffected and may continue living and working legally.
Diplomatic observers note that the visa freeze could slow down trade, tourism, and diplomatic engagement between the UAE and several of the banned countries, at least in the short term.
Visa Ban vs Travel Ban: Understanding the Distinction
It is important to differentiate between a visa ban and a travel ban. A visa ban blocks the processing of new visa applications for specific nationalities. In contrast, a travel ban targets individuals based on specific circumstances, such as criminal records, immigration violations, or health-related concerns—regardless of nationality.
Common reasons for a personal travel ban in the UAE include:
- Using a forged or expired visa or passport
- Overstaying a visa’s validity period
- Working without a legal work permit
- Having a criminal background or unresolved legal case
- Failing to meet COVID-19 testing or vaccination criteria
What Happens After the Ban is Lifted?
Once the visa ban is lifted, affected nationals will be eligible once again to:
- Apply for short-term or long-term tourist visas
- Obtain legal work permits through UAE employers
- Enter the UAE through official visa channels, including online portals or UAE embassies
The resumption of visa services would restore mobility and economic opportunities for thousands who rely on the UAE job market or frequently travel to the country for business and tourism.
Also Read: Islamabad cracks down on unlicensed drivers
Current Entry Requirements for All Foreign Nationals (2026 Update)
As of 2026, all foreign nationals entering the UAE must comply with standard immigration and health regulations, including:
- A passport valid for at least six months with two blank pages
- An approved UAE visa (tourist, work, transit, or business)
- A negative RT-PCR COVID-19 test result, if required
- Proof of COVID-19 vaccination (as per UAE guidelines)
- Compliance with health screening and quarantine protocols, if applicable
