ABU DHABI, UAE — The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has suspended the issuance of new visas for nationals of three African countries as part of heightened precautionary measures against the spread of the Ebola virus.
The decision, announced jointly by the UAE’s National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority (NCEMA) and the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP), affects citizens of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Uganda and South Sudan. The measures took effect on June 6, 2026.
According to UAE authorities, the visa suspension forms part of a broader strategy aimed at strengthening national preparedness and protecting public health amid concerns over Ebola outbreaks reported in parts of Africa.
Under the new rules, all newly issued visas, including visit visas, have been suspended for nationals of the three affected countries. In addition, travelers arriving directly from the DRC, Uganda or South Sudan will not be permitted entry into the UAE. The restrictions also extend to passengers who transit through other countries after recently being in any of the affected nations.
However, authorities said travelers who have remained outside the three countries for more than 21 days before arriving in the UAE will be allowed entry. Cargo and transit flight operations between the UAE and the affected countries will continue without interruption.
Officials noted that the restrictions could be extended depending on developments surrounding the Ebola situation and ongoing risk assessments. The UAE said it will continue to monitor the outbreak in coordination with local and international health partners.
The announcement comes days after the UAE’s Ministry of Health and Prevention reassured residents that no Ebola cases have been detected within the country. Health authorities said surveillance systems, airport screening measures and healthcare preparedness remain at a high level as the nation seeks to prevent any potential importation of the virus.
The UAE has also advised its citizens and residents to avoid non-essential travel to the affected countries while health officials continue to assess the evolving situation. The government emphasized that the measures are preventive and aimed at safeguarding public health and traveler safety.
Ebola is a severe viral disease that can spread through direct contact with infected bodily fluids and has caused multiple outbreaks across Africa over the years. Public health experts often recommend early detection, isolation and travel-related precautions to limit transmission during outbreaks.
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