No More UAE Visas for Ugandans in 2026 | UAE Announces Visa Ban for Ugandans – Full Details Inside
- Afri Careers
- Sep 18
- 1 min read
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has announced that, starting in 2026, it will suspend the issuance of tourist and work visas to Ugandan nationals. The UAE visa ban on Ugandans 2026 is expected to disrupt both travel and employment opportunities for thousands of citizens who rely on the Gulf state for jobs and business.
According to an immigration circular, the suspension is said to be temporary but will remain indefinite until further notice. Uganda is among nine countries affected, alongside Cameroon, Sudan, and Somalia.
Although UAE authorities have not released an official explanation, reports suggest the ban is linked to security concerns and broader geopolitical considerations.
This is not the first time such restrictions have been imposed. In 2022, the UAE restricted 30-day visit visas for Ugandans and nationals from over 20 countries due to concerns that some visitors were overstaying or misusing short-term permits to seek unauthorized employment.
The UAE is home to an estimated 100,000 Ugandans legally employed in sectors such as domestic service, construction, hospitality, and beauty. These industries heavily rely on migrant workers, meaning the ban could have a serious impact on both Ugandan workers and UAE employers.
The suspension could limit new job opportunities and make it difficult for families relying on remittances from relatives working in the UAE.
It remains unclear whether Ugandans currently living and working in the UAE will face challenges when renewing their work permits or residence visas. For now, the directive primarily affects new applicants for tourist and work visas.
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