9th of June, 2026

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has suspended all new visa issuances—including tourist, visit, and entry permits—for citizens of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Uganda, and South Sudan. Announced jointly by the National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority (NCEMA) and the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP), the directive officially took effect on Saturday, June 6, 2026, at 1:00 PM Dubai time.

The temporary ban acts as a strict public health measure to insulate UAE borders against the spread of an intensifying Ebola virus outbreak in Central and East Africa.Impact on Travelers and Flight OperationsThe travel guidelines issued by NCEMA and enforced by major airlines like Emirates outline specific border protocols:Entry Restrictions: Anyone traveling directly from or transiting through the DRC, Uganda, or South Sudan will be denied entry into the UAE.The 21-Day Rule: Travelers originating from these nations can only enter the Emirates if they prove they have spent at least 21 consecutive days—the maximum incubation period for the Ebola virus—in a non-restricted third country prior to arrival.

Transit Operations: Standard airport transit routes through UAE hubs remain operational for passengers flying onward to final international destinations.Cargo Services: Essential cargo flights between the UAE and the three nations continue uninterrupted to maintain global supply lines.

Public Health ContextThough a traveler who visited the UAE was later diagnosed with Ebola upon arriving in Uganda, the UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) confirmed that no Ebola cases have been recorded within the UAE.The heightened boundary controls are largely driven by global health surveillance surrounding the Bundibugyo strain driving the current African outbreak.

This specific strain is highly challenging because there is currently no licensed vaccine available to combat it. Simultaneously, the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued a strict travel advisory urging its own citizens to avoid all non-essential travel to Uganda, South Sudan, and the DRC.

~ Copied