Ugandans seeking to travel to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) can now apply for new visas after the Gulf nation lifted restrictions imposed over Ebola concerns in June 2026.
The UAE announced the changes on Wednesday, November 11, 2026, easing travel restrictions for Ugandan nationals while retaining health precautions.
The National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority (NCEMA) announced the decision alongside the Ministry of Health and Prevention and the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security.
Under the new rules, Ugandans can obtain visas and enter the UAE if at least 21 days have passed since they left Uganda.
The condition means travellers who recently departed Uganda must complete the required waiting period before entering the Gulf nation.
The UAE introduced the visa suspension in June 2026 following concerns about Ebola. The decision affected Ugandans seeking new visas to travel to the country.
The revised measures also provide exemptions for students, embassy employees and holders of diplomatic and special passports.
Ugandan students who enrolled in UAE educational institutions before June 2026 can return to continue their studies. Their family members can also enter, subject to approved health procedures.
Administrative employees at Uganda's embassy in the UAE who hold ordinary passports will also qualify for entry, alongside their families.
Ugandan diplomatic and special passport holders can enter under health procedures established for exempted travellers.
The authorities will assess humanitarian and medical cases individually.
Ugandans travelling to the UAE for treatment must provide approved medical reports showing their diagnosis, the hospital or health facility where they intend to receive care and the date treatment will begin.
However, the UAE has maintained its existing Ebola-related restrictions on travellers from the Democratic Republic of the Congo and South Sudan.
The authorities said they would continue monitoring the disease situation in both countries before reviewing the measures.
The UAE remains an important destination for Ugandans seeking employment, education, business opportunities and medical services.
