The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has formally announced a suspension of work and tourist visa applications from Ugandan nationals, effective January 2026. Uganda joins eight other countries including Afghanistan, Libya, Yemen, and Sudan on this temporary ban list, communicated through an immigration circular in Abu Dhabi.
Officials cite national security concerns, intelligence reports of visa misuse by trafficking networks, and ongoing diplomatic and labor disputes related to migrant worker treatment and repatriation as reasons for the measure. This ban follows a recent BBC investigation exposing Ugandan-led sex trafficking operations in Dubai, highlighting exploitation of vulnerable women in UAE.
The restriction impacts thousands of Ugandan migrant workers employed in domestic work, security, and other sectors, and disrupts trade as many Ugandan merchants rely on imports from Dubai. While existing visa holders remain unaffected, the temporary ban brings uncertainty and economic challenges for Uganda, where remittances from Gulf countries are crucial to household incomes and the national economy.