(Credit - UAE authorities)
UAE Visa Suspension Takes Effect June 6 for Nationals of Three Ebola-Affected Countries
The UAE has announced a UAE visa suspension on new visa issuance for nationals of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Uganda, and South Sudan, effective June 6, 2026, one day from today. The measure, described by UAE authorities as an additional precautionary step linked to Ebola risk in those countries, directly affects anyone from those three nationalities currently planning to apply for a new UAE visit visa.
Visit Visas Included, Measure May Be Extended Depending on Outbreak Assessment
UAE authorities confirmed the suspension covers visit visas and could be extended, though no fixed end date has been specified. The decision reflects a public-health precaution rather than a blanket travel ban, cargo flights to and from the affected countries remain fully operational, signalling that trade and logistics channels are not disrupted.
The announcement does not specify whether the restriction applies strictly by nationality, by recent travel history, or both. Clarity on whether existing valid visas, residency permits, transit arrangements, or humanitarian cases fall within the scope of the suspension has not been provided in the official statement. Travellers and employers are advised to seek confirmation directly from UAE authorities before making bookings or mobilisation plans.
Immediate Impact: Airlines, HR Teams and Travel Agents Must Re-Check Eligibility Now
For UAE residents and businesses, the practical consequence is immediate: anyone arranging short-term entry for DRC, Ugandan, or South Sudanese nationals, whether for client visits, short-term contracts, or family travel, should pause new visa applications as of today. Airlines and travel agents operating UAE routes involving these nationalities may need to re-validate passenger eligibility before ticketing. The General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) Dubai and the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) are the relevant bodies for visa status queries and application guidance.
- Effective Date: June 6, 2026
- Nationalities Affected: Democratic Republic of Congo, Uganda, South Sudan
- Visa Types Covered: New visit visas (existing visa status not confirmed in official statement)
- Cargo Flights: Unaffected, trade and logistics routes continue normally
The UAE’s suspension of new visas for nationals of three Ebola-affected countries takes effect on June 6, 2026, with visit visas explicitly included and the possibility of an extension tied to ongoing outbreak assessments. Cargo operations remain unaffected, preserving supply chain continuity. Travellers, HR mobility teams, and travel managers should contact GDRFA Dubai or ICP directly to confirm the status of pending or existing applications before proceeding with any bookings.*Source: Dubai Eye 103.8 / UAE authorities. WAM has not issued a separate wire at time of publication.*
