UAE Eases Precautionary Entry Measures for Uganda Nationals After Ebola Outbreak Ends

Abu Dhabi, 26 September 2026 — The United Arab Emirates has eased the precautionary entry measures that were introduced in June 2026 for nationals of the Republic of Uganda. The decision follows the official end of the Ebola outbreak in Uganda after the completion of the internationally required monitoring period.

The announcement was made by the National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority (NCEMA), in coordination with the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) and the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP).

Background of the Original Measures

In early June 2026, UAE authorities suspended the issuance of all new visas (including visit visas) for nationals of Uganda, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), and South Sudan. Entry restrictions were also applied to travellers arriving from these countries, including those transiting through other destinations, unless they had spent more than 21 consecutive days outside the listed countries before arriving in the UAE. Cargo flights and transit operations continued as normal. These steps were taken as part of the UAE’s proactive efforts to strengthen national preparedness against the Ebola virus.

Why the Change for Uganda?

The latest decision is based on continuous assessment of the epidemiological situation and the latest public health developments. Uganda has completed the internationally established monitoring period following the end of its Ebola outbreak, allowing the UAE to ease the related entry restrictions for Ugandan nationals.

Restrictions Still in Place

The precautionary measures currently applicable to the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the Republic of South Sudan remain in effect due to the ongoing epidemiological situation in those countries.

Ongoing Monitoring

NCEMA, MoHAP, and ICP confirmed that the UAE continues to closely monitor regional and international developments related to the Ebola virus. All precautionary measures remain subject to ongoing review and will be adjusted as necessary according to evolving risk assessments and approved public health standards.

The UAE reaffirmed its commitment to protecting public health while ensuring that measures remain proportionate to the assessed level of risk and responsive to changes in the epidemiological situation.