Reports have emerged that the United Arab Emirates has temporarily suspended tourist and work visa applications for citizens of nine countries across Africa and Asia. However, UAE authorities have not officially confirmed the policy yet. Some affected countries’ diplomatic representatives have called the reports “false” or “inauthentic.”
Countries Reportedly Affected
According to several media outlets citing internal UAE immigration documents, the countries likely included in this temporary suspension are:
- Afghanistan
- Libya
- Yemen
- Somalia
- Lebanon
- Bangladesh
- Cameroon
- Sudan
- Uganda
Key Points and Clarifications
- The suspension is said to apply to new visa applications only. Nationals who already hold valid UAE visas are reportedly not affected they may continue living, working, or travelling under their current visas.
- No official UAE government announcement has confirmed the suspension. Some embassy officials (e.g. in Bangladesh, Uganda) have denied the ban.
- The directive appears to be part of policy adjustments for 2026 visa regulation in the UAE, linked to concerns about security risks, migration management, and identity/document verification.
Why It Might Be Happening
Although reasons have not been formally stated, analysts and reports suggest these possible motivations:
- Security & document fraud concerns: Issues with forged or insufficient documentation have been cited in past visa policy changes.
- Migration control: Preventing illegal immigration and better managing labour entry.
- Health & public safety: Some reports mention residual pandemic protocols or concerns over transmissible diseases, especially from countries with less stable public health infrastructure.
- Diplomatic / geopolitical considerations: Visa restrictions often reflect broader relationships or concerns between countries and host nation policies.
Implications
- For citizens of the nine countries, this may mean travel disruptions, halted job opportunities in the UAE, and delays in planned tourism or business visits.
- Remittances from expatriates and workers could be affected if hiring slows or new workers cannot migrate.
- Travel agencies, employers, visa consultants, and immigration services may face confusion until UAE clarifies the policy.
What Is Denied / Unclear
- Several affected countries have officially denied that any ban is in place. They say no notice has been received.
- It is not confirmed how long the suspension will last, whether renewals or visa category changes are affected, or whether it’s selective by region.
- No timeline has been provided for when the UAE will lift or revise the policy.
What to Do
- If you are from one of the affected countries, and have travel or visa plans for the UAE, check with your country’s UAE embassy or consulate for the latest official information.
- Employers or agencies planning to send workers should delay new visa application processing until official confirmation.
- Watch for an official UAE immigration announcement once it comes, that will clarify scope, duration, and affected visa types.
