UAE Lifts Ebola-Related Entry Restrictions on Uganda

Ugandan nationals face easier entry into the UAE again. On 26 September 2026, 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), announced it was easing the precautionary entry measures that had applied to travellers from Uganda since June.

In short: The UAE has lifted the Ebola-related visa suspension on Ugandan nationals, imposed on 6 June 2026, after Uganda’s outbreak ended and the WHO monitoring period was completed. Restrictions remain in place for travellers from DR Congo and South Sudan, and the authorities say monitoring continues.

Why the Measures Were Imposed

The UAE suspended visa issuance for Ugandan nationals on 6 June 2026 as a precautionary step during Uganda’s Ebola outbreak earlier this year. Similar precautionary restrictions were applied to travellers from DR Congo and South Sudan.

What Changes for Ugandan Travellers

With the WHO monitoring period completed and the outbreak declared over, NCEMA said the measures for Uganda could be eased. If you are travelling from Uganda, the practical takeaway is to check the current entry rules before you fly — visa and entry policy can shift, and our Dubai tourist visa guide explains the standard requirements and application routes.

One important caveat: the 26 September announcement did not publish a detailed replacement entry protocol — for example, whether any health screening or documentation still applies at the border. Travellers should confirm the latest requirements with their airline or the nearest UAE mission before booking.

An Emirates passenger aircraft parked at a gate at Dubai airport at dusk
Uganda–UAE air links return to normal entry processing after the measures were lifted.

DR Congo and South Sudan Measures Stay in Place

The easing applies to Uganda only. Entry restrictions for travellers from the Democratic Republic of Congo and South Sudan remain in force, and UAE authorities say health monitoring continues. As reported by ATC News and News89, the decision reflects the differing outbreak status across the region rather than a blanket change.

Dubai skyline seen from a highway lined with UAE national flags
Entry rules differ by country of origin — restrictions still apply for DR Congo and South Sudan.

What to Do Before You Travel

Entry rules are one part of the picture — arrivals should also be ready for the usual airport formalities. Our Dubai International Airport guide walks through terminals, transfers and what to expect on arrival, and the Dubai safety tips for tourists page covers health and practical precautions worth knowing.

Frequently Asked Questions

When did the UAE lift the Ebola-related restrictions on Uganda?

On 26 September 2026, when NCEMA — together with MoHAP and the ICP — announced it was easing precautionary entry measures for Ugandan nationals.

Why were the restrictions lifted?

Uganda’s June 2026 Ebola outbreak has ended and the WHO monitoring period was completed, removing the basis for the precautionary measures.

Are travellers from DR Congo and South Sudan affected by the change?

No — restrictions for travellers from DR Congo and South Sudan remain in place, and UAE authorities continue to monitor the situation.

Do I still need health screening to enter from Uganda?

The announcement did not publish a detailed replacement entry protocol, so confirm current requirements with your airline or the nearest UAE mission before travelling.

When was the ban first imposed?

The visa suspension for Ugandan nationals began on 6 June 2026.