The Ugandan government has officially responded after the United Arab Emirates (UAE) announced it will tighten visa rules for Ugandan citizens beginning January 2026.
Oryem Henry Okello, Uganda’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs in charge of international cooperation, confirmed that the new measures do not amount to a total travel ban.
He clarified that Ugandans will still be able to visit the UAE, but there will be stricter screening and a halt on the issuance of long-term visas for certain categories of travelers.
“According to our ambassador in the UAE, there is no total ban. There will only be restrictions, mainly targeting people considered at risk of overstaying or breaking the law,” Okello explained.
The UAE decision follows concerns over rising cases of visa overstays and illegal activities involving some foreign nationals.
The new restrictions are part of a wider policy targeting nine countries, including Afghanistan, Libya, Yemen, Somalia, Lebanon, Bangladesh, Cameroon, and Sudan.
Okello said the government will monitor the situation but will not immediately engage in negotiations to lift the restrictions. He encouraged Ugandans traveling to the UAE to strictly follow immigration rules to avoid further restrictions.
The UAE remains one of the most popular destinations for Ugandans seeking employment and business opportunities. The new rules are expected to affect many migrant workers, with some worried it could reduce job opportunities and slow down labor migration.
Ugandan officials have promised to work with UAE authorities to ensure law-abiding travelers continue to access short-term visas and maintain bilateral relations between the two countries.
