UAE suspends new visas for nationals of three countries as part of Ebola virus preparedness measures

Dubai: The UAE announced that it has intensified precautionary measures on travellers coming from three African nations, as part of the country's efforts to enhance national readiness amid the global concern over possible Ebola virus outbreaks.

The steps were announced simultaneously on social media by the National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority (NCEMA) and the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP).

Countries Affected

The new restrictions apply to travellers from:

• Democratic Republic of the Congo

• Uganda

• South Sudan

According to authorities, the decision is part of the UAE's proactive strategy to protect public health and respond to global developments related to the Ebola virus.

Key Measures Announced

Under the new regulations:

All new visas, including visit visas for nationals of the three countries will be suspended.
Travelers from these countries will not be permitted to enter the UAE.
The limitations also apply to passengers who fly through an additional stop or two prior to arriving in the UAE.

Exemption for Certain Travellers

Authorities clarified that travellers who have remained outside the affected countries for more than 21 consecutive days before arriving in the UAE will be exempt from the restrictions and allowed entry.

When Will the Rules Take Effect?

The measures will come into force at:

• Date: Saturday, June 6, 2026

• Time: 1:00 PM UAE time

Officials noted that the restrictions may be extended depending on developments in the global health situation.

Cargo and Transit Flights to Continue

However, the UAE said on: The travel restrictions are:

All UAE and three-country cargo operations will proceed as usual.
Transit flights will remain operational.
Air Traffic movement and International trade will not affected here.

Global Monitoring of Ebola Developments

This comes as countries around the world continue with monitoring of Ebola situations in sections of Africa.
Ebola is a virulent virus that produces haemorrhagic fever in humans and causes governments to tighten surveillance and take action against it whenever an outbreak occurs.

Authorities to Continue Assessment

NCEMA and ICP said they will continue to closely monitor global health developments in coordination with local and international partners.

Authorities added that they will:

Assess potential risks involving other countries.
Review global health updates regularly.
Introduce additional measures if required based on approved health standards and risk assessments.

The UAE reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding public health while maintaining essential trade and transportation services.