By Authorities in both the United Arab Emirates and Uganda have firmly denied recent claims that Ugandan nationals are being banned from obtaining visas to the UAE, amid confusion fuelled by reports circulating in media and social media.
What sparked the allegations
Earlier reports suggested that beginning in 2026, the UAE would impose restrictions on visa issuance to Ugandans, particularly long-term visas, citing concerns over overstays, immigration abuse, and criminality. These reports alleged a “visa ban” or “blacklisting”.
What envoys said
Ambassador Abdalla Hassan Al Shamsi, the UAE envoy to Uganda, publicly dismissed the reports as false.
He stated that “what is circulating out there is false.” He indicated that there has been no official communication from his government confirming a visa ban or any blanket restriction on Ugandan nationals.
The ambassador clarified that while visa applications may be denied in some cases, such decisions are based on individual circumstances, not nationality.
Uganda’s Ambassador to the UAE, Zaake Wanume Kibedi, echoed similar sentiments.
He said there has been “no official statement from the Government of the United Arab Emirates communicating restrictions or a ban on visa issuance to Ugandan nationals.”
He described the allegations as unfounded, emphasising that each visa application is assessed individually, according to the UAE’s immigration laws and regulations.
Trafficking concerns were also acknowledged. Kibedi noted that there are ongoing human-trafficking investigations in the UAE involving Ugandans, but said details are being handled sensitively to avoid compromising legal processes.
He urged Ugandans to rely only on official sources for information, to ensure application documentation is complete, and to avoid unverified intermediaries.
However, reports remain in some media that Uganda is included among countries facing visa restrictions in 2026.
What this means for Ugandans
There is currently no confirmed visa ban or blanket restriction on Ugandans travelling to or applying for visas in the UAE.
Ugandans applying for visas should ensure their applications are complete, meet all immigration requirements, and avoid overstays.
Those concerned about the credibility of reports are advised to consult official sources, such as embassies, ministries of foreign affairs, or immigration authorities.
