The United Arab Emirates has lifted Ebola-related entry restrictions on Ugandan nationals, allowing for the resumption of normal travel and labor links between the two countries. This decision was made by the UAE's National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority, in coordination with the Ministry of Health and Prevention and the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security. The move comes after Uganda completed its internationally established monitoring period following the end of its Ebola outbreak.
The UAE had introduced precautionary measures on June 6, 2026, suspending new visa issuance for nationals of Uganda, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and South Sudan to strengthen preparedness against Ebola. However, the restrictions on the Democratic Republic of Congo and South Sudan remain in effect due to the ongoing epidemiological situation in those countries. Uganda's Foreign Affairs Minister, Adonia Ayebare, confirmed the development on his social media account, stating that it followed discussions with his UAE counterpart, Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
The easing of restrictions is significant for Uganda's labor export industry, which heavily relies on the UAE market. The UAE is a major destination for Ugandan migrant workers employed in various sectors, including domestic work, hospitality, and construction. According to the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development, between 100,000 and 160,000 Ugandans live and work in the UAE, mainly in Dubai, Sharjah, and Abu Dhabi.
The workers in the UAE send an estimated 260 million to 350 million US dollars in direct remittances to Uganda each year, equivalent to about one trillion to 1.3 trillion shillings. The June restrictions had affected licensed external labor recruitment agencies in Uganda, which reported slowdowns as prospective workers waited for visa processing and travel arrangements to resume.
For Ugandans affected by the restrictions, the UAE announcement has generated cautious optimism. Moses Bwambale, a migrant worker affected by the measures, described the decision as significant for Uganda's economy and labor export sector. Tom Araali, another affected Ugandan, expressed eagerness to resume activities, stating that workers are stuck and hope the restrictions will be lifted soon.
Ahmed Mugabe, who operates an external recruitment firm, welcomed the development but noted uncertainty over air travel remains. The UAE authorities stated that the easing of Uganda's measures reflects the latest public health developments and that future precautionary measures will remain subject to the assessed level of risk.
The decision to lift travel restrictions on Uganda is a significant development for Uganda's economy, labor export sector, trade, and bilateral cooperation. The UAE authorities will continue monitoring regional and international developments relating to Ebola, and precautionary measures will be reviewed and adjusted according to changing risk assessments and public health standards.
Key points
- The UAE has lifted Ebola-related entry restrictions on Ugandan nationals.
- The restrictions were imposed on June 6, 2026, as part of measures to strengthen preparedness against Ebola.
- The easing of restrictions is significant for Uganda's labor export industry, which relies heavily on the UAE market.
