The decision was announced on Saturday, September 26, 2026, by the UAE’s 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). (Khaleej Times)
According to the authorities, the decision follows continued assessment of the epidemiological situation and Uganda’s completion of the internationally established monitoring period following the Ebola outbreak.
Uganda’s Health Minister, Dr Chris Baryomunsi, officially declared the country Ebola-free at the end of July after health authorities completed the required monitoring period without further transmission. (Khaleej Times)
UAE Restrictions Were Introduced in June
The UAE introduced precautionary entry measures affecting nationals of Uganda, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and South Sudan on June 6, 2026, as part of measures to strengthen preparedness and response to the Ebola virus situation. (Khaleej Times)
The measures included the suspension of new visas and restrictions on entry from the affected countries.
With Uganda’s Ebola outbreak now considered over, the UAE has moved to ease the measures applicable to Ugandan nationals.
Restrictions Remain for DRC and South Sudan
While measures affecting Uganda have been eased, precautionary measures concerning the Democratic Republic of Congo and South Sudan remain in effect.
The UAE authorities said the continued restrictions are linked to the ongoing epidemiological situation and will remain subject to review as new developments emerge. (Khaleej Times)
NCEMA, MoHAP and ICP said they will continue monitoring regional and international developments related to Ebola and adjust precautionary measures where necessary based on risk assessments and approved public health standards.
What This Means for Ugandan Travellers
The easing of the measures marks a significant change for Ugandan nationals who had been affected by the UAE’s Ebola-related entry restrictions.
Travellers are, however, advised to confirm the latest visa and entry requirements with UAE authorities or their airline before making travel arrangements, as immigration and public-health requirements can be updated.
The UAE had initially introduced the measures as a precautionary response to the Ebola situation in the region. (Khaleej Times)
The latest decision follows the conclusion of Uganda’s Ebola outbreak monitoring period and reflects the UAE authorities’ assessment of the changing public-health situation.
Source: Khaleej Times / UAE authorities. (Khaleej Times)
