The United Arab Emirates has announced the easing of precautionary entry measures imposed on nationals of the Republic of Uganda in June 2026 in response to the Ebola virus outbreak.
The decision, announced on Saturday by the 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), follows continued assessment of the epidemiological situation and reflects the latest public health developments, including the end of the Ebola outbreak in Uganda.
However, the precautionary measures currently applicable to the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and South Sudan will remain in effect in light of the ongoing epidemiological situation in those countries.
The visa suspension on the three countries came into effect on June 6, 2026, to strengthen the UAE’s preparedness and response to developments related to the Ebola virus.
Uganda’s Health Minister, Dr. Chris Baryomunsi, officially declared the country Ebola-free in late July 2026, following the successful containment of an outbreak traced to imported cases from the DRC. The outbreak resulted in 20 infections, including 15 Congolese nationals, four health workers, and one driver. Two people died, while 18 recovered and were discharged.
The successful containment was credited to rigorous contact tracing, institutional quarantine, and close cross-border collaboration with the DRC, which prevented wider community transmission.
The DRC continues to battle its worst Ebola outbreak ever, with more than 7,000 cases recorded and nearly 3,400 deaths since the outbreak was officially detected in mid-May 2026. The World Health Organization has warned that the virus is “growing exponentially” in the north and east of the country, with the spread covering an area larger than France.
A vaccine trial is underway in the DRC to assess the effectiveness of the Ervebo vaccine against the Bundibugyo species of the virus, which is currently circulating.
NCEMA, MoHAP, and ICP stressed that the UAE continues to closely monitor regional and international developments related to the Ebola virus. Precautionary measures will remain subject to ongoing review and will be adjusted as necessary in accordance with evolving risk assessments and approved public health standards.
The easing of restrictions on Uganda is expected to restore normal travel and business links between the two countries, providing relief to Ugandan nationals who travel to the UAE for work, trade, and tourism.
