UAE Temporarily Halts Tourist and Work Visa Applications for These Nations

Summary

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has announced a temporary suspension of tourist and work visa applications for citizens of nine countries starting in early 2026. This decision affects nationals from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Cameroon, Lebanon, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Uganda, and Yemen. The measure has been taken to address concerns related to visa overstays, irregular migration, and national security. Existing visa holders are not impacted, but new applications from these countries will face restrictions. This development has significant implications for workers, tourists, families, and the economies of the affected nations.

The Countries Affected

The visa suspension targets citizens from a mix of African and Asian countries, reflecting the UAE’s broader approach to managing immigration and national security. The affected countries are:

• Afghanistan – Historically, Afghan nationals have sought work and tourism opportunities in the UAE.

• Bangladesh – A major source of skilled and semi-skilled labor for the UAE.

• Cameroon – Part of the African workforce engaged in service and hospitality sectors.

• Lebanon – Lebanese nationals frequently travel to the UAE for business, tourism, and employment.

• Libya – Citizens have migrated for work opportunities in construction and trade sectors.

• Somalia – Somali nationals often work in domestic and service jobs in the UAE.

• Sudan – A source of labor for multiple industries including retail and construction.

• Uganda – Ugandan nationals contribute to the workforce in various low- and mid-skilled sectors.

• Yemen – Many Yemenis are employed in domestic work, retail, and small businesses.

These countries collectively represent a significant portion of the UAE’s expatriate and tourist populations from Asia and Africa.

Scope of the Suspension

The suspension affects two primary visa categories:

1. Tourist Visas

   • Citizens from the nine nations cannot apply for new tourist visas. This includes visitors planning leisure trips, family visits, or attending events in the UAE.

2. Work Visas

   • Employment-based visas are also temporarily suspended. This affects individuals seeking work in construction, hospitality, retail, domestic services, and other sectors that rely heavily on foreign labor.

In addition, some countries, such as Uganda, are specifically affected by long-term visa restrictions, meaning applications for extended work permits or residence visas will also be paused.

Notably:

• Nationals who already hold valid visas or residence permits in the UAE are not directly impacted.

• Special categories of short-term visas, such as urgent medical travel or official delegations, may still be considered on a case-by-case basis.

Reasons Behind the Suspension

While the UAE has not publicly detailed every reason for the ban, several factors appear to be driving the decision:

1. Visa Overstays and Irregular Migration

Overstaying visas has been a recurring issue in the UAE, particularly among workers and tourists from some of the affected countries. The government aims to curb unauthorized employment and ensure compliance with immigration rules.

2. National Security Concerns

Security considerations remain central to UAE immigration policy. With ongoing conflicts and instability in regions like the Middle East and parts of Africa, authorities are keen to prevent unlawful entry and potential security risks, including fraudulent documents or illegal employment.

3. Administrative Efficiency

Processing applications from countries with high rates of visa non-compliance requires additional resources. Temporarily suspending applications allows immigration authorities to focus on efficiency and improve screening procedures.

4. Economic and Labor Market Realignment

The UAE is undergoing strategic shifts toward a knowledge-based economy, prioritizing highly skilled professionals. Tightening visa policies for certain countries helps regulate labor market composition and ensures the availability of workers aligned with national economic goals.

5. Diplomatic Considerations

Bilateral relations and diplomatic negotiations may influence visa policies. While the UAE emphasizes security and compliance, the decision may also reflect broader diplomatic assessments regarding cooperation on migration and legal compliance.

Timeline of the Suspension

The rollout of the suspension is phased across the nine countries:

• Immediate Effect: For most affected countries, tourist and work visa applications have already been halted.

• January 2026: Long-term visa restrictions for countries like Uganda officially begin.

• Until Further Notice: The suspension has no defined end date, and authorities will review it periodically based on compliance, security assessments, and diplomatic considerations.

Impact on Individuals

Migrant Workers

Workers from affected nations make up a substantial portion of the UAE’s labor force. The suspension prevents new entrants, affecting opportunities for employment in construction, domestic services, hospitality, and retail. Many families rely on remittances sent from these workers, meaning economic impacts extend beyond the UAE’s borders.

Tourists and Families

Individuals planning leisure trips, family visits, or cultural travel will face challenges obtaining visas. This disrupts travel plans and may impact tourism-related businesses such as hotels, restaurants, and tour services.

Students and Professionals

Although the primary focus is tourist and work visas, students or professionals intending to obtain long-term residence may also experience delays, particularly if long-term visa categories are impacted.

Economic Implications

For Affected Countries

• Reduced Remittances: Many of these countries rely on remittances from expatriates working in the UAE. New visa restrictions could reduce future inflows.

• Limited Job Opportunities: Citizens seeking work abroad may have fewer pathways, potentially increasing local unemployment pressures.

For the UAE

• Labor Market Adjustments: Industries dependent on low- to mid-skilled labor could face shortages.

• Tourism Revenue: Although the number of tourists from the affected countries is not the largest segment, family visits and cultural tourism could experience a dip in revenue.

Diplomatic and Social Implications

• Diplomatic Engagement: Governments of affected nations are likely to seek clarification and potentially negotiate exceptions for citizens with verified employment or urgent travel needs.

• Social Impact: Families separated by visa restrictions may face emotional and logistical challenges.

• Humanitarian Concerns: Blanket restrictions may unintentionally affect individuals who comply with legal and security requirements, including students, professionals, and medical travelers.

Comparisons with Previous Visa Policies

The UAE has historically implemented visa restrictions for certain nationalities on temporary or specific grounds. What sets the 2026 suspension apart is:

• Number of Countries Affected: Nine countries simultaneously face restrictions.

• Scope: Both tourist and work visas, including long-term categories, are included.

• Duration: The suspension is open-ended, with no definitive end date announced.

Possible Scenarios Moving Forward

• Gradual Relaxation: Authorities may reinstate visas for skilled professionals while maintaining restrictions for other categories.

• Case-by-Case Screening: Applicants may be allowed based on employer sponsorship, financial stability, and security clearance.

• Long-Term Policy: If underlying issues remain unresolved, restrictions could persist, affecting migration patterns and labor markets.

Guidance for Affected Applicants

• Check Existing Visa Validity: Ensure your current visa or residence permit is up to date.

• Avoid Overstaying: Violations can further complicate future applications for UAE or other destinations.

• Explore Alternatives: Consider migration or employment opportunities in other Gulf countries with open visa policies.

• Stay Updated: Follow announcements from UAE immigration authorities and your home country’s foreign ministry for accurate guidance