UAE visa ban: Did United Arab Emirates suspend tourist and work visas for nine countries? Here's what we know

The United Arab Emirates has reportedly temporarily halted the issuance of tourist and work visas for citizens of nine countries spanning Africa and Asia, reported TOI. The 2026 UAE visa ban reflects evolving concerns over security, health, and migration governance. However, there has been no official confirmation from the UAE government or the official immigration office.

Which countries are reportedly part of ban list?

• Afghanistan
• Libya
• Yemen
• Somalia
• Lebanon
• Bangladesh
• Cameroon
• Sudan
• Uganda

As per reports, from 2026, citizens of nine countries are barred from applying for both tourist visas and work permits in the UAE. The restriction will remain in place until further notice, with no timeline announced for review or reversal.

However, reports highlighted that this is a visa ban, not a travel ban. Nationals from the listed countries who already hold valid UAE visas are unaffected and may continue to live and work in the country legally.


For clarity on visa type, allowed stay duration, and eligibility, travellers should refer to the following official sources of the UAE:

• Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP)
• General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs- Dubai (GDRFA)
• Dubai Tourism Website
• Abu Dhabi Tourism Website

For those eligible for visa-free or visa-on-arrival entry, the duration of stay depends on the traveller’s nationality. The standard categories are 30-day or 90-day stays. Visitors are advised to check the exact number of days allowed for their country using the MOFA tool.