UAE Halts Tourist, Work Visas for Nine Nations Under 2026 Visa Strategy

The United Arab Emirates has announced a sweeping visa suspension impacting nine countries across Africa and Asia, under its 2026 visa policy framework. Citizens of these nations will no longer be able to apply for tourist or work visas, effective immediately or from early next year, depending on reports. Though those who already hold valid UAE visas can continue travelling, working, or residing, the suspension introduces significant uncertainty for many intending to move to or visit the UAE. Governments of the affected countries are watching closely. Businesses relying on migrant labour, remittance flows, tourism operators, and diplomatic channels are likely to feel pressure. Meanwhile, the UAE is seen as tightening its entry rules as part of its broader strategy on migration governance, health safety, and national security.

Countries Affected & Direct Impacts

The nine countries named in various media reports are Afghanistan, Libya, Yemen, Somalia, Lebanon, Bangladesh, Cameroon, Sudan, and Uganda. Citizens of these nations will be barred from applying for both tourist and work visas. However, these reports also mention that the suspension does not apply to those already inside the UAE with valid visas; those individuals are exempted. Job seekers, workers expecting to renew permits, or tourists from these countries face uncertainty. Travel agencies and businesses facilitating UAE visits may need to pause operations or redirect clients. Also, embassies and consulates may see a rise in queries and complaints as people scramble for clarity.

Motivations Behind the Policy Shift

Multiple sources suggest several underlying reasons behind the UAE’s decision. First, security is a big factor; concerns over identity fraud, forged documents, and illegal immigration are often cited in media reports. Second, health and pandemic-era protocols retain influence, especially for countries with weaker health infrastructure or a higher risk of infectious disease spread. Third, diplomatic relations and geopolitical tensions may also play a role in the selection of countries. Finally, migration control and documentation issues, such as inconsistent or unverifiable applicant backgrounds, seem to have triggered this move. The UAE is reportedly trying to ensure tighter control over who enters for work or tourism, to maintain internal security and public health standards.

Broader Consequences & What’s Next

This visa suspension could have wide ripple effects. Remittances from workers in Gulf countries are a lifeline for many families back home; the ban will disrupt that for many of the affected nations. Tourism flows, business contracts, and labour supply chains involving the UAE may also be disrupted. For countries like Bangladesh and Uganda, where many nationals depend on Gulf jobs, the impact could be especially severe. Diplomatically, affected countries may raise concerns or seek clarifications with the UAE authorities. While the ban is described as temporary, no clear timeline has been shared for review or lifting it. Observers expect that once security, documentation, or health issues are satisfactorily addressed, visa processes might resume. In the meantime, people impacted will have to adjust travel and employment plans, and governments may need to negotiate terms or seek exceptions.

The UAE’s suspension of tourist and work visas for citizens of nine countries marks a major tightening of its immigration policy under the 2026 visa strategy. While meant to address security, health, and migration concerns, the move places individuals, economies, and diplomatic ties under strain. For those already in the UAE with valid visas, there is no immediate danger, but for millions looking ahead, the uncertainty is real. As with many sweeping policy changes, the coming weeks and months will be crucial in understanding how long the suspension lasts, whether any carve‑outs will be offered, and what negotiations between the UAE and the affected countries will produce.