UAE Visa Ban 2026: The United Arab Emirates has suspended the issuance of new tourist and work visas for citizens of nine countries. The temporary UAE visa ban,
AD
reportedly outlined in an internal immigration circular, takes effect from 2026 and has ended up in sparking widespread debate over its economic and social consequences.
Countries on the UAE visa ban list
As per reports, the UAE visa ban applies to both work permits and tourist visa applications from the following nine nations:- Afghanistan
- Libya
- Yemen
- Somalia
- Lebanon
- Bangladesh
- Cameroon
- Sudan
- Uganda
Who will be impacted?
The suspension only affects new applicants. Citizens from these countries who already hold valid UAE visas will not be impacted and can continue to live, work or travel legally within the Emirates. Authorities have clarified that this is a UAE visa ban, not a full travel ban.Why has the UAE imposed the visa ban?
The UAE government has not yet issued an official statement, but analysts suggest several factors behind the decision, TOI reported:- Security concerns such as document fraud, identity theft and risks linked to unlawful migration.
- Diplomatic and geopolitical tensions between the UAE and some of the affected nations.
- Public health protocols, with residual COVID-19-related concerns still influencing immigration policy.
- Migration management and digital reforms, as the UAE works to strengthen visa verification and digitize processes.
What will be the economic and social impact of the UAE visa ban?
The UAE visa suspension is expected to have these possible consequences:- Many jobseekers from countries like Bangladesh, Sudan and Cameroon, who traditionally form a large part of the UAE’s construction and service workforce, face blocked opportunities.
- Families in affected countries might feel the impact of reduced overseas income flows.
- Airlines, hotels and travel agencies depending on tourists from these regions may witness a decline in bookings.
