Uganda’s Ministry of Internal Affairs has announced the commencement of a visa waiver agreement between the Republic of Uganda and the United Arab Emirates, paving the way for visa-free travel for specified passport holders between the two nations.
In a public statement issued on February 17, 2026, the Ministry’s Department of National Citizenship and Immigration Control confirmed that the bilateral agreement, which was signed on May 7, 2025, officially took effect on February 10, 2026.
Under the new arrangement, nationals of the United Arab Emirates holding diplomatic, special, ordinary, and service passports are exempt from obtaining a visa to enter and stay in Uganda for up to 90 days, subject to standard immigration procedures.
These include presenting a valid passport and proof of onward or return travel where applicable.
For Ugandan nationals, the waiver applies to holders of diplomatic and service passports, who may now travel to the UAE without a visa for a maximum of 90 days within any 180-day period. However, the Ministry clarified that holders of ordinary Ugandan passports remain subject to the routine visa application procedures for entry into the UAE.
The Ministry said the agreement reflects the growing partnership between Uganda and the UAE in areas of mutual interest and is aimed at strengthening diplomatic and official ties. It emphasized that while facilitating legitimate travel, authorities will continue to uphold national security and immigration standards.
The statement was signed by Simon Peter Mundeyi, Spokesperson and Head of Public Relations at the Ministry of Internal Affairs.
The visa waiver is expected to ease official travel and deepen bilateral cooperation between Kampala and Abu Dhabi, as both countries continue to expand collaboration in trade, investment, and diplomatic engagement.
