KAMPALA, August 24, 2026 — Uganda and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have agreed to work closely towards resolving travel restrictions currently affecting Ugandan travellers to the Gulf state, with both sides describing the outstanding issues as technical in nature.
Uganda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Adonia Ayebare, held a telephone conversation on Monday with Sheikh Shakhboot bin Nahyan Al Nahyan, the UAE Minister of State for African Affairs, during which the two officials discussed the restrictions affecting Ugandans travelling to the UAE.
According to Ambassador Ayebare, the two sides acknowledged that the restrictions are technical in nature and affirmed their commitment to collaborate closely to address and resolve the outstanding issues.
The development signals renewed diplomatic engagement between Kampala and Abu Dhabi over a matter that has affected Ugandan travellers, businesses and families with links to the UAE.
UAE has previously imposed various travel and visa restrictions affecting Ugandan nationals, most recently over the ebola outbreak in DR Congo, prompting diplomatic efforts by the Ugandan government to seek clarification and a resolution. Recent reports have also highlighted concerns over restrictions on Ugandan passport holders travelling to the UAE.
The latest engagement comes as Uganda seeks to deepen its economic and diplomatic relations with the UAE. The two countries maintain extensive commercial, investment, labour and people-to-people links.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has continued to prioritize economic diplomacy, including strengthening Uganda’s relations with key partners in the Middle East. The ministry’s current leadership under Ambassador Ayebare has also emphasized strategic engagement with foreign governments.
While no immediate lifting of the restrictions was announced, the commitment by both sides to address the outstanding technical issues could pave the way for further consultations and, potentially, improved travel arrangements for Ugandan nationals.
The discussions are expected to continue through diplomatic channels as Kampala and Abu Dhabi work towards a mutually acceptable resolution.
