UAE Halts Tourist, Work Visas for Citizens of Nine Countries

The United Arab Emirates has suspended the issuance of tourist and work visas to citizens of nine countries, according to a report by Travel and Tour World.

The affected countries are Libya, Sudan, Somalia, Cameroon, Uganda, Afghanistan, Yemen, Lebanon, and Bangladesh. The suspension means no new visa applications from these nations will be processed until further notice.

While Emirati authorities have not issued an official statement, the move is reportedly linked to security concerns, strained diplomatic relations, and lingering health measures initially introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The decision comes as the UAE continues to position itself as a major global hub for business and tourism, raising questions about how the restrictions may impact labor markets and travel flows from the affected countries.

Regional analysts suggest the suspension could also reflect growing political tensions in some of the listed countries, where instability and conflict remain ongoing challenges.

The UAE has yet to confirm when, or if, the suspension will be lifted.