UAE Suspends New Tourist & Work Visas for 9 Countries: Full List and Implications
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has implemented a significant, immediate temporary suspension on the issuance of new tourist and work visas for citizens of nine specific countries across Africa and Asia. This move, part of broader anticipated visa policy changes for 2026, has created widespread uncertainty for potential travelers and workers. While not yet officially confirmed by a public statement, the suspension is based on reports of a confidential circular issued to immigration authorities.
Official Silence and Immediate Impact
A key aspect of this development is the lack of an official public announcement from UAE government bodies like the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Ports Security (ICP). The information has emerged through leaks and media reports citing an internal immigration circular. Despite the unofficial nature of the news, the suspension is reported to be effective immediately, with no specified end date, leaving applicants and businesses in a state of limbo.
Complete List of Affected Countries
The visa suspension specifically targets new visa applications from nationals of the following nine countries:
Afghanistan
Bangladesh
Cameroon
Lebanon
Libya
Somalia
Sudan
Uganda
Yemen
Citizens of these countries will be unable to apply for new entry permits for tourism or employment purposes for the foreseeable future.
What the Visa Suspension Means for You
It is crucial to understand the scope of this suspension to assess its impact correctly.
What is NOT Affected (Exemptions):
Existing Valid Visa Holders: Individuals who already hold a valid UAE residence visa, work permit, or tourist visa are unaffected. They can continue to live, work, and travel in and out of the UAE according to the terms of their existing visa.
Other Visa Types: The suspension, as reported, applies specifically to new tourist and work visas. The status of other visa categories, such as investor visas, student visas, or transit visas, remains unclear pending official clarification.
What IS Affected:
New Applications: Any first-time application for a UAE work permit or tourist visa from a citizen of the nine listed countries will be put on hold and will not be processed.
Renewals vs. New Applications: The key distinction is between renewing an existing visa and applying for a new one. If your current visa is expiring and you need to renew it, this is typically considered a renewal application. However, if you are applying for a visa for the first time, your application will be suspended. It is always best to consult with your PRO or immigration consultant.
Analyzing the Potential Reasons Behind the Suspension
While official reasons have not been provided, immigration and policy analysts point to several likely factors:
Security and Migration Control: The UAE may be implementing enhanced security screening procedures. The suspension could be a temporary measure to address concerns related to undocumented migration, visa overstays, or fraudulent documentation from certain origins.
Diplomatic and Geopolitical Factors: Visa policies often reflect the current state of bilateral relations. The suspension could be linked to ongoing diplomatic discussions or regional security considerations with the affected nations.
Policy Overhaul and System Updates: With significant visa reforms expected in 2026, this temporary halt could be a procedural step to manage application backlogs, integrate new digital systems, or recalibrate immigration quotas.
Wide-Ranging Implications of the Decision
The suspension has immediate and potential long-term consequences:
For Individuals: Travel plans for tourism, family visits, or medical treatment are disrupted. Aspiring workers from these countries have lost a major employment destination, impacting livelihoods and remittance flows back to their home countries.
For Businesses: Companies in the UAE that rely on talent from these nations for recruitment will face hiring delays and need to explore alternative labor markets.
For Economic Ties: The UAE is a hub for millions of expatriates, and remittances from workers are a significant source of income for many of the affected countries. A prolonged suspension could impact these economic linkages.
What to Do If You Are Affected
If you are a citizen of one of the nine countries:
Verify Your Current Visa Status: If you already have a valid UAE visa, you are likely safe to travel and reside as usual. Keep your Emirates ID and passport with the visa stamp accessible.
Postpone New Applications: Do not submit any new tourist or work visa applications until an official lifting of the suspension is announced.
Seek Official Information: Monitor the official websites of the UAE’s Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Ports Security (ICP) and the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) for any formal announcements or updates.
Consult Immigration Experts: For specific cases, especially regarding visa renewals, consult with a registered typing center or a reputable immigration consultant in the UAE for the most accurate guidance.
Conclusion: Awaiting Official Clarity
In summary, the UAE has reportedly enacted a temporary visa suspension for new tourist and work applications from nine specific countries. The primary rule of thumb is that existing visa holders are exempt. The reasons are believed to be rooted in security, diplomacy, and broader immigration reforms. Until the UAE authorities break their silence with an official statement, the exact duration, full scope, and detailed rationale behind this significant policy shift will remain subjects of speculation. All affected parties are advised to stay informed through official channels.
