UAE Halts Tourist and Work Visas for These 9 Countries
- Publish date: Monday، 22 September 2025 Reading time: 1 min read
Tourist and work visa applications paused for nine nations as part of new immigration rules.
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The UAE just hit pause on tourist and work visa applications for nine countries, shaking up travel and job plans. A new immigration circular revealed that citizens of Uganda, Sudan, Somalia, Cameroon, Libya, Afghanistan, Yemen, Lebanon, and Bangladesh won’t be able to apply for these visas until further notice.
Why the Ban?
No official word yet, but reports hint at security concerns, strained diplomatic ties, and leftover health protocols from the pandemic era. This isn’t the first time the UAE has rolled out such restrictions—similar rules have popped up before for other nations.
Who’s Affected?
If you’re already in the UAE with a valid visa, you’re safe. The freeze only affects fresh applications. But for those abroad eyeing Dubai or Abu Dhabi for work or a quick holiday, the doors are temporarily shut.
Not a Travel Ban
Important to note: this is a visa ban, not a full-on travel ban. That means it’s about stopping new applications, not kicking out people already here.