UAE suspends tourist, work visas for nine countries, including Afghanistan, Bangladesh | Here's why

The restriction does not affect those holding UAE visas currently.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has temporarily suspended the issuance of tourist and work visas for citizens of nine nations, effective immediately.

This restriction is part of the UAE's broader visa policies for 2026. Although, it does not affect those holding UAE visas currently.

Countries on the UAE visa ban list

According to a confidential immigration circular accessed by media outlets, the UAE has imposed a temporary suspension on new visa applications from the following countries - Afghanistan, Libya, Yemen, Somalia, Lebanon, Bangladesh, Cameroon, Sudan and Uganda.

Citizens of these nations will be barred from applying for both tourist visas and work permits in the UAE as of 2026. The policy will remain in effect until further notice, with no announced timeline for reassessment or reversal, according to a report by The Times of India.

Why has the ban been imposed?

Although authorities have not issued an official explanation, analysts, according to a Times of India report, suggest the suspension is driven by a combination of safety, political, and health concerns. Nationals of these countries cannot submit new tourist or work visa applications, but those with existing valid visas may continue to enter, live, and work in the UAE.