Arrivals from three African countries subject to new precautionary screening measures.
Dubai: The UAE has announced a set of additional precautionary measures for travellers arriving from three African countries, as part of efforts to enhance national preparedness against potential Ebola virus outbreaks.
The measures, jointly issued by the National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority (NCEMA) and the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP), apply to arrivals from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Uganda, and South Sudan.
Authorities said the decision forms part of the country’s preventive and proactive strategy to respond to developments related to the Ebola virus and protect public health.
Under the new measures, all new visas for nationals of the three countries, including visit visas, will be suspended.
Entry into the UAE will also be restricted for travellers coming from the affected countries, including those transiting through third countries before arriving in the Emirates.
Travellers who have spent more than 21 consecutive days outside the listed countries before arriving in the UAE will be exempt from the restrictions and allowed entry, according to the authorities.
The measures are set to take effect at 1 p.m. on Saturday, 6 June 2026, and may be extended depending on developments in the global health situation.
Despite the restrictions, cargo operations between the UAE and the three countries will continue as normal. Transit flights will also remain unaffected, ensuring the continued movement of goods and international air traffic.
The announcement comes as governments worldwide continue to monitor Ebola-related developments in parts of Africa.
The disease, which causes severe viral haemorrhagic fever, has led to heightened surveillance and preparedness measures in several countries whenever outbreaks occur.
National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority and Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security said they will continue to closely monitor global health developments in coordination with local and international partners.
Authorities added that they will assess any potential implications for other countries and introduce further measures when necessary, based on approved health standards and risk assessments.
