Abu Dhabi — The Embassy of the Republic of Uganda in the United Arab Emirates has denied reports circulating in sections of the media that allege Ugandan nationals have been banned from obtaining visas to the UAE.
In a statement issued by the mission, His Excellency Ambassador Zaake Kibedi, Head of Mission at the Ugandan Embassy in Abu Dhabi, clarified that no official communication from the Government of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has been made regarding a visa ban or blacklisting of Ugandan nationals.
“The allegations of a visa ban are unfounded. Visa applications are processed in accordance with the immigration laws and regulations of the host country, and each application is assessed on its own merit,” Ambassador Kibedi said. “Any denial of a visa is based entirely on individual circumstances, not nationality.”
The envoy urged Ugandans in the UAE and those seeking to travel to rely on official sources of information and to follow proper immigration procedures. He highlighted key steps for Ugandans, including submitting complete visa applications, avoiding unverified third-party agents, and ensuring timely renewal or regularization of their visas to prevent overstay penalties.
Listen to Amb Kibedi’s explanation here
Ambassador Kibedi acknowledged that there is an ongoing case of human trafficking under investigation by UAE authorities but said details would be provided at a later stage to avoid jeopardizing the process.
Strengthening Bilateral Ties
The Ambassador warned that spreading false information could damage the growing bilateral relations between Uganda and the UAE, which he said have brought significant economic and commercial benefits to both nations.
The number of Ugandans living and working in the UAE has grown from 40,000 in 2018 to 160,000 in 2025, boosting annual remittances from US$50 million to US$350 million over the same period.
The UAE became Uganda’s leading export market in October 2024, with bilateral trade now valued at US$2.85 billion. Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) from the UAE has increased tenfold, from US$300 million in 2018 to US$3 billion in 2024. More than 100 companies from Uganda have established businesses in the UAE.
Ambassador Kibedi reaffirmed the Embassy’s commitment to supporting Ugandans in the UAE and maintaining strong diplomatic ties between the two countries.