ABU DHABI, ( HAN) – The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has added Somalia to its list of countries whose citizens will be temporarily banned from obtaining tourist and work visas in 2026, according to a new directive issued by the UAE’s Immigration Department.
Somalia is among several nations facing the visa restriction, which UAE authorities say is temporary and may be reconsidered in the future. Other countries included in the ban are Afghanistan, Yemen, Libya, Lebanon, Bangladesh, Sudan, Uganda, and Cameroon.
The visa restriction comes amid continued diplomatic engagement and cooperation between the Federal Government of Somalia and the UAE, particularly in areas such as security, investment, and infrastructure development.
Despite the temporary visa ban, UAE maintains strong economic and security interests in Somalia. UAE-based companies have invested in the ports of Bosaso and Berbera, and the country continues to support Somali federal forces and government institutions.
While the UAE has not officially provided a detailed explanation for the restrictions, sources suggest that concerns over domestic security, regional instability, and immigration policies are likely contributing factors. Diplomatic consultations and public health considerations are also believed to play a role in the decision.
The UAE government has emphasized that the ban is not permanent and may be reassessed depending on evolving conditions in the affected countries.
