UAE Bans Work & Tourist Visas for 9 Countries in 2025

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is known globally as a major hub for business, tourism, and expatriate employment. Its strategic location, booming economy, and tax-free benefits have attracted millions of visitors and workers from around the world. However, as of September 23, 2025, a significant development has caused ripples among the global community — reports have surfaced indicating that the UAE has imposed a temporary suspension on issuing tourist and work visas to citizens of nine countries, mainly from Africa and Asia. This unexpected visa ban has triggered concern among prospective travelers, migrant workers, and international businesses.

What’s the Latest News?

According to an internal circular obtained by various media outlets, the UAE authorities have reportedly suspended the acceptance of new tourist and work visa applications from nine countries starting from 2026. This suspension includes both short-term visitor visas and long-term employment permits. The ban is said to be temporary but indefinite, with no clear indication of when or if it might be lifted.

Despite widespread circulation of this news, the UAE government has yet to officially confirm the visa suspension, leaving many questions unanswered and fueling uncertainty among affected nationals and stakeholders. Meanwhile, embassies and consulates from some of the concerned countries have issued clarifications, emphasizing the unofficial nature of the reports.

Countries Affected by the UAE Visa Ban

The following nine countries have reportedly been included in this suspension:

Citizens of these countries are currently barred from applying for new tourist or work visas for the UAE until further notice. This ban covers individuals seeking entry on various visa categories, including business visits, tourism, work permits, and possibly even transit visas.

Historical Context of These Countries’ Relations with UAE

Several of the countries on this list have experienced prolonged political instability, internal conflict, or economic challenges, which have affected their international relations and migration patterns. For instance:

Afghanistan, Yemen, Libya, Somalia, and Sudan have faced extended civil wars or armed conflicts, resulting in fragile governments and heightened security concerns.
Lebanon has been grappling with political and economic turmoil exacerbated by regional tensions.
Bangladesh, Cameroon, and Uganda, while relatively more stable, have high rates of labor migration to the Gulf region, especially to the UAE, for work in sectors such as construction, domestic work, and services.

The UAE has historically been a major destination for workers from South Asia and Africa, with millions of expatriates contributing to its economic growth. Therefore, a ban affecting such a wide swath of these regions is notable and unprecedented.

Why Has the UAE Imposed This Visa Ban?

No official public statement has been released by the UAE government explaining the rationale behind the visa restrictions. However, experts and insiders have speculated several probable reasons that might have influenced this decision:

1. Security Concerns

Many of the affected countries are dealing with internal instability, insurgencies, and political unrest. Given the UAE’s position as a global business and tourism hub, the government likely prioritizes national security and risk mitigation. Restricting visas for nationals from countries with ongoing conflicts may be a precautionary measure to prevent any potential threats, illegal immigration, or infiltration by extremist groups.

2. Public Health Considerations

The aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic and ongoing global health threats have led countries worldwide to tighten border controls and health screening protocols. Some regions affected by the ban have experienced outbreaks of infectious diseases or have limited healthcare infrastructure, increasing the risk of imported health issues.

3. Migration Management and Labor Market Protection

The UAE has one of the highest proportions of expatriates in the world, with foreign nationals comprising over 85% of its population. Managing this vast migrant workforce presents logistical and social challenges, including labor market saturation, undocumented migration, and human trafficking.

The visa ban might be an attempt to regulate migration flows from specific countries, ensuring that visa issuance aligns with current labor market needs, security protocols, and social integration policies.

4. Diplomatic and Political Factors

Geopolitical considerations can also play a role. The UAE may be signaling its stance on regional conflicts or diplomatic relations through immigration policies. This form of “visa diplomacy” is not uncommon internationally, where travel restrictions are used as leverage or as a message in political negotiations.

What About Existing Visa Holders and Residents?

Importantly, this visa suspension applies only to new visa applications. Nationals from these countries who already hold valid UAE visas, including residence permits, work visas, or tourist visas, will not be affected and may continue to live, work, and travel within the country legally.

Employers and sponsors of expatriates from these nations have been advised to maintain proper documentation and comply with UAE immigration regulations. The ban does not retroactively cancel any current visas or residency permits.

Official Responses and Clarifications

Several embassies and officials from the affected countries have responded to rumors and social media speculation regarding the ban:

The Bangladeshi Ambassador to the UAE, Tareq Ahmed, publicly denied the existence of any formal ban against Bangladesh nationals, labeling such reports as misinformation. He urged Bangladeshi citizens to rely only on verified government announcements.
Similarly, other countries’ diplomatic missions have sought clarification from UAE authorities, emphasizing the importance of transparent communication to avoid panic among their nationals working or traveling in the UAE.

The Wider Impact of the Visa Ban

On Migrant Workers and Families

The UAE is home to a significant population of migrant workers from Asia and Africa. These workers often send remittances back home, supporting families and local economies in their native countries. The visa ban could disrupt this flow and create financial strain for households dependent on income earned abroad.

On Tourism and Business

The UAE’s tourism industry is a cornerstone of its economy. Countries affected by the ban represent both potential visitors and business travelers. A suspension of visas from these regions could lead to a drop in tourism revenue and affect bilateral business ventures.

On UAE’s Global Image

The UAE has positioned itself as a cosmopolitan and welcoming nation, promoting openness and diversity. While the visa ban may be a security and administrative necessity, it may also invite criticism regarding inclusiveness and human rights.

What Should Travelers and Applicants Do?

For nationals of the affected countries, the current best advice is to stay updated via official UAE government portals, embassies, and consulates. It is crucial to avoid falling prey to misinformation and fraudulent visa agents promising visas amidst restrictions.

Employers and recruitment agencies should also review their hiring policies and remain compliant with UAE labor and immigration laws.

Conclusion

The reported UAE visa ban on citizens from nine countries is a significant development in global migration policies. While the UAE government has not officially confirmed the suspension, the leaked circular and corroborating sources suggest that the ban is a reality with immediate effects on new visa applicants.

Rooted in concerns about security, health, migration management, and geopolitical considerations, this move underscores the complexities countries face in balancing openness with safety and economic interests.

As the UAE continues to be a vital global crossroads for tourism, trade, and expatriate labor, the visa ban raises important questions about the future of international mobility and regional relations.

Travelers, migrant workers, and businesses are urged to monitor official announcements closely, plan accordingly, and seek assistance from diplomatic missions to navigate this evolving situation.