UAE visa ban on Ugandans: How to safely plan your Gulf career amid visa restrictions

The UAE recently announced a visa ban affecting Ugandan nationals starting January 2026. While the ban has sparked concern among thousands of Ugandan workers and families, it also opens the door to exploring alternative career opportunities across the Gulf region.

UAE visa ban 2025: What Ugandans need to know
In September 2025, reports surfaced about the UAE imposing visa restrictions on Ugandan nationals starting in 2026. However, the Ugandan Ministry of Foreign Affairs clarified that there has been no official statement from the UAE government confirming such a ban. Ambassador Zaake Wanume Kibedi emphasized that Uganda has not been blacklisted by the UAE, and no visa restrictions have been communicated.

Despite this clarification, some media outlets continue to report on the alleged ban, causing confusion among Ugandans seeking employment opportunities in the UAE. It's crucial for job seekers to rely on official sources and avoid misinformation circulating on social media.

How UAE visa restrictions affect Ugandan workers and remittances
The UAE has been a significant destination for Ugandan migrant workers, with over 150,000 Ugandans residing and working there as of 2025. In 2023, Ugandans in the UAE sent home approximately $300 million in remittances, supporting thousands of families. The new visa restrictions may affect future employment opportunities and could lead to a decline in remittance flows.

While the UAE remains a popular destination for Ugandan workers, it's essential to stay informed about any changes in visa policies and explore alternative employment opportunities in other Gulf countries.

Top Gulf countries open to Ugandan job seekers in 2025
While the UAE has imposed visa restrictions, other Gulf countries continue to offer employment opportunities for Ugandan nationals:

• Qatar: Qatar Airways is actively recruiting Ugandan nationals for various positions, including cabin crew, engineering, and customer service roles. Interested candidates can explore available opportunities and apply through the Qatar Airways careers portal
  
• Saudi Arabia: Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 initiative has led to an increased demand for foreign labor in various sectors, including engineering, healthcare, and education. The Saudi government has implemented reforms to attract skilled workers and improve labor market efficiency
  
• Oman: Oman has been focusing on diversifying its economy and has opportunities in sectors like tourism, healthcare, and education.
  
• Bahrain: Bahrain's economy is booming, creating high demand for skilled professionals across fintech, IT, tourism, healthcare, manufacturing, and logistics sectors. Companies like Ahli United Bank, AWS Bahrain, Ritz-Carlton, and ALBA are actively recruiting. Job seekers can explore opportunities on LinkedIn, Bayt.com, and Careers.gov
  

These countries continue to welcome foreign workers and may offer viable alternatives for Ugandans seeking employment in the Gulf region.

How Ugandans can secure jobs in the Gulf amid UAE visa ban
To ensure a smooth transition and secure employment in Gulf countries, Ugandan nationals should consider the following steps:

• Consult Official Sources: Regularly check the Ugandan Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the embassies of Gulf countries for updates on visa policies and employment opportunities.
  
• Engage Reputable Recruitment Agencies: Use licensed recruitment agencies to ensure legitimate employment opportunities and to avoid potential scams.
  
• Understand Labor Laws: Familiarize yourself with the labor laws and regulations of the destination country to ensure compliance and protect your rights as a worker.
  
• Maintain Updated Documentation: Ensure that your passport, academic qualifications, and professional certifications are up-to-date and meet the requirements of the destination country.
  
• Explore Alternative Destinations: Consider applying for employment opportunities in other Gulf countries that may have more favorable visa policies.

Planning a safe Gulf career despite UAE visa restrictions
While the UAE's visa restrictions have created uncertainty for many Ugandans seeking employment in the Gulf region, it is important to rely on official information and explore alternative opportunities in other Gulf countries. By staying informed and taking proactive steps, Ugandan nationals can continue to pursue employment opportunities abroad and support their families.