The United Arab Emirates has announced new travel restrictions affecting arrivals from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Uganda, and South Sudan as part of efforts to strengthen preparedness against potential Ebola outbreaks.
The measures were jointly announced by the National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority and the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security.
Under the new rules, the UAE will suspend the issuance of new visas, including visit visas, for nationals of the three countries.
Authorities also said entry into the UAE will be restricted for travelers arriving from the affected countries, including those who transit through other destinations before reaching the Emirates.
Travelers who have spent more than 21 consecutive days outside the three countries before arriving in the UAE will be exempt from the restrictions and allowed entry.
The measures will take effect at 1 p.m. on June 6 and may be extended depending on developments in the global health situation.
Despite the restrictions, cargo operations and transit flights between the UAE and the affected countries will continue.
Authorities said the move forms part of the country’s preventive strategy to safeguard public health amid ongoing monitoring of Ebola-related developments in parts of Africa.
Officials added that the UAE will continue to assess global health risks and implement additional measures when necessary based on health standards and risk assessments.
