United Arab Emirates cites security reviews as it suspends tourist and work visas for nationals of Nigeria, Ghana, Sudan, and six other African countries.
Officials confirmed that the restrictions, effective immediately, apply to applicants from Nigeria, Ghana, Sierra Leone, Sudan, Cameroon, Liberia, the Republic of Benin, Congo, and Burundi. The UAE stressed that the measure is not a permanent ban but a precautionary step while authorities conduct a policy review.
The temporary suspension has drawn widespread concern among job seekers and families planning to travel to the Emirates — a global hub for tourism and employment. Although the UAE frequently reviews its visa and residency systems, this latest move has disrupted travel plans and job applications for thousands.
“The decision is a security-related measure aimed at preventing misuse of visa channels and improving border integrity,” a senior UAE official familiar with the matter said on condition of anonymity, as the government has not issued an official press statement beyond confirming the suspension.
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The UAE’s Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation often enforces short-term restrictions during policy reassessments. Analysts say this round may be linked to tightening controls on illegal migration and the use of visitor visas for employment.
While the suspension impacts citizens of the nine listed nations, travel and visa procedures for other countries — including India — remain unchanged. The UAE continues to be a top destination for Indian tourists and skilled professionals, who can still obtain Dubai eVisas and employment permits through the usual online channels.
Travel industry experts advise applicants from unaffected nations to verify visa updates through official UAE immigration websites or accredited travel partners, as sudden policy adjustments are common.
The move has also affected the UAE’s private sector, where employers in construction, healthcare, and services often rely on workers from West and Central Africa. Recruiters say the temporary halt may slow hiring until the visa policy is clarified.
Officials have not disclosed when the suspension will be lifted but emphasized that applications already in process may face additional security checks.
The UAE has periodically implemented similar measures over the past decade, reflecting its balancing act between maintaining openness as a global business hub and ensuring national security through stricter immigration vetting.
For now, citizens of the affected countries must wait for further announcements, as the Emirates reassesses its migration framework amid growing regional mobility and security concerns.
