The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has suspended the issuance of all new visas for nationals of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Uganda and South Sudan, while also introducing entry restrictions, amid an Ebola outbreak in the region.
The directive was issued by the country’s National Emergency, Crisis and Disasters Management Authority (NCEMA), which said the measures are part of enhanced national preparedness to contain the spread of the virus and protect public health.
The restrictions apply to travellers from the three countries, including those transiting through third countries, with all new visa issuance, including visit visas, suspended.
“Entry to the UAE will be restricted for travellers arriving from the listed countries, including those travelling via transit through other countries,” said the UAE agency.
“Entry will only be permitted for travellers who have spent more than 21 days outside the listed countries before arriving in the UAE.”
Despite the restrictions, UAE authorities clarified that cargo flights between the UAE and the three countries will continue without disruption, while transit flights will also remain unaffected.
The measures took effect at 13:00 on Saturday, June 6, and may be extended depending on the evolution of the health situation, according to UAE authorities.
“Authorities will continue to monitor global health developments in coordination with their local and international partners, assess any potential impact on other countries and take the necessary measures in line with approved risk assessments and health standards,” NCEMA said.
The decision comes against the backdrop of a worsening Ebola outbreak in the DRC and Uganda, which share porous and closely connected borders with South Sudan, raising concerns over potential cross-border transmission in the region.
Health authorities have reported a steady rise in infections and fatalities in recent days.
A total of 452 confirmed cases and 82 deaths were reported in the DRC on Friday, while health authorities also recorded 71 new infections and 21 additional fatalities in Ituri and North Kivu provinces, pointing to continued transmission in affected areas.
Similarly, 258 patients are currently in isolation or receiving hospital care, while eight people have recovered.
In Uganda, the Ministry of Health reported three new cases, bringing the cumulative total to 19, including 14 imported infections and five Ugandan nationals.
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