UAE Imposes Visa Ban on Bangladeshi Citizens

Staff Correspondent

The United Arab Emirates has imposed a visa ban on citizens of a total of 9 countries, including Bangladesh. The decision will take effect from January 2026.

As a result of the ban, people from these countries will no longer be able to apply for work visas, tourist visas or business visas. However, this decision will not affect those currently residing in the UAE with valid visas.

Several countries have already blacklisted Bangladesh and suspended visas during the Yunus government’s tenure. This announcement is seen as a major obstacle to the entry of Bangladeshi workers into the Middle East.

According to a notice from the UAE government’s immigration authority, the countries covered by the visa ban are: Afghanistan, Libya, Yemen, Somalia, Lebanon, Bangladesh, Cameroon, Sudan and Uganda.

Although the Emirati authorities have not officially given detailed reasons, diplomatic circles and various sources say that security concerns, geopolitical tensions, and the implementation of strict health policies are the main reasons behind this decision.

One of its goals is believed to be ensuring protection from terrorism or illegal activities.