Overview:
Uganda and the United Arab Emirates have implemented a visa waiver agreement for specific passport holders to strengthen diplomatic and official relations.
KAMPALA, Uganda — The Ministry of Internal Affairs has implemented a visa waiver agreement between Uganda and the United Arab Emirates for specific passport holders.
The agreement, which for eligible UAE nationals took effect Feb. 10, follows a bilateral deal signed May 7, 2025. It is intended to strengthen diplomatic and official ties between the two nations.
Under the new terms, UAE citizens holding diplomatic, special, ordinary or service passports can enter and stay in Uganda for up to 90 days without a visa. Travelers must still follow standard immigration procedures, including presenting a valid passport and proof of onward travel.
Ugandan citizens holding diplomatic and service passports are also exempt from visa requirements when traveling to the UAE for stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period.
However, the ministry clarified that the waiver does not apply to Ugandans with ordinary passports. Those travelers must continue to follow standard visa application procedures to enter the UAE.
Simon Peter Mundeyi, spokesperson for the ministry, said the move shows a commitment to facilitating legitimate travel and improving bilateral cooperation.