Simon Peter Mundeyi Outlines Key Details of Uganda–UAE Visa Waiver Agreement
Speaking on behalf of the ministry, spokesperson Simon Peter Mundeyi said the arrangement demonstrates Uganda’s commitment to facilitating legitimate international travel while preserving immigration integrity.
Uganda’s internal affairs authorities have announced the commencement of a bilateral visa waiver arrangement with the United Arab Emirates, marking a significant step in strengthening diplomatic and official travel ties between the two countries.
According to a public statement issued by the Ministry of Internal Affairs through the National Citizenship and Immigration Control, the agreement facilitates visa-free travel for specified passport holders and reflects growing cooperation in areas of mutual interest.
The agreement, signed in May 2025, establishes reciprocal travel privileges designed to ease official movement while maintaining immigration safeguards. Officials say the framework is part of broader efforts to deepen bilateral engagement and promote legitimate travel.
Scope of the visa waiver
Under the new arrangement, nationals of the United Arab Emirates holding diplomatic, special, ordinary, or service passports are exempt from visa requirements when entering Uganda for stays of up to 90 days, subject to standard immigration procedures. These procedures include presenting a valid passport and, where applicable, proof of onward or return travel.
Conversely, Ugandan nationals traveling to the UAE with diplomatic or service passports are granted visa-free entry for stays not exceeding 90 days within any 180-day period. Authorities emphasized that holders of ordinary Ugandan passports are not covered by this waiver and must continue following the standard visa application process for travel to the UAE.
Effective date and implementation
The ministry confirmed that, following ratification and formal entry into force, the visa waiver for eligible UAE nationals traveling to Uganda became operational on February 10, 2026. Immigration officials say implementation is aligned with established border management procedures to ensure both facilitation and national security standards are upheld.
Government representatives describe the development as a practical outcome of expanding diplomatic relations, expected to support official engagements, institutional cooperation, and people-to-people exchanges.
Government position
Speaking on behalf of the ministry, spokesperson Simon Peter Mundeyi said the arrangement demonstrates Uganda’s commitment to facilitating legitimate international travel while preserving immigration integrity.
Authorities encourage travelers to confirm passport eligibility and comply with all entry requirements before departure, noting that immigration officers retain the mandate to enforce existing regulations.
The ministry says the visa waiver framework will continue to be monitored to ensure smooth operation and mutual benefit for both countries, reinforcing a partnership that officials view as increasingly strategic.
