UAE travel ban on Iran, Lebanon, and Iraq (2026)
On 30 April 2026, the UAE’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) announced an official travel ban prohibiting all UAE nationals from travelling to Iran, Lebanon, and Iraq. The directive cited “current regional developments” as the reason for the ban.
MoFA also urged any UAE citizens already in those three countries to return home immediately.
The ban comes amid escalating tensions around the Strait of Hormuz and ongoing cross-border strikes between Israel and armed groups in southern Lebanon.
The UAE had previously banned its citizens from travelling to Lebanon between 2021 and May 2025, when that earlier ban was lifted.
Emergency contact for UAE nationals abroad
UAE nationals currently in Iran, Lebanon, or Iraq should contact the Ministry of Foreign Affairs immediately via the dedicated hotline:
- MoFA hotline: +971 800 44444
What countries are UAE nationals banned from travelling to?
As of 30 April 2026, the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs has banned UAE nationals from travelling to Iran, Lebanon, and Iraq due to current regional developments.
Does the UAE have a visa ban on certain countries?
The UAE has not officially published a permanent visa ban list. However, as of 2026, nationals from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Cameroon, Lebanon, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Uganda, and Yemen have reported difficulties obtaining new tourist and work visas. Existing visa holders are not affected.
Sources
- UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs — Travel Ban on UAE Nationals to Iran, Lebanon, and Iraq (30 April 2026)
- The National — UAE Bans Citizens from Travelling to Iran, Iraq and Lebanon
- Official UAE Government Portal — Check If You Have a Travel Ban
- Khaleej Times — UAE Travel Ban Now Lifted Automatically Once Case Is Resolved
- UAE Government — Zero Bureaucracy Programme
- Dubai Police — Financial Circular Payment Details Service
- Abu Dhabi Judicial Department — Estafser E-Service
- Business Today — UAE Suspends Tourist and Work Visas for Nine Countries
Disclaimer: Wego strives to ensure all information presented in this article is accurate and up to date at the time of publication. Travel policies, prices, visa requirements, and conditions can change rapidly. We strongly recommend verifying critical details with official sources before making travel decisions. Wego does not accept liability for any inaccuracies, oversights, or changes that may occur after publication.
