UAE lifts Ebola travel bans on Uganda as Zambia seeks economic ties

The United Arab Emirates has lifted Ebola-related entry restrictions on Ugandan nationals. The decision follows an assessment confirming that Uganda has completed the required international monitoring period after its recent outbreak. While restrictions remain for the Democratic Republic of Congo and South Sudan, the easing of measures is expected to restore normal travel, business, and labor links between the UAE and Uganda.

In a separate diplomatic development, Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema is scheduled to undertake a working visit to the UAE from September 29 to 30, 2026. The visit, following an invitation from UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, aims to deepen economic ties through the ‘Grow Zambia Agenda’. Discussions will focus on mining, mineral value addition, agriculture, energy, and infrastructure.

Economic analysts have noted significant discrepancies in mirror-trade statistics between Zambia and the UAE. Specifically, 2024 data shows a gap of approximately US$1.24 billion, with particularly large differences reported in gold and precious stone exports. Observers are calling for greater transparency and reconciliation of these figures as bilateral economic relations expand.