Fact Check: UAE Visa Halt for 9 Countries, Including Bangladesh – What’s True Today?

A viral claim is currently circulating online and on social media, suggesting that the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has temporarily halted the issuance of new visas for citizens from a list of nine specific countries, including Bangladesh. This news has caused considerable concern and confusion among expatriates, migrant workers, and hopeful travelers. As of Thursday, September 18, 2025, our investigation reveals that this widespread claim is largely inaccurate and based on outdated information or unsubstantiated rumors.

While the UAE’s visa policies are dynamic and can change, there has been no official announcement or widespread confirmation from the UAE government, its immigration authorities, or major airlines today, explicitly stating a broad, temporary halt on new visas for these specific nine countries, with Bangladesh on the list. Travelers and those planning to work or visit the UAE should rely only on official sources for critical information.

The Viral Claim vs. Current Reality

The circulating reports often list countries like Pakistan, Turkey, Afghanistan, Syria, Iraq, Somalia, Libya, Yemen, and sometimes Kenya or Bangladesh, as those affected by a “temporary visa halt.”

• Current Status (September 2025): At present, individuals from these nations (including Bangladesh) can still apply for and obtain various types of UAE visas (e.g., work visas, visit visas, transit visas) provided they meet the standard eligibility criteria set by the UAE immigration authorities. Processing times and specific requirements may vary, but a blanket temporary halt is not officially in place.
• No Official Announcement: A major policy change like a UAE visa ban for multiple countries would typically be announced through official channels, published on government websites (like the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security – ICP, or the respective embassies/consulates), and widely reported by reputable news agencies. No such official notification has been made today.

Why is This Rumor Trending Now? Historical Context

The reason this keyword, “UAE visa halt for 9 countries,” might be trending now is likely due to historical precedents and the frequent dissemination of misinformation.

• The 2020 Precedent: A similar situation did occur in November 2020, amidst the height of the global COVID-19 pandemic. At that time, the UAE did temporarily suspend the issuance of new work and visit visas for citizens from a list of countries, which predominantly included Pakistan, Turkey, Afghanistan, Syria, Iraq, Somalia, Libya, Yemen, and Kenya. The reasons cited then were often linked to security concerns, the ongoing pandemic, and issues related to visa overstaying. It is crucial to note that Bangladesh was generally NOT on the widely reported list during that specific 2020 restriction.
• Periodic Visa Adjustments: The UAE, like any sovereign nation, periodically reviews and adjusts its visa policies based on geopolitical situations, economic needs, and security assessments. Sometimes, specific consulate offices or airlines might temporarily face processing backlogs or make internal adjustments that are misinterpreted as a broad “ban.”

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Understanding UAE’s Visa Policy: Key Factors

The UAE’s immigration policy is designed to support its vibrant economy and diverse population. Factors influencing visa issuance typically include:

• Nationality: Different nationalities have different visa requirements (e.g., visa-free entry, visa on arrival, pre-arranged visa).
• Purpose of Visit: Whether it’s for tourism, employment, transit, or family visits.
• Security Clearances: All visa applications undergo security checks.
• Economic Conditions: The demand for certain labor types or the overall economic climate can influence work visa availability.
• International Relations: Diplomatic relations between countries can also play a role.

Who to Trust for Accurate Information? Official Sources Only

Given the sensitivity of such news, it is paramount for individuals to rely solely on verified and official sources.

• Official UAE Government Websites: The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP) website (icp.gov.ae) is the primary source for all official immigration and visa information.
• UAE Embassies and Consulates: The UAE Embassy in your home country or your country’s embassy in the UAE can provide accurate, up-to-date information.
• Reputable Airlines: Airlines flying to the UAE are usually among the first to be informed of major changes in UAE travel restrictions and visa policies.
• Licensed Travel Agents: Ensure they are reputable and cross-check any information they provide with official sources.

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Conclusion: Avoid Rumors, Verify Facts

While the keywords “UAE visa ban” and “Bangladesh UAE visa” are trending, it is important to clarify that as of September 18, 2025, there is no official confirmation of a broad, temporary halt on new visa issuances for citizens from 9 countries, including Bangladesh, by the UAE government. The claim appears to be a resurgence of old news or unsubstantiated rumors.

Travelers and expatriates are strongly advised to exercise caution and always verify information directly from official UAE government sources or their respective diplomatic missions to ensure they have the most accurate and current UAE visa policy update before making any travel plans or decisions.