Mogadishu, Somalia (Onkod Radio) The United Arab Emirates announced that it will block entry to their country from nine countries, including Somalia from January 2026, citing security, diplomatic and health concerns, local media reports said.

The Visa block covers from tourist, work to business visas. Valid permit holders are allowed to stay, saying the temporary measure will be periodically reviewed.

As per the immigration circular, nationals from certain countries are currently restricted from applying for UAE tourist visas and UAE work permits. Applications from these countries are not being accepted temporarily.

Many Somalis regularly travel to UAE for work and business based visas and the act could cripple Somalia’s business imports.

The UAE and the Somali government have been at odds over UAE policy toward Somalia. The UAE has a military base in the Northeastern town of Bosaso and manages the port of Bosaso. The Emirates has also a military base in Bosaaso.

Its not clear how long the visa ban will continue, but many Somalis are thinking other business import destinations as the ban likely effects the Somali economy.