New Delhi, Sept. 23 -- The United Arab Emirates has reportedly paused issuing tourist and work visas to citizens from nine countries across Africa and Asia on a temporary basis, according to a report by The Times of India, citing an internal immigration circular, indicating a major policy change with broad economic, diplomatic, and humanitarian implications.

The UAE has temporarily suspended new visa applications from certain countries, the report said, citing a confidential immigration circular. These countries are -

As of 2026, residents of these nine countries are prohibited from applying for tourist visas and work permits in the UAE. This policy continues indefinitely, with no specified timeline for review or potential changes.

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