The decision follows restrictions announced by the UAE on June 6, 2026, temporarily halting the entry of travelers from the affected countries as part of efforts to prevent the spread of the Ebola virus. The UAE also suspended visa issuance for travelers from the listed countries.

In a statement, RwandAir confirmed that passengers originating from or transiting through Uganda, the DRC, and South Sudan will not be allowed to board flights bound for the UAE. The airline noted that the measures are in line with the UAE’s updated public health requirements.

However, UAE citizens and holders of diplomatic passports remain exempt from the restrictions. Rwandan citizens and residents are still permitted to travel to the UAE, as Rwanda has not recorded any Ebola cases.

Rwandan Prime Minister Dr. Justin Nsengiyumva recently reassured the public that the country remains fully prepared to prevent and respond to any potential Ebola outbreak. He said Rwanda has strengthened surveillance, prevention, and response mechanisms while ensuring that economic activities and daily life continue normally.

RwandAir had only recently resumed its UAE flights on June 1, 2026, after months of suspension caused by regional tensions involving the United States, Israel, and Iran. The airline currently operates five weekly flights to the UAE.

The Ebola strain currently affecting the region is the Bundibugyo variant. In the DRC, more than 480 infections and 86 deaths have been reported. Uganda has confirmed 19 cases and two deaths, while South Sudan remains under close watch due to its proximity to affected countries despite not recording any confirmed cases so far.