The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has not imposed any visa restrictions on Bangladeshi nationals, officials confirmed, dismissing recent social media reports as false.

Tareq Ahmed, Bangladesh’s Ambassador to the UAE, clarified that no official directive has been issued by UAE authorities regarding tourist or work visas for Bangladeshis. Speaking to Business Standard, he said, “So far, neither our embassy nor the consulate has received any information from the UAE government regarding such a ban.”

Several online platforms recently claimed that the UAE had suspended visa issuance for citizens of certain countries, including Bangladesh. However, these reports lacked confirmation from any official UAE government source, according to reports.

Stay informed with the latest news. Follow DXB News Network on WhatsApp Channel 

Md Rashedujjaman, the Consul-General of Bangladesh in Dubai and Northern Emirates, noted that the Bangladeshi population in the UAE is around one million, making them the third-largest expatriate group after Indians and Pakistanis. Global Media Insight estimates the number at approximately 0.84 million.

Rashedujjaman also mentioned ongoing discussions with UAE authorities to ease visa processes for Bangladeshi nationals, highlighting hopes for deeper integration into the UAE’s economic and social development.

The unverified social media reports suggested that starting from 2026, residents from nine countries—including Bangladesh, Libya, Yemen, Somalia, Lebanon, Cameroon, Sudan, and Uganda—would face a temporary suspension of tourist and work visa applications. No official confirmation or timeline for review has been provided by UAE authorities.

Update: As of now, UAE continues to process visas for Bangladeshi nationals normally, and authorities have not issued any new restrictions.