The Ministry of Internal Affairs has unveiled new visa-free travel arrangements between Uganda and Egypt, as well as between Uganda and the United Arab Emirates, in a move aimed at strengthening diplomatic ties and boosting trade relations.
Under the Uganda–Egypt bilateral agreement, holders of diplomatic and official passports from both countries can now travel without visas. Previously, even Ugandan diplomatic passport holders were required to apply for visas before entering Egypt. The new arrangement removes that requirement, simplifying travel for government officials and diplomats.
A ministry official noted that ordinary passport holders are not yet covered under the agreement, as discussions are still ongoing to potentially expand the scope of the visa waiver.
“Ugandans with diplomatic and official passports can now travel to Egypt without applying for visas. This will enable easier travel and trade between the two countries. However, ordinary passport holders are not included in this arrangement for now,” the official said.
Similarly, the agreement with the UAE allows diplomats, officials, and special passport holders from the UAE to enter Uganda visa-free. In return, Uganda’s diplomatic and official passport holders are exempt from visa requirements when traveling to the UAE.
The new visa-free arrangements officially took effect on February 10, 2026.
Government officials said the agreements enhance the international recognition of Uganda’s official travel documents, streamline government travel, and provide a foundation for increased bilateral cooperation in trade, investment, and other sectors.
At the same press briefing, the ministry confirmed the recall of two senior officials from the Directorate of Citizenship and Immigration Control.
Apollo Kasita Goa, Chief of Citizenship and Immigration Control, and Johnson Namanya, who has been in charge of Citizenship and Passport Management, were recalled to headquarters. Both officials had been serving in their respective roles since their appointment in 2018.
According to the ministry, the two were recalled by the Uganda People’s Defence Force (UPDF), which had deployed them to the directorate.
“These two officials have been recalled by the UPDF that deployed them. We appreciate the good work they have done since 2018, especially in addressing the backlog of passport applications. However, our operations will continue without disruption,” the ministry said
