Abu Dhabi: Uganda’s embassy in the United Arab Emirates has urged its nationals to remain vigilant and strictly follow security guidance from UAE authorities as tensions escalate across the Gulf following retaliatory Iranian strikes.
The Embassy of the Republic of Uganda in Abu Dhabi said it remains operational and is actively coordinating with local authorities to monitor developments and safeguard Ugandan citizens.
Uganda’s Ambassador to the UAE, Zaake W. Kibedi, said the mission’s priority is the safety of the growing Ugandan community in the Emirates.
“We are in close contact with the authorities and are carefully monitoring the evolving security situation. Our foremost priority is the safety and well-being of all Ugandans in the UAE,” Ambassador Kibedi said.
“We strongly urge our citizens to follow all official instructions, remain in secure locations where advised, avoid unnecessary travel, and stay informed through official channels.”
The advisory comes amid heightened regional tensions after Iran launched retaliatory missile and drone strikes on military installations in the UAE, Qatar and Saudi Arabia, in response to attacks by the United States and Israel on Iranian territory.
The escalation has prompted precautionary airspace restrictions and disrupted aviation across the Gulf.
Deepening Economic Ties
The security developments come at a time of rapidly expanding economic relations between Uganda and the UAE.
Foreign direct investment from the UAE into Uganda has surged from $300 million in 2018 to $3.5 billion in 2024, reflecting growing Emirati interest in Uganda’s energy, real estate, logistics and infrastructure sectors.
Bilateral trade has also expanded significantly, with the UAE emerging as Uganda’s leading export destination globally.
Total trade between the two countries reached $2.85 billion as of September 2025, driven by gold exports, petroleum products and re-export trade.
The strengthening economic ties have been mirrored by a sharp rise in Uganda’s diaspora population in the Emirates.
The number of Ugandans living and working in the UAE has grown from about 40,000 in 2018 to more than 160,000 in 2024, supported by what Ugandan officials describe as the hospitality and openness of the UAE.
Many Ugandans are employed in domestic work, hospitality, aviation services, construction and retail, with significant concentrations in Dubai and Abu Dhabi — cities that also serve as global aviation hubs.
Aviation Disruptions
Recent airspace restrictions have led to flight suspensions and rerouting by several airlines operating between East Africa and the Gulf. Uganda Airlines temporarily halted its Dubai route, while Emirates and other regional carriers adjusted schedules amid security assessments.
Ambassador Kibedi emphasized calm and cooperation as authorities managed the situation.
“We stand with our community and remain committed to supporting them during this challenging period,” he said.
Ugandan authorities in Kampala have echoed calls for restraint and dialogue among regional actors, while advising citizens to monitor official communication channels and prioritize personal safety.
By ChimpReports
