Addis Ababa, August 28, 2026 (FMC) — Ethiopia and Dubai authorities have discussed visa-related challenges affecting Ethiopian nationals in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), underscoring the importance of continued cooperation in addressing consular and immigration matters affecting the sizeable Ethiopian community in Dubai.
Zerihun Megersa, Consul General of Ethiopia in Dubai and Northern Emirates, held discussions with Lieutenant General Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri, Director General of Refugees and Foreign Affairs, on addressing visa-related concerns facing Ethiopian nationals and strengthening institutional cooperation on immigration matters.
Zerihun underscored the deep and longstanding ties between Ethiopia and the UAE and the close bonds between their peoples, describing Dubai as a second home for Ethiopian nationals. He also expressed appreciation for the support extended toward safeguarding their rights and interests.
The consul general particularly raised the cases of Ethiopian nationals who entered the UAE on visit visas while seeking employment and are currently undergoing procedures to change their status to employment visas.
Zerihun also highlighted cases involving nationals who cancelled their visas to change their employment status but incurred overstay penalties due to delays in obtaining police clearance.
He appealed for support to waive the financial penalties facing the affected nationals and facilitate the regularization of their visa status.
Al Marri described Ethiopia as a partner country of the UAE and affirmed that the relevant authorities would make the necessary efforts and provide support to address visa-related matters affecting Ethiopian nationals.
He also urged Ethiopian nationals residing in the UAE to comply with the country’s immigration laws and regulations and observe established legal and administrative procedures.
The two sides agreed to continue cooperation in the immigration sector and strengthen coordination in addressing issues affecting Ethiopian nationals in Dubai.
The engagement reflects the depth of Ethiopia-UAE relations, which have developed into a broad partnership encompassing governmental, economic and people-to-people ties.
High-level engagement, including Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s meeting with Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, during the Prime Minister’s visit last March, has further underscored the importance attached to the bilateral relationship.
With Dubai home to a large Ethiopian community, effective consular and immigration cooperation represents an important practical dimension of these longstanding ties, particularly in addressing matters that directly affect the well-being and legal status of Ethiopian nationals.