Emirates has issued a travel advisory urging passengers to check official destination entry requirements before departure as several countries introduce Ebola-related restrictions and enhanced health screening measures.
The airline’s update, issued on May 28, 2026, is an important reminder for international travellers using major transit hubs such as Dubai International Airport. Passengers whose itineraries involve Uganda, the Democratic Republic of the Congo or South Sudan may face additional requirements depending on their destination and recent travel history.
The measures follow an Ebola disease outbreak caused by Bundibugyo virus in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda. The World Health Organization determined on May 17 that the outbreak constitutes a Public Health Emergency of International Concern. However, WHO stated that the event does not meet the criteria for a pandemic emergency.
For travellers, the practical message is clear: review official government rules before flying, keep contact details updated with the airline and allow additional time for possible health checks.
US Introduces Enhanced Airport Screening
The United States has introduced entry restrictions for foreign nationals who were present in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Uganda or South Sudan during the 21 days before arrival.
US citizens, US nationals and lawful permanent residents who recently visited those countries may still enter the United States. However, affected passengers can be redirected to designated airports for enhanced public-health screening.
The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention began screening at Washington Dulles International Airport on May 20 and expanded the process to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport on May 22.
Screening includes a travel-history and symptom questionnaire, confirmation of contact details, observation for signs of illness and a temperature check using a non-contact thermometer. Passengers without symptoms receive information about monitoring their health after arrival and may continue to their final destination.
Travellers who develop symptoms are evaluated by public-health officers.
Canada Adds Temporary Border Measures
Canada has also introduced temporary measures in response to the evolving outbreak.
Beginning May 27, Canada moved to suspend immigration documents for residents of countries considered to have a high or very high Ebola outbreak risk. The measure currently includes the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Uganda and South Sudan.
This means that some travellers with previously approved temporary resident visas, electronic travel authorisations or permanent resident visas may not be permitted to travel to Canada while their documents remain suspended.
Canada has also announced an additional requirement beginning May 30. Travellers who have been in the affected areas within the previous 21 days and do not have symptoms must quarantine for 21 days after arrival. Passengers with symptoms will be isolated at a hospital for further assessment.
Canadian citizens and permanent residents retain the right to return but must comply with screening and quarantine procedures.
Airlines Play a Key Communication Role
Emirates connects passengers across Africa, the Middle East, Europe, Asia and the Americas through Dubai. Its advisory does not replace government requirements. Instead, it directs travellers to check official destination rules before departure.
That guidance matters because requirements can vary depending on nationality, residence status, travel history and final destination. A passenger transiting through Dubai may need to consider rules applied by authorities at the end of the journey, not only at the departure airport.
Airlines also play a vital operational role by communicating schedule changes, verifying documents and helping passengers understand whether additional checks may apply.
Ebola Is Not Spread Through the Air
Ebola spreads through direct contact with infected bodily fluids. It is not transmitted through the air in the same way as respiratory illnesses.
WHO has confirmed that the current outbreak involves Bundibugyo virus. There is currently no approved vaccine or specific treatment for this virus, although supportive care remains important and research is continuing.
Passengers should monitor their health carefully after leaving affected areas and seek medical advice immediately if symptoms develop. These can include fever, fatigue, vomiting and diarrhoea.
Travellers Should Prepare Before Departure
Passengers planning international travel should check official government guidance shortly before departure because border measures can change with little notice.
Travellers should also ensure that their booking contact details are correct, carry required documentation and arrive early enough to complete additional procedures where necessary.
The Emirates Ebola travel advisory shows how airlines and public-health authorities are working together to protect passengers while maintaining international connectivity. Careful planning will help travellers navigate the new measures with greater confidence.
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