UAE Lifts Three-Year Travel Ban on Lebanon

The United Arab Emirates has announced it will lift the travel ban imposed on its citizens visiting Lebanon, ending a restriction that had been in place since 2021. The move follows a meeting between Lebanese President Joseph Aoun and UAE President Mohamed bin Zayed in Abu Dhabi, where both governments agreed to reestablish the free movement of citizens between their countries.

According to a joint statement released after the meeting, the two nations have committed to implementing necessary procedures to facilitate travel and ensure smooth coordination. Mechanisms to regulate and support the movement of citizens are also being developed as part of the agreement.

Background of the Travel Ban and Diplomatic Rift

The travel restriction was introduced in 2021 amid a broader diplomatic dispute. At the time, the UAE aligned with Saudi Arabia in withdrawing ambassadors from Lebanon and restricting travel after a Lebanese minister publicly criticized the Saudi-led military campaign in Yemen. The UAE’s actions were taken in solidarity with Riyadh, which had been at the center of the regional coalition involved in the conflict.

Although Emirati citizens were prohibited from visiting Lebanon, Lebanese nationals were not formally barred from entering the UAE. However, some faced difficulties securing visas, which indirectly affected travel between the two countries.

The announcement also included economic elements aimed at strengthening bilateral ties. The Abu Dhabi Fund for Development plans to dispatch a delegation to Lebanon to explore potential joint initiatives, particularly in the area of infrastructure development. This effort is expected to contribute to Lebanon’s recovery amid its ongoing economic crisis.

Shifting Dynamics and Gulf Reengagement

Relations between Lebanon and Gulf states, including the UAE, have been strained in recent years, largely due to the growing political and military influence of Hezbollah within Lebanese governance. The group’s support for Iran-aligned regional policies has historically placed it at odds with Gulf monarchies.

However, the regional balance has shifted in recent months. Hezbollah has seen a reduction in its operational capacity following recent clashes with Israel and broader developments in Syria, including the diminishing power of the Assad government. These changes have opened the door for renewed diplomatic engagement from Gulf capitals.

The UAE joins Saudi Arabia in signaling a fresh approach to Lebanon. In March, Riyadh announced it would review restrictions on Lebanese imports and revisit its travel advisory for its citizens. This decision followed a high-profile meeting between President Aoun and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, marking Aoun’s first official international visit since assuming office in January.

Aoun, widely seen as a consensus candidate supported by both Saudi Arabia and the United States, was elected after Hezbollah’s regional influence waned. His election reflects a recalibration of internal Lebanese power dynamics and a potential pathway to normalized relations with key international partners.