I was diagnosed during a routine medical test for visa renewal while living in the UAE. When I was declared “unfit” with no more detail provided, I left the UAE within 10 days voluntarily, with no deportation.
Approximately 3 months later, I tried to return but at check in with Emirates Airline my immigration status appeared as “access denied” and “no transit allowed”, meaning a complete entry ban. I had previously obtained a certificate from the UAE health authority to allow me to carry medication, after disclosing exactly what I was taking.
Since I really needed to return to the UAE for a brief and final visit, I applied for an entry visa, through a specialised law firm, even when normally -for my nationality- it is possible to simply obtain an entry visa upon arrival. When the visa was denied, I requested an explanation through the law firm. The response finally stated: “AIDS”.
The cancelled flights and legal expenses cost me quite a sum. Everything would have been much better had the UAE authorities simply stated the situation clearly and unambiguously. What I have described here are the facts. However, between these events, there were endless calls, emails and visits to UAE embassies in various locations in an attempt to get some clarity. It was a horrible situation.