The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is host to the largest concentration of Ugandans in the Middle East with approximately 150,000 Ugandans. Most of them live in Dubai and Abu Dhabi but are also scattered in the other five Emirates i.e., Sharjah, Ajman, Fujairah, Uma Al Quwain and Ras al Khaimah. They are mostly blue-collar workers employed as housemaids, security guards, service staff in entertainment establishments etc. A few are professionals working as teachers, bankers, administrators etc. 

Since 2014, the UAE has become a favourite destination for Ugandans seeking to work abroad. The UAE is an extremely attractive destination for Ugandans. Indeed in 2023, Ugandans in the UAE remitted a substantial US $ 300 Million back home. They also undertake important economic transactions back home such as buying land, building houses, pay tuition fees, healthcare etc., which all have trickle effects in the value chain.

The Association of Ugandans in the UAE (AUU) is the umbrella body that unites the Ugandan community. At its apex is a committee headed by a chairman with an executive. The AUU is supported by committees in each of the seven Emirates which all work very closely with the Embassy.