In a major policy shift, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has imposed new, more stringent visa restrictions on Nigerian nationals, including a ban on transit visa applications and tighter conditions for tourist visas.
The new directives, communicated to Nigerian travel agents on Tuesday, have sparked widespread concern across Nigeria’s travel and tourism sectors, particularly as Dubai remains a top destination for both business and leisure travelers.
Key Highlights of the New Visa Policy:
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Transit visa applications for Nigerian nationals are no longer accepted.
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Tourist visa applications from Nigerians aged 18 to 45 years will be rejected unless the applicant is accompanied.
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Applicants aged 45 and above must provide:
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A personal Nigerian bank statement covering the last six months.
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Each month’s ending balance must reflect at least $10,000 (USD) or its naira equivalent.
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In addition to these changes, existing visa requirements such as hotel reservations, passport data pages, and other supporting documents remain mandatory.
A travel agent in Lagos, speaking to Daily Trust, confirmed the new policy has already begun impacting applications.
“The situation is worsening. Many clients have been denied already, and now with the ban on transit visas, it’s clear that traveling to Dubai will become even more difficult,” the agent said.
This comes nearly a year after the UAE lifted a two-year visa ban on Nigerians, which had been put in place due to diplomatic tensions. Although the ban was lifted in 2024, it was accompanied by strict requirements, including sponsorship rules and enhanced security vetting.
The latest move is seen by stakeholders as a serious blow to Nigerian-UAE travel relations, especially for young entrepreneurs, frequent travelers, and those pursuing short-term business opportunities.
Industry Reactions and Concerns
Travel operators and analysts have expressed concern that the UAE’s actions may disproportionately affect young Nigerians—especially those who rely on Dubai as a hub for small-scale imports, conferences, and personal travel.
“This policy will drastically reduce the number of Nigerian visitors to the UAE. It’s targeted and deliberate,” said a travel consultant in Abuja.
There are also fears that Nigerian students and medical travelers could be affected if further restrictions follow.
The Nigerian government is yet to release an official statement on the development, though diplomatic observers say talks between Abuja and Abu Dhabi may be necessary to avoid further deterioration in bilateral travel cooperation.
