The United Arab Emirates has introduced a fresh wave of visa restrictions targeting Nigerian travellers, a move that could sharply limit access to one of Africa’s most frequented foreign destinations. Effective immediately, the UAE has halted all transit visa applications from Nigerian nationals and imposed stringent conditions for those seeking tourist visas.
According to travel agents familiar with the new directive, Nigerians between the ages of 18 and 45 are now barred from applying for tourist visas unless they are travelling in the company of others—presumably close family members or official groups. Solo travellers within this age bracket will no longer be considered under the tourist visa category.
For Nigerians aged 45 and above, the UAE has imposed a steep financial requirement. Applicants must present a personal six-month bank statement, with each month showing a minimum ending balance of $10,000 (or the equivalent in naira). This condition must be met using a single account, not a joint or corporate one.
The new measures are expected to drastically reduce the volume of Nigerian travellers heading to Dubai and other parts of the UAE. Over the years, Dubai has remained a top destination for Nigerians, attracting thousands each month for business, tourism, shopping, education, and medical treatment. However, tensions between the two countries over visa policies have been mounting in recent years, leading to frequent changes and suspensions in travel procedures.
“These new visa conditions will definitely discourage most Nigerians from travelling to Dubai,” said a Lagos-based travel consultant. “The financial requirement alone cuts off a large number of potential visitors. Many ordinary travellers, especially young entrepreneurs and first-time visitors, will be unable to meet this threshold.”
The UAE authorities have not publicly stated the reasons behind the policy shift, but travel industry sources believe it may be part of broader efforts to manage immigration concerns and reduce the incidence of overstays and undocumented workers from Nigeria and other African countries.
This is not the first time the UAE has taken such action. In 2022, the Gulf nation suspended visa issuance to Nigerians following reports of criminal activity involving a few individuals. Although visas were later reinstated under tighter controls, this latest directive marks a significant escalation in entry restrictions.
The move also comes at a time when many African travellers have raised concerns about increasing barriers to mobility and the impact on legitimate economic and tourism activities. For many Nigerian traders, students, and families, Dubai has long served as a gateway to global commerce, and the new rules may push some to consider alternative destinations in the Middle East or Asia.
There is currently no indication of how long the new restrictions will remain in place. Nigerian authorities have yet to issue a formal response, but diplomatic engagements are likely in the coming weeks as affected citizens and travel operators demand clarification and possible intervention.
Until then, travel agents have advised Nigerians to suspend visa applications to the UAE and await further guidance.
