UAE lifts visa ban for Nigerian travellers after two-year hiatus

The UAE has declared the reinstatement of visa services for Nigerian nationals seeking to travel to the rich Middle East country.

This decision follows a two-year period during which the UAE enforced a visa ban on Nigerians and declined pending visa requests automatically.

A collaborative statement issued by the governments of Nigeria and the UAE titled ‘Resumption of Visa Services for Nigerians Traveling to the UAE’ confirmed the lifting of the visa ban on March 4, 2024.

The statement said the commencement of visa issuance was a “milestone, reflecting the successful outcome of in-depth talks between the two nations and underscoring, “Our shared commitment to strengthening ties, enhancing cultural exchanges and fostering opportunities for economic and social collaborations.”

Commenting on the development, the UAE Ambassador to Nigeria, Saleem Saeed Al-Shamsi disclosed that the country is committed to facilitating straightforward and expedited visa applications for Nigerians.

He said, “We are committed to facilitating straightforward and expedited visa applications for Nigerians. The introduction of the Document Verification Number is designed to enhance the integrity of our application process and ensure prompt processing for all applicants.”

The announcement, the UAE said implies, “our ongoing efforts to enhance the strong ties between the UAE and Nigeria, contributing to the prosperity and well-being of our people.”

Following the emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic and concerns regarding the behaviour of certain individuals from various countries, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) implemented a ban in 2022, preventing nationals from approximately 20 African countries, including Nigeria, from entering its capital city, Dubai.

This move led to tensions between Nigeria and the UAE, particularly concerning the protocols for travellers entering Dubai during the pandemic, which Nigeria criticized.

Consequently, Emirates Airlines ceased operations in Nigeria, after alleging that millions of dollars of its revenue were trapped in Nigeria.

Upon assuming office, President Tinubu prioritized resolving the diplomatic dispute with the UAE, particularly concerning the suspension of Nigerian visas.

Efforts have also commenced to sort the funds owned by the Emirates Airline allegedly trapped in Nigeria.