UAE Tightens Entry Rules for Nigerians, Suspends Transit Visa Applications
The United Arab Emirates has announced stringent new entry requirements for Nigerian travelers, including a complete suspension of transit visa applications, according to confirmations from travel agents on Tuesday.
In a directive issued by Dubai immigration authorities, it was revealed that Nigerians aged between 18 and 45 are no longer eligible for tourist visas if they are travelling alone. Only applicants within this age group who are accompanied may be considered.
For Nigerian applicants aged 45 and above, the UAE now requires a six-month personal bank statement, with each month showing a minimum end balance of \$10,000 (or its naira equivalent), as part of the visa application process.
Travel experts say the policy shift is expected to significantly reduce travel from Nigeria to Dubai, a popular destination for both tourism and business.
A portion of the official notification stated:
“For Nigerian nationals, please bear in mind that an applicant aged 18 to 45 years travelling alone is not eligible for the tourist visa category.
Applicants aged 45 years and above must provide a single Nigerian personal bank statement covering the last six months, showing a monthly balance of at least $10,000 or its naira equivalent.”
The notification also reminded applicants that these new requirements must accompany the usual visa application documents such as hotel reservations and data pages.
The development has sparked concerns among travel agents and frequent Nigerian travellers to the UAE, many of whom describe the move as restrictive and economically burdensome.
