UAE Bans Transit Visas, Tightens Entry Rules for Nigerians
The United Arab Emirates has suspended the issuance of transit visas and introduced stricter entry requirements for Nigerian travellers.
According to travel agents who confirmed the development on Tuesday, the new rules are part of a directive from Dubai immigration authorities.
Under the revised policy, Nigerians aged 18 to 45 will no longer qualify for tourist visas unless they are accompanied.
Those above 45 must now submit a personal bank statement spanning six months, showing a minimum end-of-month balance of $10,000 (or its naira equivalent) for each month.
“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,” the directive stated.
“An applicant who is 45 years or above must provide a single Nigerian personal bank statement for a period of the last six months, with each month’s end balance reflecting a minimum ending balance of USD 10,000 or its naira equivalent.
“Kindly note that the above points must be taken into consideration before sending your applications with other existing documents such as hotel reservation, data page, etc,” the notice added.
Travel agents say the move will drastically reduce the number of Nigerian visitors to Dubai, a popular destination for tourism and business.
Titilope Adako is a talented and intrepid journalist, dedicated to shedding light on the untold stories of Osun State and Nigeria. Through incisive reporting, she tackles a broad spectrum of topics, from politics and social justice to culture and entertainment, with a commitment to accuracy, empathy, and inspiring positive change.
