By Adenike Lawal
In a fresh policy reversal, the United Arab Emirates has introduced new visa restrictions for Nigerian travellers, including a total suspension of transit visa applications.
The move comes less than a year after both countries resolved a long-standing visa impasse.
As of July 9, 2025, travel agencies in Nigeria began receiving official notices from UAE immigration authorities detailing the new visa conditions.
The tightened measures significantly impact Nigerian tourists and transit passengers.
According to the updated rules, Nigerians aged 18 to 45 are no longer eligible to apply for tourist visas independently.
Applications from this age group will only be considered if the applicant is accompanied-though the criteria for an acceptable companion remain vague.
For Nigerians aged 45 and above, the UAE now requires a personal six-month bank statement showing a minimum closing balance of $10,000 (or its naira equivalent), in addition to standard travel documentation such as hotel reservations and passport data pages.
The development is a setback to the gradual normalization of travel ties between both nations since the lifting of the UAE’s two-year visa ban on Nigerians in 2023.
Industry experts warn the latest restrictions could further strain relations and reduce Nigerian travel to Dubai, a once-popular destination for tourism, education, and business.
For many Nigerians with scheduled plans, the tougher visa regime poses not only administrative challenges but a disruption to opportunities and mobility.
