BREAKING: UAE Set to Ease Visa Hassles for Nigerians

By Achimi Muktar

Nigerians looking to visit the United Arab Emirates (UAE) may soon have an easier time securing visas as the Nigerian government and the UAE initiate fresh discussions to resolve long-standing visa procurement challenges.

The Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, revealed this during a high-level meeting with the UAE Ambassador to Nigeria, Amb. Salem Alshamsi. She acknowledged the frustrating hurdles Nigerians have faced in obtaining UAE visas, particularly for tourism, despite the long-standing diplomatic and economic ties between the two nations.

A History of Setbacks

Nigeria and the UAE have maintained a strategic partnership over the years, with thousands of Nigerians residing and working in the Gulf country. However, recent years have seen increasing difficulties in securing visas, even for government officials.

According to Mrs. Odumegwu-Ojukwu, Dubai remains a prime destination for Nigerians, with about 12,000 officially residing in the UAE as professionals, students, and workers. In 2015 alone, nearly a million Nigerians visited the UAE, collectively spending over $1 billion on tourism, shopping, and school fees. Yet, visa bottlenecks have continued to strain travel between the two nations.

A Step Towards Resolution

During their meeting, both officials agreed on the need for a balanced economic relationship and smoother visa processes. Mrs. Odumegwu-Ojukwu emphasized the importance of clear communication regarding any changes in visa policy and proposed hosting a joint commission in Nigeria to address key bilateral issues, including renewable energy and power projects.

In a show of goodwill, she also acknowledged the UAE’s recent humanitarian support to Nigeria, including relief materials for flood victims and vaccines for chickenpox patients.

The UAE’s Commitment

Responding to concerns, Amb. Alshamsi assured that the UAE government remains committed to resolving visa challenges. He disclosed that more than 700 tourism visas had been issued since July 2024 and emphasized that no visa applications had been rejected under his tenure.

Furthermore, he hinted at a major agreement expected to be signed ahead of the Nigerian president’s upcoming visit to the UAE in the second quarter of 2025. This, he said, would further solidify the two nations’ diplomatic and economic ties.

For Nigerians eager to travel to the UAE, these developments signal a possible end to the visa struggles, with clearer policies and improved access on the horizon.