The Nigerian government is in talks with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to resolve longstanding visa procurement challenges faced by Nigerians travelling to the Gulf nation. The minister of state for foreign affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, confirmed the discussions after meeting with the UAE ambassador to Nigeria, Salem Alshamsi. She acknowledged that despite strong diplomatic ties and economic engagement between both nations, many Nigerians have struggled to obtain visas, particularly for tourism. The issue has persisted even as thousands of Nigerians reside in the UAE, contributing significantly to the country’s Economy through education, business, and tourism expenditures.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu highlighted the need for a more balanced economic partnership, citing concerns that the visa restrictions have disproportionately affected Nigerians despite their substantial financial contributions. She noted that in 2015 alone, nearly a million Nigerians visited the UAE, spending over $1 billion on various activities. The minister called for clearer communication on UAE visa policies and proposed hosting a joint commission meeting in Nigeria to address broader bilateral issues, including Renewable Energy and trade. In response, Alshamsi reaffirmed the UAE’s commitment to resolving visa-related concerns, revealing that more than 700 tourism visas had been issued since mid-2024 and that no rejections had occurred under his tenure. He also hinted at an upcoming agreement expected to strengthen ties ahead of the Nigerian president’s visit to the UAE.
Many Nigerians struggle with the UAE’s application process.
Moreover, the visa issue is part of a broader diplomatic strain that has impacted travel and Trade between the two countries. A while ago, the UAE imposed a visa ban on Nigerian travellers, citing Security concerns and irregular migration, though officials later suggested the move was temporary. While some restrictions have since been lifted, many Nigerians still struggle with the application process, leading to frustration among businesspeople, students, and families who rely on UAE connections. The latest discussions signal a possible shift towards easing travel restrictions, but concrete policy changes remain to be seen.
In addition to visa procurement, the negotiations between Nigeria and the UAE highlight the importance of equitable diplomatic engagement. While Nigerian officials seek improved access for their citizens, there is also a need to address concerns raised by the UAE regarding security and compliance with immigration laws. Establishing a more transparent and efficient visa process would benefit both nations, allowing for increased tourism, trade, and investment. Strengthening these ties could also open new opportunities for collaboration in key sectors such as infrastructure, technology, and education.
UAE serves as a place of opportunities for many Nigerians.
For many Nigerians, the UAE represents more than just a travel destination; it is a hub for business expansion, higher education, and employment opportunities. The visa restrictions have disrupted these aspirations, affecting individuals and businesses that depend on access to the Gulf nation. The hospitality and Retail sectors in the UAE have also felt the impact, as Nigerian visitors are known for their significant spending on tourism and luxury goods. A resolution to the visa issue would not only restore travel convenience but also boost economic engagement between the two countries.
Furthermore, the Nigerian government must also consider the broader implications of its foreign policy and travel diplomacy. While it pushes for easier visa access for its citizens, addressing internal challenges such as passport issuance delays and fraudulent travel documentation is equally crucial. Ensuring that Nigerian travellers meet international standards in documentation and conduct would strengthen the country’s case for better visa agreements with other nations, while also improving its global reputation and fostering greater trust in its immigration system.
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Ultimately, the UAE remains a critical destination for Nigerians, not just for tourism but also for economic and professional opportunities. Many skilled Nigerian workers contribute to the UAE’s workforce, and the Gulf nation remains a top destination for shopping, education, and medical tourism. Resolving visa challenges would enable smoother movement for legitimate travellers while fostering mutual economic growth. The upcoming diplomatic engagements will be crucial in determining whether tangible changes will be made to visa policies or if Nigerians will continue to face hurdles in accessing the UAE.