The UAE Lifts Travel Restrictions for Nigerians, Allowing Visa Issuance Without Limits. Mohammed Idris, Minister of Information and National Orientation, announced this development following the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting chaired by President Bola Tinubu on Monday.
The UAE has lifted a longstanding travel ban on Nigerian passport holders, which had been in place for over two years due to diplomatic tensions. Initially imposed in 2021 amid concerns over COVID-19 cases among travelers from Nigeria and the Democratic Republic of Congo, the ban was exacerbated by disputes over flight operations involving Air Peace and the UAE’s aviation authority. This led to reduced flight slots for Emirates in Nigeria.
Effective immediately from July 15, 2024, Nigerian passport holders can now obtain visas and travel to the UAE without restrictions. Minister Mohammed Idris announced the resolution, stating, ‘Following discussions, an agreement has been reached allowing Nigerian passport holders to travel to the UAE without hindrance.
The decision to lift the travel ban has elicited mixed reactions.
Ime Udoh, president of the National Association of Tour Operators (NATOP), explained to that while some tour operators are pleased with the lifting of the visa ban, others remain indifferent. “There’s a range of responses among tour operators. Dubai has always been a popular destination for Nigerians, and it’s been a straightforward choice for tour operators. However, during the extended ban period, many travelers explored new destinations, and we’ve also started promoting local destinations more. Some have realized that we can thrive without Dubai. The prolonged ban has shown a lack of appreciation, leading people to prefer destinations where they feel more valued,” she said.
Meanwhile, the National Association of Nigerian Travel Agents (NANTA) expressed its delight, stating that its members have eagerly awaited this development.
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Yinka Folami, the national president of the association, highlighted that while travel agents are enthusiastic about the economic opportunities brought by the UAE’s lifting of the visa ban, it’s important for Nigeria to remember the countries and airlines that remained supportive during challenging times.
He commented, “The travel industry is very pleased with this development, as it has been eagerly anticipated by our members. Emirates had announced their plans to resume flights to Nigeria two months ago, signaling the need for visa restrictions to be lifted to facilitate passenger traffic. This change will boost business for travel agents and benefit travelers, especially those planning trips to Dubai for business and leisure. It’s a positive step for both parties. However, amidst this excitement, we must acknowledge the airlines that stood by us when Emirates and the UAE closed their doors. We should also appreciate those airlines that maintained available flight capacities for us, as well as the countries that did not impose visa bans on Nigerian travelers.”
