In a recent development, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) authorities have introduced a new set of travel guidelines that impose stricter requirements on Nigerian solo tourists. According to the guidelines, Nigerian nationals traveling alone to the UAE must be at least 45 years old to be eligible for a visa.
The UAE government has also introduced a list of stringent rules that must be followed by Nigerian tourists. These rules include having an account balance of at least $10,000 (approximately N16 million) to qualify for a 30- or 60-day travel visa. Additionally, applicants must provide a six-month bank statement under their name, with a closing balance of not less than $10,000 each month.
Other conditions for obtaining a UAE visa include a confirmed return ticket on Emirates Airlines, confirmed hotel booking, and a valid residence permit of the country of residence.
This development comes after a diplomatic row between Nigeria and the UAE in September 2022, which resulted in a visa ban on Nigerians. However, after closed-door concessions were made, the UAE announced the lifting of the visa ban.
The new travel guidelines are seen as a measure to regulate the influx of Nigerian tourists into the UAE and ensure that only genuine travelers are granted visas. The UAE authorities have emphasized that these rules are non-negotiable, and applicants must meet all the requirements to be eligible for a visa.
The introduction of these stricter requirements may affect the plans of many Nigerian solo tourists who were looking forward to visiting the UAE. However, the UAE authorities are adamant that these rules are necessary to maintain the integrity of their visa system and ensure the safety and security of their citizens and visitors.
