The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has announced the resumption of visa services for Nigerian citizens, marking the end of a two-year visa ban on Nigerians.
The ban, which was imposed in 2022 and resulted in the automatic rejection of pending visa applications, was lifted on March 4, 2024.
In a joint announcement titled ‘Resumption of Visa Services for Nigerians Travelling to the UAE,’ the governments of Nigeria and the UAE expressed their commitment to strengthening ties, enhancing cultural exchanges, and fostering opportunities for economic and social collaborations.
As part of the resumption process, the UAE has introduced an enhanced document verification process. Starting from March 4, 2024, all Nigerian applicants for UAE visas are required to obtain a document verification number.
This step is aimed at enhancing the integrity of the application process and ensuring prompt processing for all applicants.
The UAE Ambassador to Nigeria, Saleem Saeed Al-Shamsi, emphasized the importance of the updated procedure, stating, “We are committed to facilitating straightforward and expedited visa applications for Nigerians.”
After obtaining the Document Verification Number, applicants can proceed with their visa applications through designated travel agents, after which the process will be completed at the Embassy of the UAE in Abuja or Lagos.
The announcement reflects the ongoing efforts to enhance the strong ties between the UAE and Nigeria, contributing to the prosperity and well-being of both nations’ people.
The decision to lift the visa ban comes after a series of diplomatic tensions between the two countries, including a dispute over the handling of travelers entering Dubai during the COVID-19 pandemic.
President Tinubu’s directive upon assuming office to resolve the diplomatic spat with the UAE has been instrumental in reaching this milestone.
President Tinubu emphasized the need to resolve the issues amicably, stating, “We are a family with the UAE.
We only live in separate rooms, but we are in the same house. We should look at the issues as a family problem and resolve it amicably.”
The resumption of visa services is expected to facilitate easier travel between the two countries and boost economic and cultural exchanges.
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