In a sweeping policy shift effective July 8–9, 2025, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has suspended transit visa processing for all Nigerian passport holders and imposed stricter conditions on tourist visa applicants. These changes come hot on the heels of new U.S. visa restrictions on Nigerian travellers, creating a one-two punch on mobility from West Africa.

Transit Visa Suspension

Dubai immigration authorities communicated to travel agents that Nigerian nationals will no longer be granted transit visas, effectively ending a widely used route via Dubai for connecting flights to Asia, Europe, and beyond.

Tourist Visa Restrictions

1. Nigerians aged 18–45 traveling alone are now ineligible for standalone tourist visas. Only applicants accompanied by eligible co-travellers—such as family or official groups—may apply.
2. Nigerians aged 45 and above may still qualify but must provide a personal Nigerian bank statement covering the past six months, with each month reflecting a minimum closing balance of USD 10,000 (or naira equivalent). Standard documentation (passport data page, hotel reservation, etc.) remains required.

Context: U.S. Visa Clampdown

Almost exactly 24 hours earlier, on July 8, 2025, the U.S. Department of State introduced new visa rules for Nigerian citizens, limiting most non-immigrant visas—including tourism, business, student, and exchange (B1/B2, F, J)—to single-entry permits valid for just three months. Visas issued beforehand retain their existing validity and entry allowances.

The Nigerian government has since voiced strong opposition: describing the restrictions as “disproportionate” and requesting that the U.S. reconsider its visa reciprocity schedule in the spirit of cooperation and mutual respect.

Broader Implications

Travel experts see this pattern of restrictions from the U.S. and the UAE as part of a broader crackdown by Western and Gulf states targeting immigration risks associated with overstays and visa violations among African travellers—particularly Nigerians.

Together, these policies are expected to significantly disrupt travel logistics, thwart traditional transit routes, and impose financial hurdles for many — especially young solo travellers and budget tourists. The Nigerian aviation and travel industries could face immediate ripple effects, with demand shifting to alternate hubs and gateways such as Qatar, Jordan, Thailand, Singapore, Maldives, Morocco among others.

Takeaway for Travellers & Industry Professionals

1. Solo Nigerian travellers aged 18–45 should not plan tourist trips via the UAE unless travelling with a qualifying companion.
2. Applicants 45+ must prepare substantial financial documentation—and understand that USD 10,000 per month for six months may preclude many from applying.
3. Nigerians heading to the U.S. must account for single‑entry, 90‑day visa limits and may face repeat application cycles.
4. Travel consultants and airlines should adjust itineraries away from Dubai layovers and alert clients to rapidly evolving entry rules.

Historical Note

Almost a year ago, the UAE lifted a two‑year visa ban on Nigerians that had been imposed in late 2021 during the COVID‑19 wave—a move welcomed at the time as a diplomatic reset. However, this latest tightening suggests that underlying concerns about visa integrity, gaps in Aviation diplomacy between both countries and irregular stays remain unresolved.