LAGOS — The United Arab Emirates has implemented new, significantly tougher entry requirements for Nigerian travellers, including a complete suspension of transit visa applications and a clampdown on tourist visa eligibility for certain age groups.

Multiple travel agencies confirmed the changes on Tuesday, citing a directive issued by Dubai immigration authorities that took immediate effect.

According to the new policy, Nigerian nationals aged between 18 and 45 will no longer be eligible for tourist visas unless accompanied, effectively blocking solo travel for young adults within that bracket.

For those aged 45 and above, visa applications must now be supported by a personal bank statement spanning six months, with a minimum monthly balance of $10,000 (or the naira equivalent) to qualify for a tourist visa.

“For Nigerian nationals, please bear in mind that an applicant aged 18 to 45 years travelling alone is not eligible for the tourist visa category,” the updated directive states.

“An applicant who is 45 years or above must provide a single Nigerian personal bank statement for a period of the last six months, with each month’s end balance reflecting a minimum ending balance of $10,000.”

The statement further advised applicants to ensure all standard supporting documents — such as hotel reservations and passport data pages — are still submitted in line with the existing requirements.

Transit Visas Suspended

In addition to tourist visa restrictions, UAE authorities have halted all applications for transit visas from Nigerian nationals, a move expected to further disrupt travel plans, particularly for those using Dubai as a stopover hub to Asia, Europe, or North America.

While no official reason has been provided for the escalated restrictions, travel industry insiders say the measures reflect rising scrutiny of Nigerian travellers by Gulf authorities, possibly linked to security, immigration compliance, and overstay concerns.

Industry Reacts

Travel agents in Lagos said the new rules are likely to result in a sharp decline in Nigerian travel to the UAE, particularly to Dubai, which has long been a leading destination for business, leisure, and shopping tourism from West Africa.

“This will definitely affect travel volumes — especially for young, solo travellers and those in the SME space who frequently shuttle between Lagos and Dubai,” one travel consultant told The Punch.

The development marks a new chapter in what has been a tense and often unpredictable visa relationship between Nigeria and the UAE, following previous episodes of restrictions, flight suspensions, and diplomatic negotiations.

As of now, no official comment has been issued by the Nigerian government on the matter.

Travellers are urged to consult with licensed travel agencies or UAE visa application centres for the most current requirements before making any plans.