Leadership of the United Arab Emirates, UAE, has declared the reinstatement of visa services for Nigerian citizens seeking to travel to the country.
This decision comes after a two-year period during which the UAE implemented a visa ban on Nigerians and automatically declined pending visa applications.
A joint announcement by the governments of Nigeria and the UAE titled, ‘Resumption of Visa Services for Nigerians Travelling to the UAE’, said the visa ban was lifted on March 4, 2024.
The statement said the commencement of visa issuance was a “milestone, reflecting the successful outcome of in-depth talks between the two nations and underscoring, “Our shared commitment to strengthening ties, enhancing cultural exchanges and fostering opportunities for economic and social collaborations”.
To ensure a seamless and efficient visa application experience, the UAE has introduced an enhanced document verification process.
The UAE Ambassador to Nigeria, Saleem Saeed Al-Shamsi highlighted the importance of the updated procedure.
“Starting from March 4, 2024, all Nigerian applicants for UAE visas are required to first obtain a document verification number. This essential step according to the UAE is to be completed by visiting the dedicated online Document Verification Hub platform”, he said.
He said, “We are committed to facilitating straightforward and expedited visa applications for Nigerians. The introduction of the Document Verification Number is designed to enhance the integrity of our application process and ensure prompt processing for all applicants”, he added.
Upon receiving the Document Verification Number, applicants can proceed with their visa applications through designated travel agents. Subsequently, the process will be finalized at the Embassy of the UAE in Abuja or Lagos.
The UAE emphasized that this announcement reflects their ongoing commitment to strengthening the robust relationship between the UAE and Nigeria, contributing to the prosperity and well-being of both nations’ citizens.
It is would be recalled that amid the COVID-19 pandemic and concerns regarding the conduct of nationals from various countries in 2022, the UAE imposed a ban on nationals from approximately 20 African countries, including Nigeria, from entering its capital city, Dubai.
