On October 21, 2022, the UAE government announced a ban on 20 African countries, including Nigeria.
However, on July 15,
2024, Nigeria’s Information Minister, Mohammed Idris, announced that the ban
“had been lifted following a mutually beneficial discussion” between Nigeria
and the UAE.
Since this announcement,
there has been a frenzy of information activities in the media. Visa Fees and
Banking Requirements: Changes are imminent and reveal a source close to the
UAE.
Following the recent
lifting of the visa ban, the UAE imposed more controls on the visa process,
requiring document verification to ensure the authenticity of documents
submitted by applicants.
The Document
Verification Number (DVN) fee was structured at 640,000 NGN by the website
managing the DVN process, document verification hub.ae. Additionally, a bank
balance of 15 million naira was requested as a precondition to obtain a visa.
These stringent fees and banking requirements have caused significant concern
and backlash among Nigerian travellers and stakeholders.
Potential Review and
Reduction of Fees: In response to the widespread concern, the Federal
Government of Nigeria (FGN) requested through official channels that the UAE
reconsider these fees.
However, only the UAE
has the power to lower these stringent conditions, something the Nigerian
government has been actively pushing for. Sources close to the UAE have
revealed that a new and revised rate for DVN and the bank balance requirement is
imminent.
This potential review
aims to make it more affordable for Nigerians to visit the UAE for tourism,
business, and family visits. The FG’s efforts appear to have been successful,
with several sources confirming that the UAE is seriously considering revising
the fee structure. Impact on Nigerian Travelers: A reduction in DVN and visa
fees would alleviate the financial burden on Nigerian travellers, making it
easier for them to visit the UAE.
This move is expected to
foster stronger ties between the two nations, encouraging more tourism,
business engagements, and cultural exchanges. Lowering the fees would likely
increase the number of Nigerian visitors to the UAE, boosting tourism and
economic activities. It would also provide an opportunity for more Nigerians to
explore business and investment opportunities in the UAE.
Timeline and
Implementation: Although the exact timeline for the fee reduction has not been
announced, changes are anticipated soon. Detailed guidelines and updated fee
structures are expected following the review.
The potential reduction
of visa and DVN fees underscores the UAE’s commitment to maintaining strong
bilateral relations with Nigeria. This development signifies a positive step
towards more inclusive and affordable travel policies, benefiting Nigerian
citizens and enhancing diplomatic ties.
The DVN will improve
Nigeria’s image in the UAE, hoping that more credible people will be able to
travel & do business in UAE with ease and remove negative perception from
the few Nigerians involved in crime
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