On October 21, 2022, the UAE government imposed a travel 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 successful discussions between Nigeria and the UAE.
Since this announcement, there has been a flurry of media activity surrounding changes to visa processes and requirements. Following the lifting of the visa ban, the UAE introduced more stringent controls on the visa application process, including the need for document verification to ensure the authenticity of submitted documents.
The Document Verification Number (DVN) fee was set at 640,000 NGN by the website managing the process, documentverificationhub.ae. Additionally, a bank balance of 15 million naira was required as a precondition to obtain a visa. These stringent fees and banking requirements have sparked significant concern and backlash among Nigerian travelers and stakeholders.
In response to the widespread concern, the Federal Government of Nigeria (FGN) has officially requested that the UAE reconsider these fees. While the decision to lower these conditions rests solely with the UAE, the Nigerian government has been actively advocating for a reduction.
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. Several sources confirm that the UAE is seriously considering revising the fee structure.
A reduction in DVN and visa fees would alleviate the financial burden on Nigerian travelers, 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 more Nigerians with the opportunity to explore business and investment opportunities in the UAE.
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 also improve Nigeria’s image in the UAE, hoping that more credible individuals will be able to travel and do business in the UAE with ease, thereby removing negative perceptions caused by a few Nigerians involved in criminal activities.
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