Nigeria and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have announced forthcoming talks to address the persistent challenges Nigerians face in securing UAE visas, a move aimed at easing travel woes and deepening economic ties. This development follows a high-level meeting between Salem Saeed Alshamsi, the UAE Ambassador to Nigeria, and Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, Nigeria’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs.
For many Nigerians, the allure of Dubai—a bustling hub of commerce and tourism—has been marred by uncertainty surrounding visa approvals. “Dubai has become a preferred destination for many Nigerians,” Odumegwu-Ojukwu acknowledged, highlighting the significant economic footprint of Nigerian travelers. She revealed that in 2015, nearly one million Nigerians visited the UAE, contributing between $100 million and $150 million in visa fees and over $1 billion in overall spending. “We need clarity on this issue,” she stated, expressing concerns over the opaque nature of current visa policies.
As someone who has followed the fluctuations in international relations, I understand the frustration that visa restrictions can cause. It’s not just about tourism; it’s about the ability to conduct business, pursue educational opportunities, and maintain family connections. The human element is undeniable.
The minister’s remarks underscored a crucial point: while Nigerians have significantly invested in the UAE’s economy, the relationship has been largely one-sided. She advocated for mutually beneficial collaborations in sectors like power and renewable energy, where Nigeria holds immense potential.
“There have been numerous concerns about UAE visa policies, even among top government officials. Nigerians have heavily invested in real estate, tourism, and business activities in the UAE,” Odumegwu-Ojukwu emphasized. This statement resonates with many Nigerians who have felt a sense of imbalance in the bilateral relationship.
Ambassador Alshamsi, in response, sought to reassure that the UAE is committed to strengthening ties with Nigeria. He stated, “I have zero visa rejections since I arrived in Nigeria a year and a half ago. From July 2024 alone, we have issued over 700 tourism visas.” He also clarified that a designated agent handles applications for private travelers.
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“Sometimes, we may have disagreements, but there is nothing personal. We remain partners and will continue working together,” Alshamsi said, stressing the importance of ongoing dialogue. This sentiment is vital for maintaining a healthy diplomatic relationship.
The planned Nigeria-UAE Joint Commission meeting, following the 2022 edition hosted by the UAE, is expected to address pending Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) and further enhance economic cooperation. This meeting will be pivotal in solidifying agreements and charting a course for future collaborations. It is also expected to address the need for clear and concise guidlines for visa applications.
Beyond economic and visa matters, Odumegwu-Ojukwu expressed gratitude for the UAE’s humanitarian aid, including relief materials for flood victims and vaccines for chickenpox patients. This gesture underscores the multifaceted nature of the relationship, extending beyond trade and travel to encompass mutual support during times of need.
The upcoming talks represent a crucial opportunity to address the concerns of Nigerians and foster a more equitable and transparent relationship between the two nations. As they move forward, the focus will be on ensuring that the benefits of this partnership are shared by both countries.
