UAE Lifts Visa Ban on Nigerian Travelers, Resumes Flights

Abuja, Nigeria (CNN) -- The United Arab Emirates has lifted a year-long visa ban imposed on Nigerian travelers, authorities in the West African country said Monday.

The restriction placed by the UAE last October was lifted following negotiations between Nigeria's new President Bola Tinubu and UAE leader Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

Both men met earlier on Monday in the UAE capital Abu Dhabi and concluded what the Nigerian government described as "a historic agreement" that will also pave the way for the immediate resumption of flights between both countries.

"President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and President of the United Arab Emirates, Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, on Monday in Abu Dhabi, have finalized a historic agreement, which has resulted in the immediate cessation of the visa ban placed on Nigerian travelers," a statement by Nigeria's presidential spokesman Ajuri Ngelale said.

"Furthermore, by this historic agreement, both Etihad Airlines and Emirates Airlines are to immediately resume flight schedules into and out of Nigeria, without any further delay," the statement added.

Flights between both countries were stopped last year after Dubai's Emirates airline suspended its operations in Nigeria citing trapped revenues.

The UAE's Dubai emirate has been a popular destination for Nigerian travelers for many years but visas to the West Africans and nationals of 19 other African states were halted last year for undisclosed reasons.

This development comes as a relief to Nigerian travelers who have been eagerly waiting for the visa ban to be lifted. The UAE has historically been a popular destination for Nigerians due to its vibrant cities, luxurious hotels, and world-class shopping centers.

Emirates Airlines, one of the leading carriers in the UAE, had suspended its operations in Nigeria due to the financial implications caused by the visa ban. The resumption of flights by Emirates Airlines will not only facilitate travel for Nigerians but will also contribute to the recovery of the airline industry.

Etihad Airlines, another major airline in the UAE, will also resume its flight schedules to and from Nigeria. This move will provide travelers with more options and convenience for their journeys.

The lifting of the visa ban and the resumption of flights between Nigeria and the UAE mark the beginning of a new chapter in the bilateral relations between the two countries. It is expected to boost tourism, trade, and cultural exchange.

The historic agreement between President Bola Tinubu and UAE leader Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan showcases the commitment of both nations to strengthen their ties and resolve any outstanding issues through dialogue and mutual cooperation.

The news of the visa ban being lifted and flights resuming has been met with enthusiasm by Nigerian travelers. Social media platforms are buzzing with discussions, with many expressing their excitement and relief at being able to visit the UAE once again.

The tourism industry in Nigeria is also expected to witness a surge as people plan their trips to the UAE. Hotels, travel agencies, and tour operators are gearing up to cater to the increased demand for travel to the UAE.

Overall, the lifting of the UAE visa ban on Nigerian travelers and the resumption of flights is a positive development that opens doors for renewed exchanges and opportunities between the two nations.

As the travel industry gradually recovers from the impact of the pandemic, this news brings hope to many who have been eagerly waiting to explore the UAE and experience its rich culture and attractions.

With a renewed sense of optimism and a desire to reconnect, Nigerian travelers can once again look forward to visiting the United Arab Emirates.

Let the adventures begin!

Source of content: OOO News 2023-09-11 News

More detailed, more comprehensive, fresher news, please visit OOO NEWS.