United Arab Emirates place blanket ban on the issuance of visas to all Nigerians

UNITED Arab Emirates (UAE) immigration authorities have placed a blanket ban on all Nigerian visa applications with immediate effect pointing out that all submitted applications are rejected and fees non-refundable.

In a dramatic development, the UAE announced the Draconian move yesterday, informing all of its trade partners in Nigeria including travel agencies. Although no reason was given for the ban, the Dubai authorities declared that all applications were on hold until issues between the UAE government and the Nigerian government were resolved.

One UAE government spokesman said: “All Dubai applications submitted are now rejected. It is  general for Nigerians and approvals are on hold at the moment. Kindly advise your clients to resubmit applications when the issue is resolved between both governments.”

Another industry source added: “It is true, it was issued yesterday. The Dubai immigration did not state when the ban would be lifted but for now, everything is on hold.”

An Air Peace customer representative said that the airline is still flying to Dubai with those who already have a valid visa. He added that if any changes were to occur as regards flight for Nigerians, it would be duly communicated, adding that no issue had been raised at the moment.