UAE in its bid to ensure a seamless and efficient visa application, also introduced an enhanced document verification process
The United Arab Emirates (UAE), has finally lifted its embargo and resumed visa services for Nigerian citizens wishing to visit the country.
This decision comes two years after the Arab nation imposed a visa ban on Nigerians and citizens of other selected countries, rejecting pending visa applications in the process.
A joint announcement by the governments of Nigeria and the UAE entitled, “Resumption of Visa Services for Nigerians Travelling to the UAE’, dated March 4, 2024, stated that the commencement of visa issuance which commenced on March 4, 2024, is a milestone, reflecting the successful outcome of in-depth talks between the two nations and underscoring, “Our shared commitment to strengthening ties, enhancing cultural exchanges and fostering opportunities for economic and social collaborations.”
Both nations also noted that the achievement follows the discussions between President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates, marking a significant step forward in their bilateral cooperation.
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However, to ensure a seamless and efficient visa application experience, the UAE has introduced an enhanced document verification process.
Starting from March 4, 2024, all Nigerian applicants for UAE visas are required to first obtain a document verification number. This essential step according to the UAE is to be completed by visiting the dedicated online Document Verification Hub platform https/documentverificationhub.com).
The UAE Ambassador to Nigeria, Saleem Saeed Al-Shamsi highlighted the importance of this updated procedure.
He said, “We are committed to facilitating straightforward and expedited visa applications for Nigerians. The introduction of the Document Verification Number is designed to enhance the integrity of our application process and ensure prompt processing for all applicants.”
After obtaining the Document Verification Number, applicants can proceed with their visa applications through designated travel agents, after which the process will be completed at the Embassy of the UAE in Abuja or Lagos.
The announcement, the UAE said signifies, “our ongoing efforts to enhance the strong ties between the UAE and Nigeria, contributing to the prosperity and well-being of our people.”
Prior to this development, the UAE had in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic and behavior of some nationals of other countries banned nationals of some 20 African countries including Nigeria from entering its capital city, Dubai in 2022
This was followed by a spat between Nigeria and UAE over the procedure for handling travellers entering Dubai during the pandemic which Nigeria frowned at.
The decision among others forced Emirates Airlines to exit Nigeria.