Qatar visa ban now stops solo Nigerian men from getting tourist or transit visas, citing overstay concerns—raising fears over business and travel impact

Qatar visa ban targeting solo Nigerian men has triggered widespread concern after the Gulf state introduced new rules prohibiting male travellers from obtaining tourist or transit visas unless accompanied by family.

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The policy, quietly implemented by Qatar’s Ministry of Interior around September 5, 2025, was confirmed through travel industry sources and applies to both new and pending visa applications.

Under the updated regulations, only families and women are eligible for tourist and transit visas, while men travelling alone are excluded unless they are part of a family unit.

Applicants are also required to secure a confirmed return transfer and book accommodation exclusively in five-star hotels before visas can be processed.

Qatari authorities say the move is designed to curb visa overstays, but for many Nigerians, the decision is a major disruption to personal travel, business trips, and transit through Doha to Asia or Europe.

“This is going to affect a lot of Nigerians who fly Qatar Airways to Asia or Europe,” a travel agent told Vanguard. “For men, it is practically a travel ban if they are not going with their family.”

The Qatar visa ban effectively blocks independent male travellers—including business executives, students, and frequent flyers—from accessing the country, thereby raising travel costs and forcing many to cancel or restructure their plans.

The restriction also risks souring diplomatic and economic ties between Nigeria and Qatar.

With Doha serving as a key transit hub for many West African travellers, especially through Qatar Airways, the impact could be significant on both ends.

This isn’t the first time visa rules have created tension. In 2019, Nigeria’s then Senate President, Bukola Saraki, urged Qatar to ease entry barriers, while in 2023, ex-Aviation Minister Hadi Sirika called for fairer visa policies.

While Qatari officials maintain that the policy is not discriminatory but aimed at reducing illegal stays, critics argue that the blanket exclusion of solo Nigerian men could deepen frustration and limit people-to-people exchange between the two countries.

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For now, male Nigerian travellers must either join family bookings or explore alternative routes—adding pressure to airlines, visa agents, and international relations.