Qatar Restricts Solo Travel for Nigerian Men Under New Visa Rules

Nigerian men travelling alone are no longer eligible for tourist or transit visas to Qatar, following new regulations introduced by the Gulf nation’s Ministry of Interior.

Authorities say the measure, which took effect around September 5, 2025, is intended to curb overstays. However, it has sparked concerns that the restrictions could disrupt business travel, family ties, and broader relations between Nigeria and Qatar.

The policy, first reported by travel agencies and industry sources last week, applies immediately to both new and pending applications. Under the revised rules, only women and families may apply for visas, while men travelling independently are excluded unless accompanied by relatives.

Applicants must also present proof of confirmed return transfers and book accommodation exclusively in five-star hotels before visas can be processed.

For many Nigerians — particularly male executives, students, and those using Doha as a transit hub to Asia and Europe — the new rules represent a major setback.

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

While Qatari officials maintain the rules are designed to stop overstays, critics warn the restrictions could damage bilateral ties and limit people-to-people exchanges. Male travellers now face the costly choice of cancelling plans or restructuring trips under stricter requirements.

This is not the first time visa policies have created tensions. In 2019, then Senate President Bukola Saraki appealed to Qatari authorities to ease entry restrictions for Nigerians, while in 2023, former Aviation Minister Hadi Sirika also called for a fairer system.

Still, the latest rules appear even more stringent, especially for Nigerian men.