The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has denied knowledge of the visa requirements being reported after lifting its two-year ban on Nigerians.
Japajantis had reported on Monday that part of the new requirements for a UAE visa includes a $ 10,000 bank account balance, a N640,000 fee for document verification (DV) and others.
The report had sparked outrage on social media, with many Nigerians accusing the UAE of extortion. A section of the commenters alleged the Nigerian government had colluded with them to fleece Nigerians.
However, popular investigative journalist, David Hundeyin, suggested the DV hub is not traceable to the UAE government, alleging that a Canadian businessman, Jean Geoffrion, was trying to scam Nigerians.
The UAE government has now denied being involved in charging such exorbitant fees from Nigerians.
The country’s Department of Economy and Tourism told TheCable that the requirements did not emanate from the government, denying any affiliation with the DV hub.
Asked if Nigerians are required to make payments for documents’ verification, TheCable was referred to Dubai’s general directorate of residency and foreigners’ affairs (GDRFAD).
“You will need a personal photo and a copy of your passport which must not have less than six months validity,” the GDRFAD said, while explaining the process for a visa application.
A tourist visa costs about 200-300 dirhams (N60,000 – 90,000) depending on the stay.
“You will also need a travel ticket and valid medical insurance within the UAE,” the GDRFAD added.
Asked about the need to have a bank balance of $10,000, the directorate said: “We are not aware of such requirements. Make your visa applications through the GDRFAD.”
Eche Abu-Obe, spokesperson for Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, told the medium that clarification on the DVN would be sought and provided from the ministry’s office in the Middle East.
