Nigerian men travelling without family members will no longer be able to obtain tourist or transit visas to Qatar, following new entry rules introduced by the country’s Ministry of Interior.

The policy, whichh took effect on 5 September 2025, applies to both new and pending visa applications. Under the revised requirements, only women and families are eligible to apply, while men travelling independently are excluded unless accompanied by family members. In addition, applicants must present a confirmed return transfer and proof of accommodation exclusively in five-star hotels before visas are processed.

According to Qatar, the restrictions are aimed at addressing concerns over overstays. The new rules have immediate implications for Nigerians who rely on Qatar as a transit hub to Asia and Europe, as well as for business executives and students travelling for academic or professional purposes.

The decision has raised concerns about its potential impact on bilateral ties. Nigeria and Qatar have previously held discussions over easing entry barriers, including appeals made in 2019 by then Senate President Dr. Bukola Saraki and in 2023 by former Aviation Minister Hadi Sirika.

With the latest measures, independent travel for Nigerian men has effectively been curtailed, limiting mobility and imposing additional costs on those seeking to use Doha as a transit point. (The Guardian)