Nigerian men traveling without family members are now restricted from obtaining tourist or transit visas to Qatar, following new regulations introduced by the country’s Ministry of Interior. The new travel rules, which took effect in early September 2025, have immediately raised concerns among Nigerians, particularly businessmen, students, and frequent travelers who rely on Doha as a major transit hub to Asia and Europe.
According to reports from travel agencies and industry insiders, the directive affects both fresh visa applications and those still under review. Under the updated policy, only women or families are eligible to apply for tourist and transit visas. Male applicants traveling alone are excluded, unless they are accompanied by relatives. In addition, the rules require confirmed return tickets and accommodation strictly in five-star hotels before any visa request can be approved.
The changes are officially aimed at tackling the problem of visa overstays, but for many Nigerians, the implications are severe. The restrictions mean that male travelers who depend on Qatar Airways and Doha International Airport as a connecting route will face higher travel costs and reduced mobility. Some may even have to cancel or completely restructure their travel plans.
“This is practically a travel ban on Nigerian men who usually transit alone through Doha to Asia or Europe,” a source familiar with the policy explained. Business executives and students in particular are expected to feel the heaviest impact.
Authorities in Qatar maintain that the policy is intended to prevent abuse of the visa system, but analysts warn that the decision could strain diplomatic and social ties between the two countries. Nigeria has previously raised concerns over visa restrictions, including in 2019 when then Senate President Bukola Saraki appealed to Qatar for easier entry, and again in 2023 when former Aviation Minister Hadi Sirika called for fairer treatment of Nigerians. The new rules appear to be an even tougher step in that direction.
For now, Nigerian men wishing to visit or transit through Qatar must either travel with their families or explore alternative routes, while awaiting further clarification or possible diplomatic engagement to address the issue.