‎Qatar has banned Nigerian men from travelling alone to the country.

‎This development means that, Nigerian men travelling alone will no longer be able to obtain tourist or transit visas to Qatar.

‎This is following the new rules introduced by the Qatar’s Ministry of Interior.

‎According to the country’s authorities, the decision is meant to curb overstays.

The policy took effect around September 5, 2025 but was first reported by industry sources and travel agencies last week and, it applies immediately to both new and pending visa applications.

‎According to the new rules, only women or families are eligible to apply for visas to Qatar while men travelling independently are excluded unless accompanied by family or a woman.

‎The development also demands that applicants book a confirmed return transfer and secure accommodation only in five-star hotels before visas can be processed.

This development has sparked concerns that it could affect business, family connections, and wider relations between both nations as many Nigerians, particularly male business executives, students, and those using Doha as a connecting hub to Asia and Europe are greatly affected by the new rules.

‎However, this is not the first time visa restrictions have created friction.

‎In 2019, then Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki, had appealed to Qatar to ease entry barriers for Nigerians.

‎Then, in 2023, former Aviation Minister, Hadi Sirika, urged for a fairer visa system.

‎Yet again, the new rules seems to be a lot tougher, especially on Nigerian men.