Travel Secrets: Visa-Free Travel For Nigerians With UAE Residency

Dubai is a safe place to live and has excellent opportunities. Although people often say that the cost of living in Dubai is high, especially when it comes to housing. Also, the UAE, being an Arab country, has many strict regulations regarding things like dressing, public display of affection, driving, alcohol drinking and more. You can even get penalised or arrested for certain actions. The issue of racism also exists as well.

However, I discovered a goldmine despite this. The UAE Resident Visa. If you’re living in Dubai or considering moving to Dubai, this is for you. 

The UAE Resident Visa is a powerful tool that opens doors for travel. And for Nigerians like me, that’s a big deal. Our green passport poses certain limitations on countries we can access. Immigration officers often flag it as red, and we face long queues, long visa application forms and other forms of delay, which can be frustrating. However, with the UAE residency visa, you can easily access several countries, visa-free or with a visa on arrival.

In this blog post, I’ll share a list of destinations you can travel to visa-free as a Nigerian with a UAE residency visa.

Where Can You Go? Your No-Visa Bucket List

You can visit selected countries across Asia, Africa, Europe, America and Oceania with your Nigerian passport and UAE residency visa.

Asia

Asian countries are lands of natural beauty. They boast stunning beaches and are home to the world’s highest peaks. Asia is also rich in culture, and you can’t miss out on the delicious street foods in some Asian countries; they will remind you of home.

Let’s explore what each destination has to offer you.

• Malaysia: Visit Petronas Twin Towers in Kuala Lumpur and enjoy panoramic views of the vibrant city. Explore George Town in Penang to enjoy delicious street foods.
• Singapore: Explore Gardens by the Bay and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature. Visit Marina Bay Sands and enjoy views of the skyline and ocean.
• Thailand: Wander through the bustling streets of Bangkok. Relax at the beaches of Phuket, Krabi, or Koh Samui.
• Indonesia: Visit the world’s largest Buddhist temple, Borobudur Temple. Explore Yogyakarta and experience cultural activities such as traditional batik art and puppet shows.
• Armenia: Discover ancient monasteries such as Geghard and Noravank. Visit the Areni region, one of the oldest wine-producing areas in the world. Connect with super-friendly locals.
• Japan: Stroll through the historic streets of Kyoto to discover centuries-old temples. Visit the buzzing Tokyo and explore fashion and tech on a high level.
• Georgia: Explore the old streets of Tbilisi. Visit the picturesque Gergeti Trinity Church. Unwind in the Abanotubani sulfur bathhouses.
• Oman: Relax on the pristine beaches of Salalah and Muscat. Tour the Mutrah Souk in Muscat. It is one of the oldest markets in the Arab world where you can shop for unique items.
• Jordan: Explore the ancient city of Petra, including the Siq, Treasury, and Monastery. Ride through the desert landscapes of Wadi Rum.
• Bahrain: Visit historical landmarks such as the Bahrain Fort and Arad Fort. Also, go shopping in the traditional souks.
• Kuwait: Explore iconic sites like the Kuwait Towers and Grand Mosque. Get local crafts and foods from traditional markets such as Souq Al-Mubarakiya.
• Lebanon: Discover ancient ruins in Baalbek. Enjoy vibrant nightlife in Beirut. Stroll through the historic neighbourhoods of Byblos and Sidon.
• Qatar: Enjoy the views of the modern architecture at The Pearl-Qatar and Doha Corniche. Go on luxurious shopping at Villaggio Mall and Doha Festival City.
• Saudi Arabia: Visit the historic sites of AlUla and Diriyah. Explore the vibrant cities of Riyadh, Jeddah, and Khobar.

The image below shows a view of Gardens by the Bay in Singapore.

Image Source: Canva

Africa

Africa is our home. Our country offers some of the best safari experiences and breathtaking natural wonders. You’ll also get to meet friendly people from other African countries outside of Nigeria.

Let’s see some of the countries you can visit freely. 

• Mauritius: Unwind at the beaches of Belle Mare and Le Morne. Try exciting water sports such as snorkelling, scuba diving, and kitesurfing.
• Seychelles: Relax on Anse Lazio and Anse Source d’Argent beaches. Visit St. Anne Marine National Park and snorkel among the coral reefs. 
• South Africa: Explore the lively cities of Cape Town and Johannesburg. Visit iconic landmarks such as Table Mountain, Blyde River Canyon, and Cape Point. Go on a wildlife safari in Kruger National Park.
• Egypt: Visit iconic locations such as the Pyramids of Giza, Sphinx, and Valley of the Kings. Cruise along the Nile River and discover more of Egypt’s historic landmarks.

The image below shows a viewpoint of the Blyde River Canyon, South Africa.

Image Source: Canva: Getty Images 

Europe

European countries are steeped in historical monuments, structures, and architecture that take the breath away. You’ll also be amazed by the wonders on the beaches. 

Let’s see some of the European countries you can visit, visa-free.

• Serbia: Explore the history of Belgrade. Visit medieval fortresses like the Golubac Fortress on the Danube River.
• Montenegro: Wander the old town of Kotor and enjoy scenic views of the Bay. Visit the Budva beach for a relaxing time.

Americas

American countries are rich with natural beauty, amazing landscapes, and cultures. It is a region where lush rainforests, colonial towns, and amazing local markets can be explored.

Let’s see the countries you can visit here. 

• Dominica: Enjoy tranquil beaches like Mero Beach and Batibou Beach. Go on a hike to see the cascading falls of water from Trafalgar Falls. 
• Ecuador: Discover the unique wildlife and volcanic landscapes of the Galapagos Islands. Walk through the colonial streets of Quito and Cuenca in the Andean highlands.

The image below shows palm trees lining the beach, depicting the tranquil beaches  in America.

Image Source: Pixabay

Oceania

Oceanian countries are endowed with lush islands. It is a land of peace and untouched nature, just like some of the countries I’ve visited in Africa. You’ll always find something fascinating in Oceania and get plenty of seafood. When you visit Denarau Island in Fiji, you will enjoy some relaxations on the beaches. You will also get to enjoy some exciting water sports such as kayaking and jet skiing.

Final Thoughts 

UAE residency gives Nigerians easier access to several countries worldwide, and I strongly encourage you to make the most of it. However, always do appropriate research before you pack your bags for any trips. 

Keep your Emirates ID with you always. Book a return ticket and confirm your hotel accommodation. Ensure you double-check the entry rules. Some are complete visa fees, while others are visa on arrival.

Which of these countries would you like to visit first? Let me know in the comments below.

Don’t forget to listen to Travelradio.live and enjoy unfiltered travel stories. 

Also read: 2025 Visa-Free Destinations for Nigerian Passport Holders