By Abiola Olawale
The Qatari government has announced its decision to bar Nigerian men from travelling solo to the country.
The Qatari Ministry of Interior said the new visa regulations for Nigerian men travellers came after recent cases of overstays.
Under the new policy, Nigerian men must show intent to travel with their wives, sisters, or relatives before they would be granted a Qatari visa.
Also, Nigerian men must confirm a return ticket alongside hotel reservations before a tourist or transit visa can be processed.
In addition, only 5-star hotel bookings will now be accepted for visa qualification.
“The Qatar Ministry of Interior has announced updated visa regulations for Nigerian travellers, following recent cases of overstays.
“A confirmed return transfer must now be booked alongside your hotel before your tourist or transit visa can be processed.
“Only females or families may apply. Male travellers are no longer eligible unless accompanied by their family. Only 5-star hotels are now accepted for visa qualification,” the notice read in part.
According to Qatar, the new requirements took effect immediately and apply to all pending visa applications.
