Nigeria, a dynamic nation in West Africa, provides tourists with a distinctive and varied cultural experience. Nigeria boasts a rich and colourful history that is sure to captivate and enchant visitors, as well as more than 250 ethnic groups and more than 500 languages spoken there. Nigeria offers something for everyone, whether you want to explore the busy city of Lagos, unwind on the beaches in Calabar, or discover the history of the ancient Benin kingdom. You can go on a wildlife safari in one of Nigeria’s many national parks or sample the local cuisine, music, and art. Nigerians are renowned for their warmth and willingness to share their culture with guests. Nigeria is quickly rising to prominence as a top tourist destination due to its thriving entertainment sector and burgeoning economy. If you are a citizen of the UAE and want to travel to Nigeria, you must first apply for a Nigeria tourist visa from the UAE. Learn more about Nigeria visa for UAE residents.
Nigeria Visa For UAE residents
The general procedures you must follow to apply for a tourist visa to Nigeria from the UAE can change occasionally, so it is best to check with the Nigerian Embassy or Consulate in the UAE for the most recent information and requirements before applying for a tourist visa.
Visa requirements for travellers from Nigeria:
Possess a passport issued by the UAE that is valid for six months after the intended stay in Nigeria.
Proof of departure from Nigeria and subsequent travel.
Visit or call the Nigerian embassy or consulate that is closest to your home if you need information on visa requirements for Nigeria, available visa types, or how to apply from the United Arab Emirates.
Reasons to Visit Nigeria
Various cultures
Nigeria is a cultural melting pot, with more than 250 ethnic groups and 500 languages spoken there. The country is well known for its rich traditional music, dance, and visual arts, as well as its modern pop culture.
Delicious Food
The delicious country has a long culinary history, and its food reflects the many different cultural influences it has encountered. Suya, jollof rice, pounded yam, egusi soup, and pounded yam are some of the most well-liked dishes (spicy grilled meat).
Stunning Scenery
From the rocky Lagos coast to the undulating hills of the Jos Plateau, Nigeria has some of the most picturesque landscapes in all of West Africa. Tourists can explore the country’s natural wonders, such as Yankari National Reserve and Obudu Mountain Resort.
Adventure Sports
In Nigeria, adventure sports like kayaking, horseback riding, rafting, and rock climbing are accessible. Other ways for tourists to explore the breathtaking landscapes of the country include biking and other outdoor activities.
Wildlife
Elephants, gorillas, and chimpanzees are just a few of the creatures that make Nigeria their home. Tourists can go on safari to see these animals in their natural habitat.
Historic Places
Nigeria has a long and complex history that spans from its pre-colonial kingdoms to its colonial past and struggles for independence. Tourists can explore the historical sites of the nation, such as the ancient city of Ife and the slave port of Badagry.
Festivals
Nigeria is well known for its vibrant festivals, which are celebrated throughout the year. Attending celebrations like the Lagos Carnival, the Osun-Osogbo Festival, and the Durbar Festival allows visitors to immerse themselves in the rich culture and traditions of the country.
Friendly locals
Visitors can easily feel at home in Nigeria because of its well-known reputation for hospitality and friendliness. You can expect to make new friends and benefit from the locals’ hospitality while you’re here.
Nollywood
The second-largest film industry in the world is Nollywood, which is produced in Nigeria. Bollywood is the largest. Visitors can watch Nollywood films and discover more about the country’s film industry. In 2020, the biggest streaming service in the world, Netflix, established a presence in Africa to assist African filmmakers in telling their own stories.
Music
The country is well known for having a thriving music scene that offers a wide range of genres that reflect its rich cultural heritage. Attend concerts and festivals to hear this music live. Many well-known musicians from around the world were born in Nigeria, including Burna Boy, CKay, Rema, Wizkid, Davido, and Tems.
Top Destinations to Visit Nigeria
Abuja
Abuja, the capital of Nigeria, is conveniently located in the middle of the country. This city has one of the most beautifully planned cities in the entire world, and the National Stadium, National Christian Centre, and National Mosque are all there. There are also many other government buildings there, including the Presidential Palace and the National Assembly. One can see Aso Rock, a 400-metre-tall monolith, from every part of the city. Tourists can also enjoy the Thought Pyramid Art Centre and the Usuma Lower Dam.
Lagosv
The Lekki Ikoyi Bridge, the Lagos Lagoon, the Marina, and the National Theatre are just a few of the truly magnificent architectural marvels that can be found in Lagos, Nigeria’s largest city. Anyone who enjoys and is interested in art should visit the Nike Art Gallery. In 2009, Nike Davies-Okundaye opened this modern, five-story art gallery in Lagos, a state in the southwest. The gallery, which features over 20,000 pieces by different Nigerian artists, unquestionably fosters an environment that is favourable for the development and appreciation of African art.
Benin City
Benin City serves as the state of Edo’s capital. Its pre-colonial roots make it one of the nation’s oldest cities. Because of its distinctive history and culture, Nigerians must visit this location. The city is renowned for its bronze sculptures and other works of art, some of which are currently on display in foreign museums. The National Museum, Okomu National Park, Igun Street, Ogiamen Palace, the Igue Festival, and the Royal Palace of the Oba of Benin are a few of Benin’s top tourist destinations. Benin City is a fantastic destination for foodies. At food markets, eateries, and street vendors positioned all over the city, you can sample a variety of mouthwatering regional cuisine, including pounded yam and ogbono soup.
Kano
The state’s capital, Kano, is a significant agricultural and commercial hub. It is the oldest city in West Africa and has a long mediaeval history. The charming city of Kano, which is situated in the southernmost part of the Sahara Desert, is well known for its many festivals and horseback riding. The Emir’s Palace, the Murtala Muhammad Library, the Gidan Makama Museum, the Kajuru Castle, and Dala Hill are some of Kano City’s most popular sights. Leatherwork, weaving, and fabric dyeing are the three mainstays of Kano’s traditional arts and crafts. Visitors can also access the architectural remnants of buildings from the fifteenth century.
Calabar
Calabar, the charming capital of Cross River State, is well-known for its extensive history and palm oil trade. The city is home to the Duke Town Church, one of Nigeria’s oldest churches. This area is home to many primates, including the Cross River gorilla and the Nigeria-Cameroon chimpanzee. Calabar, a striking and hospitable city, is perched on a hilltop with a view of the Calabar River. It is also regarded as the greenest and cleanest city in Nigeria. In addition to other attractions, the city is home to a well-known annual funfair, numerous wildlife sanctuaries and reserves, and the esteemed University of Calabar.
Yankari National Park
North-eastern African bush elephants, African buffalo, West African lions, and other magnificent wildlife can be found in Nigeria’s Yankari National Park. Additionally included are the Marshall Caves, Dukkey Wells, Wikki, Dimmil, Mawulgo, and Gwana Warm Springs. The park is also home to some of the earliest indications of human habitation, such as paintings and engravings on rocks like the Tunga Dutse. Visitors can take part in a variety of activities at Yankari National Park, such as viewing animals in their natural settings, swimming in the warm Wikki springs, visiting the park’s on-site museum to learn about history and biology, and camping out at Wikki Camp.
Cross River National Park
The Oban and Okwangwo regions make up the majority of Nigeria’s Cross River National Park, which is found in the southeast of the nation. It is home to many different animal species, including gorillas, birds, chimpanzees, and rare butterflies. The Agbokim and Qua waterfalls are two of the park’s most notable natural landmarks. There is so much to see in Cross River National Park that it would be sinful not to go there while travelling through Nigeria.
Gashaka-Gumti National Park
Gashaka-Gumti, Nigeria’s largest national park, is located in the north-eastern states of Taraba and Adamawa. In addition to Chappal Waddi, Nigeria’s tallest mountain, it is home to numerous lush forests, grasslands, and valleys. The park is home to the majority of Nigeria’s chimpanzees, in addition to rare animals like the African elephant, Adamawa mountain reedbuck, roan and kob antelope, hippos, and buffalo, numerous bird species, and endangered plants like the red sunbird bush. The best time to travel is during the dry season, which runs from December to March.
Kainji National Park
Kainji National Park is located in the neighbouring states of Kwara and Niger. The Borgu Game Reserve, the Zurguma Game Reserve, and the Kainji Lake make up its three divisions. The park is home to many different kinds of animals, including lions, elephants, cheetahs, honey badgers, antelope, lizards, snakes, turtles, monkeys, hippos, crocodiles, birds, and many more. Visitors can also benefit from first-class lodging, fine dining, a tour of the hydropower plant, and extra camping amenities. For the best weather, travellers should plan their trip between December and June.
