Dubai based carrier Emirates Airlines may have to exit Nigeria again owing to the unpleasant situation of empty seats on its flight.
The airline that once packed flights to the brim with Nigerian travellers, made a decision to resume its Lagos-Dubai flights after a two year hiatus in 2024 but it has not been the welcome the airline expected as travelers on the route have thinned out owing to the UAE’s recent visa policies.
Resumption of Flight
Months ago, the Nigerian government and the UAE reached a diplomatic handshake, paving the way for Emirates Airlines to return to Nigeria but when the airline finally touched down in Lagos,it was faced rows of unclaimed seats due to many of the Nigerians who once filled those flights struggling to secure UAE visas.
Dubai Visa Restrictions
For years, Dubai was a favourite for Nigerian business travellers, tourists, and the occasional big spender looking to unwind in luxury but with visa restrictions tightened after years of diplomatic friction between both countries flights on the route have suffered.
Air Peace Looking to Pounce
Nigeria’s Air Peace has fought to expand its presence on the route, and with new bilateral agreements in place, it may finally get a fair shot. If Emirates Airlines decides to leave for good this time, Air Peace could gain ground, providing Nigerian travellers with an alternative that does not require jumping through visa hoops.
If Emirates decides to pull the plug, it won’t be the first time. But this time, it won’t be Nigerian authorities holding the airline’s money—it will be the airline itself keeping passengers out due to its stringent visa policies.
