Economic ties between Nigeria and the United Arab Emirates continue to strengthen, with non-oil trade between both countries reaching $5 billion in 2025, up from $4.3 billion the previous year.

During a meeting in Abuja, UAE Ambassador Salem Saeed Al-Shamsi disclosed that First Abu Dhabi Bank, the largest bank in the UAE, is preparing to commence operations in Lagos, while Etihad Airways plans to begin direct flights to Abuja before the end of the year.

The ambassador also announced that visa access for Nigerians has improved significantly, noting that more than 15,000 Nigerians travelled to the UAE in the past year following the easing of restrictions.

Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, welcomed the developments, describing them as evidence of growing cooperation between both nations. She expressed optimism that ongoing economic agreements would further boost trade, investment, and business opportunities.

With trade volumes expected to climb to $8 billion by 2027, both countries are positioning for deeper economic partnerships driven by investment, aviation, banking, and expanded commercial exchanges.