Lagos, Nigeria — A growing number of Nigerian travelers are turning their backs on traditional summer destinations like the United Arab Emirates, Europe, and the United States, opting instead for visa-friendly African countries amid rising airfares, a weakened naira, and tightening entry restrictions.
Travel industry experts report a marked shift toward destinations such as Kenya, Mauritius, Morocco, Rwanda, Egypt, and even Qatar, all of which offer simplified visa processes or visa-free access, making them attractive to Nigerian holidaymakers navigating currency pressures and costly international travel.
“Travel to Dubai has dropped sharply since the UAE imposed stricter visa rules,” said Susan Akporaiye, CEO of Topaz Travels and former president of the National Association of Nigeria Travel Agencies (NANTA). “That demand has shifted to destinations like Egypt, Morocco, Mauritius, and even Gambia. We’ve seen increased air traffic to these regions this summer.”
Akporaiye added that outbound travel to Europe and the U.S. remains sluggish, citing airfare hikes and the impact of foreign exchange fluctuations. “Summer travel isn’t what it used to be. Those going abroad now are mostly children heading home for holidays or parents visiting them. Everyone’s adjusting to the situation.”
Visa accessibility and lower costs are playing a critical role in destination decisions. For instance, Mauritius allows Nigerians to enter visa-free for up to 14 days, while Rwanda offers visa-free entry with a $50 fee and permits stays of up to 30 days. Egypt provides visas on arrival for $25, and Qatar offers e-visas at $28, which must be applied for online.
These changes have sparked interest across a broader demographic. Ikechi Uko, a travel expert, said while wealthy Nigerians continue to travel globally, the middle class once regular visitors to Dubai, the U.S., or Europe are now focusing on destinations with easier visa policies.
“A research project I conducted in 2024 revealed a sharp rise in travel to visa-accessible locations like Rwanda, Kenya, Mauritius, and Morocco,” Uko noted. “With Kenya and Rwanda recently lifting visa requirements for Nigerian passport holders, we expect even higher travel volumes this summer.”
Morocco has also improved its accessibility, with easier visa-on-arrival procedures and increased flight connectivity. Royal Air Maroc now operates 10 weekly flights from Lagos and expanded service from Abuja, signaling growing demand. The country is leveraging its role as host of major continental sports tournaments like WAFCON and the upcoming AFCON, further boosting its tourism appeal.
Yet despite the shift in traveler interest, airfares remain elevated across most destinations. As of August, economy return flights from Lagos to Kenya, Morocco, or Mauritius range between ₦1.4 million and ₦2.5 million, while business class tickets hit ₦4.5 million to ₦5 million.
For comparison, average economy fares to London hover around ₦2 million, while business class fares to the U.S. can exceed ₦6 million. Lagos-Dubai return tickets now cost around ₦1.4 million in economy, further reflecting how inaccessible traditional destinations have become for many Nigerians.
Jumoke Lawanson, Communications Director at PFZ Limited and a frequent traveler, emphasized the growing popularity of destinations that combine simplified visa procedures with tourist appeal.
“Visa availability is a strong travel motivator. Countries like Seychelles, Maldives, Egypt, and Mauritius, all offering visas on arrival, are now being bundled into tour packages by agents,” she said.
Lawanson added that Qatar is also emerging as a strong alternative to Dubai, offering luxury at relatively lower costs. “It offers comparable attractions and comfort, and at just $28 for an e-visa, it's becoming more popular. Even Lebanon is attracting attention for offering visas on arrival for under $8,” she said.
As economic pressures weigh on Nigerian consumers and traditional travel hubs tighten entry rules, African destinations offering easier access, cultural appeal, and competitive pricing are emerging as this summer’s top choices.