Economic relations between Nigeria and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) are gaining fresh momentum, with non-oil trade between both countries rising to $5 billion in 2025 and projections suggesting even stronger growth in the coming years.
The development reflects growing cooperation in trade, finance, aviation and investment, as both nations intensify efforts to strengthen one of Africa's most significant international economic partnerships.
A major milestone in the expanding relationship is the planned entry of the First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB) into Lagos. The move is expected to boost financial cooperation, facilitate investment flows and improve cross-border business transactions between Nigerian and UAE-based companies.
The UAE Ambassador to Nigeria, Salem Saeed Al-Shamsi, disclosed the latest trade figures during a meeting with Nigeria's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, in Abuja.
According to the ambassador, non-oil trade volumes increased from $4.3 billion in 2024 to $5 billion in 2025, representing another significant step in the economic relationship between the two countries. He expressed optimism that the figure could rise to approximately $8 billion by 2027 as investment opportunities expand and regulatory frameworks become more supportive.
Etihad Set for Abuja Operations
Beyond trade and banking, aviation cooperation is also set to receive a major boost.
Al-Shamsi announced that Etihad Airways will commence flights to Abuja before the end of the year. The new route is expected to improve connectivity between Nigeria and the UAE, making travel easier for business executives, investors, tourists and government officials.
Industry observers believe the additional air link could help stimulate trade, tourism and cultural exchanges while strengthening commercial ties between both countries.
Visa Reforms Driving Travel Growth
The ambassador also highlighted improvements in visa processing for Nigerians, revealing that many of the challenges previously encountered by applicants have been addressed.
According to him, the easing of visa restrictions has already produced positive results, with approximately 15,000 Nigerians travelling to the UAE over the past year following the policy adjustments.
The development marks a significant improvement in relations after a period of visa-related tensions that affected travel and business interactions between both countries.
UAE Reaffirms Support Against Terrorism
During the discussions, the ambassador reiterated the UAE's support for Nigeria's efforts to combat terrorism and insecurity.
He noted that his government has consistently condemned terrorist attacks in Nigeria and has issued no fewer than eight official statements expressing solidarity with the country.
As part of the diplomatic engagement, Al-Shamsi also delivered a formal letter of congratulations from Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan to Odumegwu-Ojukwu on her appointment as Nigeria's Foreign Affairs Minister.
Nigeria Seeks Greater Investment Inflows
Responding, Odumegwu-Ojukwu reaffirmed Nigeria's commitment to strengthening diplomatic and economic cooperation with the UAE, particularly in attracting foreign direct investment from sovereign wealth funds, financial institutions and private investors.
The minister said sustained diplomatic engagement between both countries had helped resolve several longstanding issues, particularly those relating to visa access and travel facilitation.
"I am happy to say that a lot of the issues raised when I was Minister of State for Foreign Affairs have been resolved in less than a year, especially regarding visas," she said.
She described the growth in non-oil trade as a clear indication of stronger bilateral relations and effective diplomacy.
"In addition, you have been able to move the non-oil trade volume between both countries from $4.3 billion in 2024 to over $5 billion in 2025. This shows your commitment and unrelenting effort in deepening our bilateral relations," she added.
Diplomatic Relations Continue to Strengthen
Odumegwu-Ojukwu also revealed that Sheikh Abdullah was the first international leader to personally congratulate her after her appointment by Bola Ahmed Tinubu, a gesture she described as both significant and deeply appreciated.
"I am so pleased to have received the call from His Highness, the Deputy Prime Minister… It was actually the first of such calls," she stated.
With trade volumes rising, banking investments on the horizon, improved visa access and new aviation links being established, both Nigeria and the UAE appear poised to deepen economic cooperation even further. Analysts believe the planned expansion of financial services and transport connectivity could accelerate bilateral trade growth and position both countries for a stronger and more mutually beneficial partnership in the years ahead.