Qatar Eases Tourist Visa Policy to Attract More Visitors.
Qatar has shifted its tourist visa policy over the past decade to boost its appeal as a travel destination. This change comes as nearby UAE cities, like Dubai and Abu Dhabi, have grown in popularity.
In 2016, Qatar introduced a transit visa for short stopovers. This was later expanded to allow visa-on-arrival for travelers from specific countries. After a nearly 40% increase in stopover visitors in one year, Qatar expanded visa-free access from nearby Arab nations to more Western countries.
As of October 1, American citizens can now visit Doha and other parts of Qatar for up to 90 days without a visa. This extension aligns their visa terms with those granted to many European and Asian travelers. Although Qatar is less popular than the UAE, it offers a wealth of luxury and striking modern architecture.
The new visa rules are part of a cooperation agreement with the United States, which also provides Qataris with a 90-day visa-free travel period. This makes Qatar the first Gulf country to join the U.S. Visa Waiver Program, which includes countries like Japan, Australia, Israel, and members of the European Union.
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken stated, “Qatar’s fulfillment of the stringent security requirements to join the Visa Waiver Program will deepen our strategic partnership and enhance the flow of people and commerce between our two countries.”
Qatar’s inclusion in the Visa Waiver Program now brings the total to 42 participating countries. Qatar Airways has also been offering a stopover program since 2021, similar to those introduced by Icelandair and other airlines like Turkish Airlines and Etihad Airlines.
Since its launch in 2022, the Abu Dhabi stopover program allows travelers flying with Etihad to book a complimentary stay at an economy hotel or receive a 40% discount at a four- or five-star hotel for up to two nights. Those wishing to spend more time in the UAE can adjust their connecting flight at no extra cost.
While the new visa policy for American travelers took effect on October 1, the U.S. State Department and Department of Homeland Security are still finalizing the start date for Qataris, expected no later than December 2024.
In addition to Doha, popular tourist attractions in Qatar include the historic village of Al Wakrah and the northern city of Al Khor.
Blinken added, “Qatar’s entry will make travel between the United States and Qatar safer, more secure, and easier for both Americans and Qataris.”
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