Qatar has announced significant updates to its Hayya visa program, specifically the GCC Residents Visa (A2), aiming to streamline travel for residents of Gulf Cooperation Council countries. The changes, a collaborative effort between Qatar Tourism, the Ministry of Interior, and the Permanent Committee for Managing Visitor Entry, will take effect on November 30, 2025. These updates are designed to enhance the visitor experience as Qatar prepares to host the 2025 FIFA Arab Cup and a variety of other international events, bolstering the country’s Hayya visa appeal and attracting more regional visitors.
Enhanced GCC Resident Visa to Boost Qatar Tourism
The revised Hayya visa for GCC residents will now permit stays of up to two months in Qatar and offer multiple-entry access. This represents a substantial improvement over previous restrictions, which often limited stay durations and required single-entry permissions. According to Qatar Tourism, the change aims to facilitate easier movement for visitors attending sporting events and exploring Qatar’s expanding cultural and entertainment offerings.
The timing of these updates is strategically aligned with preparations for the 2025 FIFA Arab Cup, a major sporting event expected to draw a large influx of fans from across the region. The government hopes that the ease of access will encourage fans to spend more time in the country enjoying attractions beyond the matches themselves. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to diversify Qatar’s tourism sector.
Streamlined Entry Process via the Hayya Platform
The Hayya platform, Qatar’s official e-visa digital gateway, will remain central to the application and approval process. Operated by Qatar Tourism, Hayya integrates visa processing and event access into a single, user-friendly interface. This centralized system is intended to reduce administrative burdens and expedite entry for eligible travelers, allowing the country to make a positive impression on international tourism.
Saeed Al Kuwari, Director of Hayya, stated that the changes represent “a broader vision to strengthen the country’s openness to the region.” He further emphasized that the amendments are intended to increase tourism arrivals and contribute to Qatar’s national economic growth. These improvements align with Qatar’s National Vision 2030, which prioritizes economic diversification and sustainable development.
The updates to the A2 visa are not the only option for visitors planning to travel to Qatar. The Hayya platform currently offers five distinct visa categories, including the Tourist Visa (A1), Visa with ETA (A3), Companion of GCC Citizen Visa (A4), and a Visa-Free option for US Citizens (F1). The availability of these diverse visa options is designed to cater to a wider range of travelers and simplify the travel planning process for different nationalities. Streamlining the process is key to increasing Qatar tourism.
These changes also come as Qatar continues to invest heavily in its tourism infrastructure, including new hotels, resorts, and entertainment venues. The government has actively promoted Qatar as a destination for cultural tourism, offering visitors opportunities to explore the country’s rich heritage and traditions. Additionally, Qatar has been working to enhance its appeal as a hub for business and leisure travelers by expanding its airline network and improving its transportation links. While this current focus is on regional visitors, the improved infrastructure will benefit international travel to the country as well.
Looking ahead, the implementation of the new visa regulations on November 30, 2025, will be closely monitored. Officials will assess the impact on visitor numbers, the efficiency of the entry process, and the overall contribution to Qatar’s economy. Any adjustments to the system based on initial feedback or unforeseen challenges remain to be seen, but the government’s commitment to fostering tourism and easing travel restrictions is clear, projecting continued growth in the GCC region.
The success of the program will also likely depend on effective communication and awareness campaigns targeting GCC residents. Clear guidelines and readily available information will be crucial to ensure a smooth transition and maximize the benefits of the updated visa policy.
