Qatar Tourism held a press conference on 16 April, announcing that the "Hayya" platform - initially used to issue visitor visas for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022TM - has become the platform to obtain all tourist visas to the State of Qatar. 

The newly developed platform aims to streamline the visa process for all visas and travel permits to the State of Qatar by air and land. Visitors flying into Qatar will be able to fast-track their entry via Hamad International Airport using the e-Gate system. Additionally, travellers entering Qatar via the Abu Samra border crossing can use the pre-registration service on the platform. 

This will ensure the standardisation of visa procedures, including tourist visas, GCC residents visas, companion of GCC Citizen visas, and Electronic Travel Authorisation. The Hayya Platform will accommodate all requests received from all countries around the world including all professions. This is part of Qatar's commitment to investing in its tourism sector due to its significant role in boosting the country's economy and the ambitious plans to develop tourism, as part of a long-term strategic vision that aims to bolster its status as the region's top tourist destination. 

The newly updated Hayya platform is part of the Qatar Tourism Strategy 2030, which aims to attract 6 million visitors annually by the end of 2030. With a focus on improving Qatar's position as a leading tourist destination. After successfully hosting the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, Qatar is poised to build on this momentum and continue to provide unforgettable experiences for visitors from around the world. 

Key points about the application process 

• All visitors, including GCC residents of all professions, can follow the below simple steps to obtain their tourism visas. For GCC nationals, the Application provides an option to apply for a GCC Companion Entry Permit. 
  1. Visit www.hayya.qa
  2. Submit an application 
  3. Receive your permit via the Hayya Platform 
• Visitors coming through the Abu Samra border crossing can now apply for the pre-registration service provided by the Hayya platform. This is an optional service, which means that the usual procedures for crossing the Abu Samra border still apply. 

  The pre-registration process: 

  1. Visit www.hayya.qa 
  2. Submit an application and make necessary vehicle insurance payments 24 hours before arrival 
  3. Receive vehicle's pre-registration permit via the Hayya Platform 
• Holders of visas to and valid residencies in the United States of America, the United Kingdom, Canada, the Schengen countries, Australia or New Zealand can enter the State of Qatar without restrictions by applying through the Haya platform. 

Additional resources 

For more information on the new Hayya platform, please refer to: https://hayya.qa/  

Visit Qatar Tourism for information about Qatar as a travel destination and information on visa requirements, transportation options and more: https:www.qatartourism.com/en