Qatar Leads the Way in Regional Tourism Innovation by Introducing Flexible Hayya Visa Updates for GCC Residents, Enhancing Access to Major 2025 Events

Published on December 5, 2025

Qatar is setting a new benchmark in regional tourism with the launch of its transformative Hayya Visa updates, offering GCC residents unparalleled flexibility and access to the country’s world-class events and cultural attractions. These groundbreaking changes, which include extended stay options of up to two months and multiple entries, aim to streamline travel for residents during a season packed with major sporting, cultural, and entertainment events. By easing entry procedures and promoting seamless access to both iconic landmarks and global events like the 2025 FIFA Arab Cup, Qatar is reinforcing its position as a premier destination for regional visitors, boosting tourism and economic growth while enhancing the overall visitor experience.

Qatar Enhances Hayya GCC Residents Visa for Seamless Travel Experience During 2025 Events

Qatar Tourism, in collaboration with the Ministry of Interior and the Permanent Committee for Managing Visitor Entry, has introduced a series of updates to the Hayya GCC Residents Visa (A2) to improve the visitor experience during a season packed with international sports, cultural, and entertainment events. The updates, which took effect on 30 November 2025, aim to streamline travel for residents of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, ensuring an easier and more flexible travel experience throughout the busy event season.

The new updates allow GCC residents to stay in Qatar for up to two months and benefit from multiple entries. This adjustment aims to make attending a variety of major events, including the highly anticipated 2025 FIFA Arab Cup, much more convenient. The flexibility of multiple entries ensures that visitors can easily move in and out of Qatar, allowing them to attend sports matches, cultural festivals, and other entertainment offerings while exploring the country’s diverse attractions.

Qatar is preparing for a season of high-profile international events, and these enhancements to the Hayya Visa are set to support Qatar’s status as a prominent global destination for sports, culture, and entertainment. Qatar Tourism aims to improve accessibility for visitors, fostering deeper regional connections and increasing Qatar’s appeal to both regional tourists and international event attendees.

The Hayya Visa, which is part of Qatar’s broader digital tourism initiatives, allows residents from the GCC countries to access various events and activities with ease. The new visa updates simplify entry processes, ensuring a smoother arrival at all points of entry, including airports and land borders. With these changes, the visa platform aims to make it easier for residents to enjoy everything Qatar has to offer, from major sporting events to its cultural and entertainment hubs.

Qatar Tourism has emphasized that these updates are a strategic move to promote regional tourism and further integrate the GCC into Qatar’s tourism infrastructure. The new measures reflect Qatar’s ambition to not only streamline visa processes but also bolster its position as a premier destination for visitors from neighboring countries. By facilitating travel during key events, Qatar aims to encourage increased visitor arrivals, with a particular focus on enhancing tourism’s contribution to the country’s economy.

The Hayya Visa is now available in five categories: the Tourist Visa (A1), the GCC Resident Visa (A2), the Visa with ETA (A3), the Companion of GCC Citizen Visa (A4), and the Visa-Free option for US Citizens (F1). These updates are aimed at providing more flexible options for GCC residents, making it easier for them to explore Qatar during their travels and attend major international events. The introduction of multiple entries on the Hayya GCC Resident Visa is particularly advantageous for those attending recurring events or those who wish to explore Qatar at their leisure during their stay.

Operated by Qatar Tourism, the Hayya platform serves as the official digital gateway for the country. It integrates visa processing with event access and other travel services, offering a unified platform for visitors. By providing a seamless e-visa service and offering a variety of lifestyle experiences, the platform aims to enhance the overall visitor experience. Beyond facilitating entry into the country, the Hayya platform also encourages visitors to explore Qatar’s rich cultural landmarks, natural wonders, and vibrant events calendar. From the bustling souks of Doha to the tranquil beauty of Qatar’s desert landscapes, the Hayya platform offers easy access to all the diverse attractions the country has to offer.

Furthermore, the platform’s tailored digital solutions cater to event organizers, delegates, and attendees. This makes it easier for visitors to plan their trip, ensuring that all aspects of their travel are handled through a single platform. Whether attending a sports event, business conference, or cultural exhibition, Hayya helps visitors experience Qatar’s offerings with convenience and efficiency.

For those requiring assistance, the Hayya Contact Centre provides support in multiple languages, including Arabic, English, Tagalog, Urdu, and Hindi. The service is available 24/7, ensuring that visitors from the GCC and beyond can easily access help when needed. Whether applicants need to inquire about their visa status or require information about event details, the contact center ensures a smooth communication process.

Qatar is revolutionizing regional tourism with new Hayya Visa updates, offering GCC residents extended stays and multiple entries to seamlessly enjoy major events and cultural attractions, solidifying its position as a top destination.

The introduction of these updates to the Hayya Visa, combined with Qatar’s world-class infrastructure, positions the country as a top destination for regional and international travelers. By making it easier for GCC residents to attend a variety of events and enjoy Qatar’s diverse offerings, Qatar Tourism is paving the way for increased tourism, business opportunities, and cultural exchange. The enhanced Hayya Visa represents Qatar’s ongoing commitment to strengthening its role as a global hub for sports, culture, and entertainment.