Qatar’s New Hayya Visa Updates Simplify Travel for GCC Residents Amid Busy Event Season, Here’s All You Need to Know

Published on November 29, 2025

Qatar Tourism, along with the Ministry of Interior and the Permanent Committee for Managing the Entry of Visitors have announced recent changes to the Hayya GCC Residents Visa (A2). The changes will take effect on the 30th of November 2025 and will allow the visitors from GCC to travel more easily to Qatar which will be particularly useful during the busy international sporting, cultural and entertainment events hosted Qatar.

A Seamless Experience for GCC Residents

The latest improvements to the Hayya Visa will allow visitors from GCC countries to stay in Qatar for up to two months, with multiple-entry access. This change is set to make it easier for visitors to attend the various events taking place throughout Qatar’s busy events season, such as the upcoming 2025 FIFA Arab Cup and an exciting lineup of cultural and entertainment activities. This visa will not only improve the entry process but will also facilitate a seamless travel experience for fans and tourists looking to explore the country during this vibrant period.

An Essential Move for Regional Tourism Growth

Qatar’s strategic positioning as a regional hub for major international events has significantly contributed to the tourism sector’s growth in recent years. With this update, Qatar aims to build on its reputation as a prime destination for cultural and sporting events. The GCC residents, who are major visitors to the country, will benefit from the smooth entry process, allowing them to engage in various events and experiences without the need for cumbersome procedures. The ability to move freely in and out of the country with the Hayya Visa enhances Qatar’s accessibility and strengthens its appeal as a regional destination for both leisure and business tourism.

Qatar’s tourism calendar for the upcoming months is packed with exciting events, and the updated Hayya Visa will ensure that GCC residents can easily partake in the festivities. Not only will this help boost the tourism sector, but it will also contribute to the overall economy of Qatar, which continues to expand its global tourism profile.

Strengthening Qatar’s Global Tourism Profile

Director of Hayya, Saeed Al Kuwari, emphasized that the changes go beyond procedural adjustments. According to Al Kuwari, these updates reflect Qatar Tourism’s broader vision to enhance the country’s openness to the region, increase visitor arrivals, and facilitate easier movement during major events.

The enhanced Hayya platform will play a central role in ensuring smooth entry for visitors, simplifying the entire process with its easy-to-use digital interface. As Qatar continues to solidify its place as a leading destination for regional and international tourism, these measures contribute to the country’s position as a premier location for high-profile events. Al Kuwari also pointed out that these updates are designed to bring Qatar’s vision of being a tourism hub to life, with benefits extending beyond the immediate event season.

The Hayya Platform: Qatar’s Central Gateway to Seamless Travel

Operated by Qatar Tourism, Hayya is Qatar’s official e-visa platform, acting as a digital gateway to the country. The Hayya platform enables visitors to access essential visa processing services and event passes all in one place, providing an integrated and user-friendly experience. Through this platform, Qatar has streamlined visitor management for both tourists and those attending specific events like the FIFA Arab Cup.

With the newly introduced multiple-entry visas, visitors can now plan longer stays and attend various events without the stress of reapplying for entry visas during their visit. This update marks a significant step towards improving Qatar’s accessibility to tourists and residents from neighboring GCC countries.

Qatar’s Focus on Economic Growth Through Tourism

These changes come at a time when Qatar is heavily focused on diversifying its economy, with tourism playing a pivotal role. The updated Hayya visa system is part of a broader initiative to encourage travel to Qatar and increase the economic contribution of the tourism industry. By allowing easier movement for GCC residents, Qatar is ensuring that more people can participate in major events, thus supporting the tourism sector during busy times.

Qatar’s thriving events calendar—combined with its growing infrastructure, luxury offerings, and cultural attractions—positions the country as an ideal destination for tourists from across the region. The latest visa updates are expected to draw even more visitors, helping to sustain the momentum Qatar has built as a world-class tourism destination.

A Bright Future for Qatar’s Tourism Sector

With the recent advancements enhancing accessibility and the ease of visitor movement within the country, Qatar Tourism is consolidating Qatar’s status as a top contender for global tourism and events. These improvements serve all travelers from the GCC and further Qatar’s ambitious goal of becoming a regional and global tourism center.