The Council of the European Union adopted five sets of conclusions on October 19, 2026, paving the way for a potential Schengen visa waiver for citizens of Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, and Qatar. Any move toward visa-free travel, however, remains subject to several conditions.
Qatar Tourism’s Hayya platform has received a 2026 Silver Stevie® Award for its role in the digital transformation of travel, tourism and event management in Qatar.
In response to the sudden closure of its airspace and the escalating tensions in the Middle East, Qatar has announced the automatic and free extension of all entry visas that are set to expire.
Canada announces the removal of the visa requirement for Qatari citizens, a measure that has taken effect immediately. This decision, accompanied by the mandatory eTA requirement for Qatari travelers, marks a new step in the strengthening of bilateral ties between Ottawa and Doha and aims to facilitate travel between the two countries.
Qatar officially joins the US Visa Waiver Program this November 22, 2024. Qataris can now apply for ESTA authorization to travel to the USA.
“No later than December 1, 2024”, Qatar will become the 42nd country included in the U.S. Visa Waiver Program and ESTA electronic travel authorization system.
