As Qatar gears up for an exciting calendar of international sports, cultural, and entertainment events in 2025 – 2026, the country is introducing significant updates to the Hayya GCC Residents Visa (A2). These enhancements are designed to make traveling to Qatar simpler, faster, and more convenient for residents of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries.
The update, effective 30 November 2025, allows GCC visitors to stay in Qatar for up to two months and provides multiple-entry access, enabling seamless movement across the country during the busiest season of the year.
At the heart of this initiative is Qatar Tourism, working closely with the Ministry of Interior and the Permanent Committee for Managing Visitor Entry to ensure a smooth, hassle-free travel experience.
Hayya GCC Residents Visa: Key Features for 2025
The updated Hayya GCC Residents Visa is part of Qatar’s broader strategy to enhance the country’s accessibility and tourism appeal. Key features include:
- Extended stay: Up to two months for GCC residents.
- Multiple entries: Allows visitors to enter and exit Qatar multiple times during their stay.
- Seamless travel: Simplified entry process across airports and land borders.
- Integration with events: Streamlined access to major events like the 2025 FIFA Arab Cup.
“These measures go beyond simple procedural changes,” says Mr. Saeed Al-Kuwari, Director of Hayya. “They reflect Qatar Tourism’s vision to strengthen regional openness, facilitate visitor movement during major sports and cultural events, and boost tourism’s contribution to the national economy.”
By enhancing the visa process, Qatar is enabling GCC residents to explore not just sports tournaments, but also the country’s cultural landmarks, natural attractions, and vibrant year-round events.
How the Hayya Platform Supports Travelers
Hayya serves as Qatar’s official e-visa digital platform, acting as a central gateway for all visitors. From visa applications to event access, and from transportation guidance to accommodation booking, Hayya integrates multiple services into a single, user-friendly interface.
Visitors can also use the platform to:
- Plan travel itineraries across Qatar.
- Access real-time updates on events, transportation, and attractions.
- Receive personalized support through the Hayya Contact Center, available 24/7 in Arabic, English, Tagalog, Urdu, and Hindi.
Applicants can reach the support team by email or call 2022 from inside Qatar, or +974 4441 2022 from abroad.
Supporting Major Events and Tourism Growth
The updated Hayya GCC Residents Visa comes at a critical time as Qatar prepares to welcome visitors for the FIFA Arab Cup 2025 and a host of other international events. By enabling smooth travel, the country ensures that fans, tourists, and cultural enthusiasts can enjoy Qatar’s hospitality without delays or complications.
Hayya offers five visa categories in total:
- Tourist Visa (A1)
- GCC Resident Visa (A2)
- Visa with ETA (A3)
- Companion of GCC Citizen Visa (A4)
- Visa-Free Entry for US Citizens (F1)
By streamlining entry for GCC residents, Qatar Tourism not only supports tourism but also strengthens the country’s global reputation as a premier destination for events and cultural experiences.
Leading the Hayya Program
Mr. Saeed Al-Kuwari, Director of Hayya, has been instrumental in shaping the platform’s success. He previously led the Hayya Program Operations during the FIFA World Cup 2022™, managing over 43 service centers and supervising more than 1,000 staff members.
With a background in electrical engineering and an Executive MBA, Al-Kuwari brings a wealth of experience in digital transformation, event management, and identity security systems. Under his guidance, Hayya continues to evolve as a central hub for tourism, travel, and event access in Qatar.
Looking Ahead: Qatar’s Tourism Vision
The enhancements to the Hayya GCC Residents Visa are part of Qatar Tourism’s broader strategy to expand the country’s tourism sector. With a focus on culture, luxury experiences, family travel, and world-class events, Qatar is creating an environment where visitors from across the GCC can explore the country with ease and confidence.
By combining technology, hospitality, and streamlined visa access, Qatar ensures that every visit becomes a memorable experience—whether attending a sporting event, enjoying cultural festivals, or exploring natural landmarks.
To learn more about the Hayya GCC Residents Visa and Qatar’s upcoming events, visit: Qatar Tourism – Hayya Platform.
