The Qatari government has published a list of 37 countries whose citizens are eligible for a joint tourist visa, allowing travel to both Qatar and Oman under a single document. This visa is issued on arrival and is valid for 30 days, permitting multiple entries into both Gulf nations. The joint tourist visa aims to streamline travel between the two countries, eliminating the need for separate visas for each destination.
The joint tourist visa is a convenient option for travellers, as it can be obtained on arrival, eliminating the need for prior consular appointments or advance documentation beyond standard travel requirements. Once issued, the visa remains valid for 30 days from the date of entry, allowing travellers to move freely between Qatar and Oman during that period. This arrangement is expected to boost tourism and travel between the two Gulf nations.
Travellers who require a longer stay can apply for a 30-day extension upon payment of an additional fee, bringing the maximum permitted stay to 60 days under the scheme. The on-arrival format of the visa is expected to make it easier for eligible nationalities to travel to Qatar and Oman. The list of eligible countries includes Andorra, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brunei, Canada, Cyprus, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hong Kong, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Monaco, Montenegro, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, San Marino, Singapore, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, the United States, and Vatican City.
The list of eligible countries covers nationals from across Europe, North America, Asia-Pacific, and a number of smaller sovereign states. Notable inclusions from the African diaspora travel perspective include the United Kingdom, which holds a large population of dual nationals and residents with ties to Ghana and other African countries. This development is expected to make it easier for travellers from these countries to visit Qatar and Oman.
Travellers from countries not included on the list remain subject to Qatar and Oman's standard entry and visa requirements, which vary by nationality. The Qatari government has previously announced that citizens of 47 countries could visit the Gulf state on a free tourist visa valid for up to 30 days. This visa allows multiple entries throughout its validity period, meaning travellers can leave and return to Qatar without applying for a new visa each time.
The introduction of the joint tourist visa is part of Qatar's efforts to enhance its tourism industry and make it easier for travellers to visit the country. The visa scheme is also expected to promote travel and tourism between Qatar and Oman, strengthening ties between the two Gulf nations. The Qatari government has been working to improve its tourism infrastructure and services in recent years, making it a more attractive destination for travellers.
The joint tourist visa for Qatar and Oman is the latest development in the region's tourism industry. The scheme is expected to benefit travellers from the 37 eligible countries, making it easier for them to visit both countries. Key points include:
Key points
- The joint tourist visa is valid for 30 days with multiple entries to Qatar and Oman.
- The visa can be extended for an additional 30 days upon payment of a fee.
- The list of eligible countries includes the United Kingdom, the United States, and several European and Asian nations.
