Qatar lifts entry visa requirements for citizens from 80 countries

It has been announced by the Qatar Ministry of Interior, Qatar Tourism Authority and Qatar Airways that, with immediate effect, citizens from 80 countries will now be allowed visa-free entry into Qatar.
No longer will entry visas have to be paid for and, instead, multi-entry waivers will be issued free of charge at the point of entry provided a current passport with at least six months remaining on its validity, and a valid onward or return ticket.
Two different waivers will be issued so, depending on the nationality, they will be valid either for 180 days from the date of issue and which will allow the recipient the right to remain for a total of 90 days in Qatar under a multiple-entry visa, or for a period of 30 days, with the opportunity to apply for an extension for an additional 30 days under another multiple-entry visa.
This change comes as part of a series of measures to ease visitor access to the country. In July, Qatar launched an e-visa platform through which travellers of all nationalities are able to apply for tourist and visitor visas more efficiently. The country is also considering waiving visa requirements for holders of a residence permit or a valid visa from the nations of the Gulf Cooperation Council (Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates), United Kingdom, United States of America, Canada, Australia, New Zealand or the Schengen countries. This waiver would enable eligible visitors to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation by completing an online application form a minimum of 48 hours before traveling.
Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, His Excellency Mr. Akbar Al Baker, said: “Today’s announcement places the State of Qatar as the most open country in the region. This is a momentous occasion for Qatar, making the number of nationalities eligible to enter our country without a visa the highest in region, which is something that we are very proud of.
“Qatar Airways is the patriotic flag carrier for the State of Qatar and as such we are extremely honoured to bring millions of people each year to our beautiful, welcoming and historic country. This important initiative from the Ministry of Interior and Qatar Tourism Authority will provide an opportunity to welcome even more visitors, from even more countries, to experience the many exciting attractions that await them.”
A) Nationals of the following 33 countries will not require prior visa arrangements and can obtain a visa waiver upon arrival in Qatar. The waiver will be valid for 180 days from the date of issuance and entitle its holder to spend up to 90 days in Qatar, during either a single trip or on multiple trips.