UAE residents do not need a regular tourist visa to visit Qatar. If you live in the UAE and hold a valid UAE residence permit, you can apply online for the Hayya A2 GCC Resident Visa. This applies regardless of your nationality. A regular Qatar visa may still be needed if you plan to work, study, or stay long-term in Qatar.
Do UAE Residents Need a Visa for Qatar?
It depends on your status.
UAE nationals (GCC citizens): UAE passport holders do not need a visa to enter Qatar. GCC citizens enter Qatar visa-free.
UAE residents (non-GCC nationals): If you are not a GCC citizen but you live in the UAE with a valid residence permit, you need a visa to enter Qatar. The main option for you is the Hayya A2 GCC Resident Visa. You apply online before you travel.
Qatar Visa Options for UAE Residents
As a UAE resident, you have the following options:
- Hayya A2 GCC Resident Visa: The main online option for UAE residents. You apply through the Hayya platform before travel.
- Hayya A1 Tourist Visa: This is a standard tourist eVisa for nationalities that are required to apply online but are not GCC residents. If you are already a UAE resident, the A2 is the correct option.
- Visa on arrival: Some nationalities may be eligible for visa on arrival in Qatar. If you are a UAE resident and your nationality qualifies, this may also be available. Check the Visit Qatar visa checker for your specific passport.
- Regular Qatar visa: Needed for work, employment, study, family sponsorship, residence, or long-term stay in Qatar. This is not the same as an eVisa.
Qatar eVisa (Hayya A2) for UAE Residents
The Hayya A2 is the standard online entry visa for residents of GCC countries, including the UAE. You apply through the official Hayya portal at hayya.qa.
The A2 visa is suitable for short-term tourism and leisure visits to Qatar. It is not intended for work, employment, or long-term residence.
Who can apply for the A2 visa:
- Any person who holds a valid UAE residence permit, regardless of nationality
- The residence permit must be valid at the time of application and travel
Qatar Regular Visa for UAE Residents
The Hayya A2 eVisa is for tourism purposes. It does not cover every situation.
You may need a regular Qatar visa if you plan to:
- Work or take up employment in Qatar
- Study in Qatar
- Join a family member who is a Qatar resident or sponsor
- Stay in Qatar for a long period
- Apply for Qatar residence
For these purposes, the application process is different. You will need to contact the relevant Qatari authority, employer, or sponsor. The Qatar Ministry of Interior handles residence and work-related visas.
Qatar Visa Requirements for UAE Residents
To apply for the Hayya A2 GCC Resident Visa, you will generally need:
- Valid passport (minimum 3 months validity from your date of arrival in Qatar)
- Valid UAE residence permit
- Recent face photo
- Accommodation details in Qatar
- Return or onward flight ticket
- Payment of visa fee, if applicable
Documents Required for the Hayya A2 eVisa
Prepare these documents before you start your application:
- Passport scan (valid, clear, all details visible)
- Recent passport-style face photo (plain background, clear image)
- Copy of your valid UAE residence permit
- Hotel booking confirmation or proof of accommodation in Qatar
- Return or onward flight ticket
- Visa fee payment details
Make sure all documents are clear and up to date before submitting. Incomplete or unclear documents can delay your application.
How to Apply for the Hayya A2 eVisa Online
- Check your eligibility. Confirm your UAE residence permit is valid and that you qualify for the A2 visa.
- Go to the Hayya portal. Visit hayya.qa and select the GCC Resident Visa (A2).
- Prepare your documents. Have your passport scan, residence permit, photo, and accommodation details ready.
- Complete the online application. Fill in all required fields accurately.
- Upload your documents. Attach all required files in the correct format.
- Pay the visa fee. If a fee is required, pay online through the portal.
- Wait for approval. Processing time can vary. Do not book non-refundable travel until your visa is approved.
- Travel with your approved eVisa. Download and keep a copy of your approved visa.
Qatar eVisa Fee and Processing Time
The Hayya A2 visa may require a fee of QAR 100. This is subject to change.
Processing time is not guaranteed. Most applications are processed within a few business days, but it can take longer depending on the volume of applications and the documents submitted.
Factors that may affect processing time include:
- Incomplete or unclear documents
- Errors in the application form
- High application volumes during peak travel periods
Always apply well in advance of your travel date.
Qatar Visa Validity and Duration of Stay
The Hayya A2 GCC Resident Visa is typically valid for a short-term stay. The standard allowed stay is usually up to 30 days per visit.
Visa validity details depend on the type of visa issued and the decision of the Qatari authorities. Entry may be single or multiple entry, depending on what is approved.
If you need to stay longer or extend your visit, contact the relevant Qatar authority. Extension is not guaranteed.
Qatar Transit Visa for UAE Residents
If you are transiting through Hamad International Airport in Doha and do not plan to leave the transit area, you may not need a visa.
If you want to leave the airport and explore Doha during your stopover, you may need a transit visa or a short-stay entry permit.
Qatar Airways passengers transiting for a minimum of 6 hours who want to take a Doha transit tour can apply for a transit visa at the Discover Qatar Transit Desk at Hamad International Airport. A transit visa valid for up to 4 days is also available for longer stopovers.
If you are a UAE resident with a valid Hayya A2 eVisa, you can enter Qatar during your stopover using your approved visa.
Common Mistakes When Applying as a UAE Resident
- Applying for the A1 tourist eVisa instead of the A2. UAE residents should use the A2 GCC Resident Visa.
- Confusing UAE nationality with UAE residency. UAE nationals (GCC citizens) are visa-free. UAE residents of other nationalities must apply.
- Using an expired UAE residence permit. Your permit must be valid at the time of application and travel.
- Providing incorrect or unclear documents. Always check that scans are clear and all details are visible.
- Not booking accommodation before applying. Accommodation details are required as part of the application.
- Passport validity too short. Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months from your arrival date in Qatar.
- Assuming approval is automatic. Visa approval is not guaranteed. The decision is made by Qatari authorities.
Qatar Visa for Children and Family Members
Children who travel with you to Qatar generally need their own entry visa or approval. A child cannot use a parent's visa.
For each child, you will typically need:
- Valid passport for the child
- Recent face photo of the child
- Proof of relationship (such as a birth certificate), if required
- Accommodation details
If you are travelling with a child who is not your own, additional documentation may be required.
Family members who are also UAE residents can each apply for their own Hayya A2 visa. Each applicant must have a valid UAE residence permit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can any nationality apply for the Hayya A2 visa as a UAE resident?\ Yes. The Hayya A2 GCC Resident Visa is open to residents of GCC countries regardless of nationality. If you hold a valid UAE residence permit, you may apply for the A2 visa, no matter which passport you hold.
Do UAE nationals need a visa for Qatar?\ No. UAE nationals are GCC citizens and enter Qatar visa-free. No application is needed.
Can I use my UAE residence permit to enter Qatar without a visa?\ No. A UAE residence permit alone does not grant entry to Qatar. You still need to apply for the Hayya A2 eVisa before you travel.
Is the Hayya A2 visa the same as a tourist visa?\ The A2 is specifically for GCC residents. The A1 is the standard tourist eVisa for other eligible nationalities. Both are short-stay online visas, but they are separate categories. UAE residents should apply for the A2.
How long can I stay in Qatar with the A2 visa?\ The standard duration is typically up to 30 days per visit. The exact duration will be stated in your approved visa. Check your approval document carefully.
Can I work in Qatar on a Hayya A2 visa?\ No. The Hayya A2 GCC Resident Visa is for tourism and short-term visits only. If you plan to work in Qatar, you need a separate work visa or employment visa, which is a different process.
What if my UAE residence permit expires before my Qatar trip?\ You may not be eligible to apply for the A2 visa with an expired residence permit. Renew your UAE residence permit before applying.
How long does it take to get the Hayya A2 visa?\ Processing time varies. Most applications are processed within a few business days. Apply early and do not book non-refundable travel before your visa is approved.
Can my children travel on the same visa as me?\ No. Each traveller, including children, needs their own visa or entry permission. Apply separately for each family member.
What happens if my A2 visa is rejected?\ If your application is rejected, you will be notified through the Hayya portal. Visa approval is not guaranteed and the decision is made by Qatari authorities. You may contact the Hayya support team for further guidance.
Official Sources
Always verify visa requirements before you travel. Rules can change without notice.
- Qatar Tourism Visa Checker: https://visitqatar.com/intl-en/plan-your-trip/visas
- Hayya Official Portal: https://hayya.qa/
- Qatar Ministry of Interior Visa Page: https://portal.moi.gov.qa/qatarvisas/
- Discover Qatar Approved Hotels: https://www.discoverqatar.qa/mandatory-hotels-for-visa-on-arrival
Last updated: June 2026
Visa approval is not guaranteed. The final decision on visa approval and entry into Qatar is made by the relevant Qatari authorities. Travellers should ensure that all documents are correct and check the latest official requirements before travelling.
