Saudi Arabia to Qatar: Entry & travel requirements

Planning a trip from Saudi Arabia to Qatar? Get up to speed with the entry requirements for a smoother journey.

Whether you're off to Qatar for a business meeting or some well-deserved relaxation, staying on top of the entry and travel rules is essential. The landscape of international travel is ever-changing, and being informed can mean sailing through your journey rather than hitting unexpected snags.

This guide walks you through everything you need to know for a smooth trip. We've covered the main details to prepare you for what’s ahead. Let's get started.

Visa simplified: Making your way from Saudi Arabia to Qatar

Saudi Arabia and Qatar are members of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). This means Saudi citizens can enter Qatar without a visa for up to 30 days.

GCC residents living in Saudi Arabia need to apply for a GCC Resident Visa before visiting Qatar. Visitors to Saudi Arabia who want to travel to Qatar may need to apply for a Qatar eVisa or get a visa on arrival, depending on their nationality.

Travel right: Passport validity and other documents for your Qatar trip

Before traveling to Qatar, make sure that your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond the date you expect to leave the country. Visitors who need to apply for a Qatari visa first before entering the country must also obtain health insurance.

Those who qualify for a visa on arrival are exempt from the health insurance requirement for the first 30 days of their stay. If you wish to extend your stay, you’ll need to purchase a health insurance policy.

Some nationalities may need to present a return or onward flight ticket to prove their intent to leave Qatar after their stay. Also, confirmation of accommodation is necessary, especially if you’re applying for a visa on arrival or extending your stay. For travelers from specific countries like India, Pakistan, Iran, and Thailand, booking through the Discover Qatar website is mandatory to secure a visa on arrival.

Proof of funds is another requirement for some nationalities, ensuring travelers can support themselves during their stay. A credit or debit card in the visitor’s name or bank statements for the last three months may be required to demonstrate financial stability.

What to bring and what to leave behind when traveling to Qatar

When traveling to Qatar, it’s important to be aware of what you can and cannot bring into the country to avoid any issues at customs. Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Duty-free allowance: You can bring in no more than 400 cigarettes. Personal items and gifts are allowed up to a value of QAR 3,000 (around $824), as long as they are not for commercial use.

• Prohibited items: Qatar has strict rules against certain items. Alcoholic beverages, materials of an adult nature, all types of drugs, weapons, explosives, and radioactive materials are not allowed. Also, goods from countries facing economic boycotts by Qatar are prohibited.

• Restricted items: Be careful with items that Qatar regulates more strictly, such as pets, which require prior permits.

What else should you know about Qatar before packing your bags? Check out our trip guide.

Get support for your Qatari eVisa application

If you want to apply for a Qatari eVisa and have questions, you can get in touch with our customer support team. Contact them any time via WhatsApp or through the iVisa chat.