uk travel requirements qatar airways

Simple Flying

Qatar airways welcomes new uk travel rules.

In March, Qatar was added to the United Kingdom’s red list of countries, minimizing travel between the two nations. However, the Middle Eastern country has today joined India, Bahrain, and the United Arab Emirates on the UK’s amber list . Simple Flying caught up with Qatar Airways’ leadership amid this move.

Upping frequencies

Unvaccinated passengers arriving from amber list countries have to take a test within three days before their flight and a take a day two and day eight test after arrival. They also have to home quarantine for ten days unless they pay for an extra test to release test on day five. However, if they are fully vaccinated, they don’t have to home quarantine or take the day eight test.

The UK government concludes who is on the red, amber and green lists for England. Meanwhile, the other home nations decide their own lists. Nonetheless, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland confirmed that they would follow suit with the changes.

Thus, it’s not only in England where there will be service ramp-ups for Qatar Airways. The airline will be adding frequencies at London, Manchester, and Edinburgh.

The frequencies for the next three months will be as follows:

• August: Two flights per week will continue
• September – An increase to three flights per week
• October – An increase to three flights per week

London Heathrow

• August: 21 flights per week
• September: 21 flights per week
• October: 28 flights per week
• August: Three flights per week will continue
• September: An increase to seven flights per week
• October: Seven flights per week

Word from Qatar

Rossen Dimitrov , Chief Officer Customer Experience of Qatar Airways, shared how glad his team is about the change. He highlighted how important the UK market is for his airline.

“We are pleased that and welcome the change of status. The UK is always a very important market for us. Not only for our global travelers but also our local Qatari travelers,” Dimitrov told Simple Flying.

“The UK, and London Heathrow, especially, is a very popular destination. A lot of people are already excited. I have to tell you that when the news broke out I received a lot of messages from people I know around the world and a lot of local Qatari families. Everyone was super excited, and, obviously, we are excited as well, it's a great opportunity and it's a step in the right direction.”

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In the right direction

It’s understandable why Dimitrov emphasized the popularity of London Heathrow, with the other UK destinations only seeing a fraction of the activity of this airport. This comes as no surprise as Heathrow was the busiest airport in Europe before the pandemic.

Altogether, Qatar Airways has shown that it’s willing to be present across the nations as much as it can even during the harshest times of the health crisis. So, with the skies slowly opening up again, the carrier wouldn’t waste time to get in on the action.

What are your thoughts about Qatar Airways’ operations to the United Kingdom? Are you looking to fly with the carrier soon? Let us know what you think of the airline and its services in the comment section.

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Qatar Travel Restrictions

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Travelling from the United Kingdom to Qatar

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Not required

Not required for vaccinated visitors

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Not required in public spaces and enclosed environments.

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Can I travel to Qatar from the United Kingdom?

Most visitors from the United Kingdom, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Qatar.

Can I travel to Qatar if I am vaccinated?

Fully vaccinated visitors from the United Kingdom can enter Qatar without restrictions.

Can I travel to Qatar without being vaccinated?

Unvaccinated visitors from the United Kingdom can enter Qatar without restrictions.

Do I need a COVID test to enter Qatar?

Visitors from the United Kingdom are not required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test or antigen result upon entering Qatar.

Can I travel to Qatar without quarantine?

Travellers from the United Kingdom are not required to quarantine.

Do I need to wear a mask in Qatar?

Mask usage in Qatar is not required in public spaces and enclosed environments.

Are the restaurants and bars open in Qatar?

Restaurants in Qatar are open. Bars in Qatar are .

Accessibility Links

Is it safe to travel to Qatar right now? Latest travel advice

Qatar has been key to negotiations between israel, hamas and the west. here’s what you need to know about visiting this arab nation, including foreign office advice.

Q atar became the first Middle Eastern country to host the Fifa World Cup in 2022, putting it on the tourist map for those who might be looking for an alternative to the UAE. Like its regional neighbour, there is awe-inspiring architecture to gawk at and traditional souks selling herbs and spices, but the Arabic nation is also a centre for traditional and modern art. Among the highlights are the Museum of Islamic Art and Mathaf (the Arab Museum of Modern Art), both of which are in the capital, Doha.

Since the conflict between Israel and Hamas began, Qatar has also become an important regional mediator, despite the fact that it doesn’t border the countries involved. Here’s what you need to know.

Main photo: Mina District at Old Doha Port, Qatar (Alamy)

This article contains affiliate links, which may earn us revenue

What’s the latest government advice about travelling to Qatar?

The UK Foreign Office (FCDO) does not currently have any travel advisories about Qatar . However, the FCDO says that terrorism in the country can’t be ruled out, and busy areas such as hotels, shopping centres and beaches could be targets.

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You should also be aware of local laws and customs, as well as actions that might cause offence. For example, public displays of intimacy could lead to arrest, while both men and women should dress modestly. During Ramadan, eating and drinking in public, as well as swearing, playing music or dancing would be considered offensive.

Has Qatar been affected by the Israel-Hamas conflict?

Qatar does not border Israel, so it’s not directly affected by the conflict with Hamas. However, Qatar does have close ties with Hamas and has been an important regional mediator — it was key in the negotiations that secured the release of two American hostages held by Hamas.

Is it safe to travel to Qatar right now?

The high-profile death of British travel industry executive Marc Bennett in 2022 raised questions over whether it’s safe to travel to the country. However, there’s no reason not to travel to Qatar right now. The Arab nation is considered a safe place to visit and crime levels are also generally low.

What are Qatar’s entry requirements?

Those using a full British passport to travel to Qatar for tourism can get a free 30-day visa waiver on arrival. You can extend this through the Qatar Ministry of Interior. However, you will need a confirmed return or onward ticket, and your passport must be valid for a minimum of six months from the day you arrive.

If you’re travelling on a non-standard British passport, such as one from a British Overseas Territory, you will need a visa. You will also need a visa if you’re visiting the country for another reason.

Is Qatar safe for female travellers?

Qatar is generally considered safe for female travellers. However, you should still take care when walking or travelling alone, especially at night. You should also use reputable taxi firms.

The FCDO says that personal attacks, including sexual assault and rape, are relatively rare but they do happen. However, local laws mean that the burden of proof rests heavily on the victim. If they cannot prove that the sex was non-consensual, it may lead to their prosecution.

Those who have been sexually assaulted are advised to call the British Embassy on +974 4496 2000 for advice. It has also provided written guidance for victims of rape or sexual assault in Qatar.

Is Qatar safe for LGBT travellers?

Homosexuality is illegal in Qatar. Same-sex relationships can lead to imprisonment or the death penalty.

• Best hotels in Qatar • Best things to do in Qatar

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Inspired to visit Qatar but yet to book your trip? Here are the best packages from BA Holidays and Expedia .

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Qatar Visa For UK Citizens and Residents (2024)

Doha Guides Team regularly reviews this article to ensure the content is up-to-date and accurate. The last editorial review and update were on 16 January 2024.

The UK and Qatar are strong partners, collaborating on various important matters like politics, business, security, and the economy.

Each year, thousands of people from the UK , including both citizens and residents, come to Qatar for holidays and employment opportunities. Qatar Tourism even ranks the United Kingdom among the top 10 countries that send visitors to Qatar. Moreover, Qatar is home to a flourishing community of British expatriates.

This article explains everything you need to know about getting a Qatar Visa for UK Citizens and the essential things to consider before traveling to Qatar.

Qatar Visa For UK Citizens

Qatar visa for uk residents, qatar visa for uk visa holders, qatar transit visa for uk citizens, qatar oman joint visa, flying to qatar, things to consider while visiting qatar, qatar entry requirements for uk citizens, british embassy in qatar, frequently asked questions, current status of qatar visa on arrival for uk citizens.

Qatar has a very liberal visa-on-arrival policy that enables travellers from more than 100 countries to visit Qatar without a pre-arranged visa. This approach is commonly referred to as a visa-waiver program .

Now, let’s address the most common question:

Do UK citizens need visa for Qatar?

UK citizens who have regular passports can visit Qatar as tourists for up to 30 days, subject to some entry requirements. They can also extend their visit for another 30 days.

Here are the important requirements to get a visa on arrival:

• Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months after you arrive.
• You should have a return or onward flight ticket.
• You must have a hotel booking or a confirmed accommodation.
• If you plan to stay in Qatar for more than 30 days, you must get a visitor’s health insurance through the MOPH website.

For more information about Qatar’s visa-on-arrival program, check out our Complete Guide To Qatar Visa On Arrival .

Qatar Visa for British Passport Holders

Note that you can get a tourist visa on arrival if you’re travelling on a full British Citizen passport . You must still get a visa if:

• You are travelling for any purpose other than tourism.
• You hold  another type of British passport .

Qatar Visa For UK Citizens Cost

Getting a visa on arrival (visa waiver) in Qatar is free for UK citizens . The visa extension is also free.

The free visa-on-arrival facility applies only to UK citizens and not to UK residents or UK visitors .

• If you are a UK resident with a foreign passport, you should check if your home country’s passport is eligible to get a visa on arrival in Qatar .
• If not, you can apply for ETA Visa (A3) through Hayya Portal.
• You can also enter using other pre-approved visas like Tourist Visa , Family Visit Visa or Business Visa .

If you hold a valid visa to the United Kingdom you can enter the State of Qatar by applying for ETA Visa (A3) through Hayya Portal .

Alternatively you can check if your nationality is eligible for visa-on-arrival .

If you are UK citizen (or citizen of any country) passing through Doha airport and don’t plan to leave the airport, you don’t need a transit visa . For more information about this, read our detailed guide on transit through Doha airport .

The online application service for the Qatar Transit Visa is currently suspended. If you want to explore the city during your layover, you can get a visa on arrival as mentioned earlier. Or, you can ask your local Qatar Airways office if they can help you get a Transit Visa.

UK citizens can also visit Qatar without a visa if they have a tourist visa from Oman. You can read about the Qatar-Oman Joint Tourist Visa here .

If you’re booking flights to Qatar, we highly recommend Qatar Airways. It’s a 5-star airline known for its luxury, comfort, and extensive global network. Booking with Qatar Airways means you’ll have an amazing travel experience. Check out the latest offers from Qatar Airways here .

UK citizens visiting Qatar should respect the local traditions, cultures, and laws. Here are some important things to remember:

• Dress modestly: Cover your shoulders, chest, stomach, and knees. Tight leggings should be covered by long shirts or dresses. Here is a helpful article on how to what to wear in Qatar .
• Driving: UK citizens can drive temporarily in Qatar with their UK driver’s license. The British Embassy recommends getting an International Driving Permit (IDP) from the UK. Read our guide to driving in Qatar for more details.
• Alcohol: Alcohol is allowed but strictly regulated . It’s only available in limited places to non-Muslim, non-Qatari adults who are 21 or older. Public drinking and getting drunk are against the law.
• Drugs: Most drugs that are illegal in the UK are also illegal in Qatar, including marijuana/THC.
• Relationships: Living together while unmarried is illegal in Qatar. Sex outside marriage is illegal for both same-sex and opposite-sex couples.
• Personal ID: You are required by law to carry a physical form of identification at all times.
• Privacy: It’s illegal to take pictures or videos of people without their permission.
• Medical care: Pregnant women should be prepared to show a marriage certificate to get prenatal care. Also, remember that UK health insurance may not work overseas, so it’s smart to get extra insurance for medical emergencies.
• LGBTQIA+ travelers: Homosexuality is against the law in Qatar. Check the official Travel Advice from British Embassy.

If you are a visitor to Qatar, follow these entry requirements:

• Your passport must be valid for at least six months to get a visa-waiver.
• Your passport must be machine-readable.
• You must have a confirmed accommodation.
• You need a return or onward flight ticket.
• If you plan to stay in Qatar for more than 30 days, you must have health insurance . The standard insurance premium is 50 Qatari riyals per person, per month.
• In 2023, you don’t need COVID vaccination or PCR testing to enter Qatar.
• If you’re coming from Afghanistan or Pakistan, you need to be vaccinated against polio.

The British Embassy in Qatar maintains and develops relations between the UK and Qatar.

The British Embassy in Qatar is located at West Bay (Dafna Area). Consular services are provided at the embassy by appointment only.

You can phone the Consular Section on +974 4496 2000 (available 24/7). You can also find additional details on the UK Embassy in Qatar website .

Emergency Contacts

• If you need urgent help from British Embassy call +974 4496 2000 (available 24/7).
• If you’re in the UK and worried about a British person in Qatar, call 020 7008 5000 (available 24/7).
• For emergency services within Qatar (police, ambulance, fire) call 999.

READ NEXT: Guide To Qatar Visa On Arrival

Can British citizens travel to Qatar without a visa?

British citizens traveling to Qatar can get a 30-day tourist visa on arrival, subject to certain conditions like six months of passport validity, return flight tickets, and confirmed accommodation.

Do UK residents need visas for Qatar?

Citizens from over 100 countries can enter Qatar without a visa, but UK residents are not granted any special privileges. If your home country qualifies for a visa waiver, you can visit Qatar without a visa; otherwise, you can apply for an ETA visa online.

Do I need Covid vaccination or testing to visit Qatar?

You do not need to undergo COVID-19 vaccination or testing to visit Qatar in 2023, as stated in Qatar’s Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) latest travel policy. Pre-travel and post-travel COVID testing, as well as Ehteraz pre-registration, are not mandatory.

Is travelling to Qatar safe for UK citizens?

Traveling to Qatar is generally considered safe for UK citizens. Nonetheless, it’s prudent to exercise standard precautions, despite the country’s low crime rates, as is recommended for any travel.

Related Articles:

• Carrying Medicines To Qatar: Things To Know
• Qatar Customs Prohibited Items
• How Much Cash and Gold Can Your Bring To Qatar
• Driving in Qatar: Rules For Visitors
• Visiting Qatar: Complete Guide

Copyright © DohaGuides.com – Unauthorized reproduction of this article in any language is prohibited. The information provided on this website is intended for general guidance and informational purposes only. It should not be considered a substitute for professional advice, and travelers are encouraged to verify visa requirements and travel advisories through official government sources before making any travel arrangements.

Aneesh, the Founder & Editor of DG Pixels, holds a Master’s Degree in Communication & Journalism, and has two decades of experience living in the Middle East. Since 2014, he and his team have been sharing helpful content on travel, visa rules, and expatriate affairs.

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Middle East GCC

• Iran English ایران فارسی
• Iraq English العراق العربيّة
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Enhance your experience and save time at the airport by checking in through qatarairways.com or our mobile app. 

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• Online check-in for flights from the U.S. opens 24 hours prior to departure and check-in for flights to the U.S. opens 24 hours prior to departure from Doha.
• For all other flights, online check-in is available 48 hours to 90 minutes prior to departure. Note: For passengers transiting in Doha, online check in is available for the entire journey 48 hours to 90 minutes prior to the departure of their onward flights from Doha. 
• Online check-in is available for flights operated by Qatar Airways, as well as for trips where the first segment is operated by Qatar Airways. 

The airports listed below will allow you to use a digital boarding pass on your mobile.

• Africa : Durban
• Europe : Amsterdam, Athens, Barcelona, Belgrade, Berlin, Birmingham, Brussels, Bucharest, Budapest, Cardiff, Copenhagen, Dublin, Edinburgh, Frankfurt, Geneva, Helsinki, Kyiv, Larnaca, London, London Gatwick, Madrid, Malaga, Manchester, Milan, Munich, Mykonos, Nice, Oslo, Paris, Pisa, Prague, Rome, Skopje, Sofia, Stockholm, Tbilisi, Thessaloniki, Venice, Vienna, Warsaw, Yerevan, Zagreb, Zurich
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• GCC :  Doha*

*Passengers will not need a printed boarding pass to use the e-gate in Doha. However, passengers going through passport control are required to have a printed boarding pass.

You can use the self-service check-in kiosks and automated baggage drop stations to check in for your flight with Qatar Airways at the airports below:

Self-service check-in kiosk:

• Europe : Copenhagen (CPH), Geneva (GVA), Frankfurt (FRA), London Heathrow (LHR), London Gatwick (LGW), Manchester (MAN), Paris (CDG), Tbilisi (TBS), Toulouse (TLS)
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• Middle East & GCC : Amman (AMM), Doha (DOH), Kuwait (KWI), Muscat (MCT) 
• Africa: Lusaka (LUN)

Automated baggage drop:

• Europe : Copenhagen (CPH), London (LHR), Manchester (MAN)
• Asia and the Pacific : Bangkok (BKK), Perth (PER), Singapore (SIN)
• Middle East & GCC :  Doha (DOH)

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