A Complete Guide On How To Travel From The UAE To Qatar

Qatar is one of the most popular travel destinations in the Gulf region. From beautiful beaches and desert dunes to luxury shopping and fine dining, Qatar has something for every traveller. Best of all, it’s easy to travel from the UAE to Qatar — whether by air, road, or sea.

This guide explains all the travel options, visa rules, required documents, and tips to help you plan your journey from the UAE to Qatar in 2025.

UAE To Qatar Travel & Visa Details Highlights

Entry & Visa Rules 

For UAE Nationals

• UAE passport holders do not need a visa to enter Qatar.
• They can travel freely and stay for up to 90 days without any special permit.

For UAE Residents (Expats)

• Citizens of over 95 countries are eligible for visa-free or visa-on-arrival entry into Qatar.
• Indian, Pakistani, and Iranian passport holders can get a visa on arrival, but must meet extra conditions (see below).
• Visa-free stays can be:
  • 30 days (extendable once)
  • 90 days for selected nationalities

Documents Needed:

• Passport (valid for at least 6 months)
• Return flight ticket (if flying)
• Hotel booking confirmation
• Hayya Card (required for visa-free entry)
• COVID-19 vaccination proof (if required by current rules)
• Negative PCR or Antigen test result (see health rules below)
• For GCC residents: Profession proof may be needed (e.g., doctor, engineer, etc.)

What Is The Hayya Card?

The Hayya Card is a mandatory digital permit for many travellers to Qatar. It acts as both:

• A visa-free entry pass
• A public transport pass

Why do you need it?

• Required for UAE residents to enter Qatar without a visa
• Whether you travel by air, road, or sea
• Free public transport across Qatar

How to apply:

• Visit the official Hayya portal online
• Upload passport, travel details, and a photo
• Get approval within a few days

Travel Options From UAE To Qatar

A. By Air (Fastest Option)

• Flight time: 1 to 2 hours
• Several daily flights from Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah
• Airlines include: Qatar Airways, Emirates, Air Arabia, FlyDubai

Requirements:

• Book flight in advance
• Apply for Hayya Card (if not a UAE national)
• Prepare COVID-19 test result and hotel booking (for some nationalities)

B. By Road (Best for Adventure & Flexibility)

Driving time:

• Around 5 to 7 hours from Dubai or Abu Dhabi to Doha
• Routes go through Saudi Arabia, so you pass through two borders:
  1. Ghuwaifat (UAE-Saudi border)
  2. Salwa/Abu Samra (Saudi-Qatar border)

New Rule (2025):

• At the Abu Samra border, you must park your car and take a free shuttle bus into Doha

Documents Needed:

• Passport and visa (or Hayya Card)
• Valid car insurance (GCC-wide)
• Tourism Certificate from RTA (if expat and driving a Dubai-registered car)
• Clearance Certificate (if the car is not in your name)

Extra Tips:

• Get GCC-wide third-party insurance for at least 30 days
• Expect border delays, especially on weekends or holidays

C. By Sea (Cruise or Private Boat)

Though no public ferry runs from the UAE to Qatar, you can:

• Book a cruise that includes Qatar in the itinerary (check local cruise lines)
• Charter a private yacht or boat from Dubai to Doha

Important:

• You still need a Hayya Card
• Check for port entry requirements and marine insurance

Health & Safety Rules

COVID-19 Rules (Subject to Change):

• Negative PCR test (48 hrs before travel) or Rapid Antigen test (24 hrs before)
• Home antigen tests are not accepted
• Full vaccination is recommended (check Qatar MoPH guidelines)

Upon Arrival:

• Download and activate the Ehteraz App (available for Android and iOS)
• You’ll need a local SIM card or use your passport number for registration

Special Rules For Select Nationals

If you’re a UAE resident holding a passport from India, Pakistan, or Iran:

• Hotel booking is mandatory
• You must register on the Ehteraz portal before travel
• You may be asked for extra documents at the border or airport
• You’re eligible for visa on arrival if all conditions are met

GCC Resident Visa Holders

If you’re a resident of any GCC country:

• You can apply for a single-entry visa (30 days) online or get it on arrival
• Must present proof of profession
• Visa is renewable once for another 30 days

Final Travel Checklist

• Passport (6-month validity)
• Confirmed flight/transport ticket
• Hayya Card approval
• Hotel reservation (for some nationalities)
• Car documents (if driving)
• Health insurance (recommended)
• PCR or Antigen test result
• Download Ehteraz app

Travelling from the UAE to Qatar is smooth and simple in 2025 if you follow the latest rules. Choose your mode of travel, check your visa eligibility, and prepare your documents in advance. Qatar offers an exciting mix of culture, adventure, and modern attractions — just a short trip away from the UAE.

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