Qatar: GCC citizens and residents without FIFA World Cup tickets allowed to enter without Hayya Card by air from Dec. 6, by car from Dec. 8.

Event

Authorities announced that citizens and residents of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries with no FIFA World Cup tickets will be allowed to enter Qatar through airports without a Hayya Card effective Dec. 6. GCC countries' residents and citizens will be able to enter through the land ports using private vehicles effective Dec. 8, after applying for an entry permit on the Ministry of the Interior's website 12 hours before the travel date. The purpose of these measures is to allow citizens and residents of GCC countries to enjoy the activities organized in Qatar for the FIFA World Cup, even if they do not hold a ticket.

Transport congestion and travel delays during the remaining part of the FIFA World Cup are likely. Increased scrutiny for other international travelers could still prompt processing delays at airports and border crossings. Additional security measures around World Cup matches, including security cordons and traffic restrictions, as well as the increased numbers of travelers, will likely prompt travel disruption in host cities.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Plan for increased air and ground traffic during the remaining period of the FIFA World Cup.