Plans have been outlined for an “efficient and transparent” new tourist visa application system via online and mobile platforms for travellers to Qatar.
Visa processing services firm VFS Global has been employed to work with Qatar Airways and Qatar Tourism Authority to establish a new tourist visa application process over the next few months. Full details of the new system will then be announced.
The agreement comes as Qatar steps up efforts to attract more visitors in line with the Gulf state’s National Tourism Sector Strategy 2030.
VFS Global chief executive, Zubin Karkaria, said: “We are pleased to partner with Qatar Airways and Qatar Tourism Authority to make the Qatar visa application process available to travellers globally, through online and mobile platforms.
“These new channels, which are sure to prove convenient and beneficial for visitors here, signify the next level of flexibility and security in the visa application process.
“This service will leverage on our experience and reliability in providing seamless visa application services, and will act as an important tool to boost tourism and make Qatar a preferred tourist destination.”
Qatar Airways chief executive, Akbar Al Baker, said: “Qatar’s tourism industry is experiencing exponential growth and the visa advancements announced today will further support our country’s vision to invite and welcome visitors from around the world to experience all that Qatar has to offer.”
Qatar Tourism Authority chief tourism development officer, Hassan Al Ibrahim, added: “Facilitating the visa application process is an important step in our drive to increase the number of visitor arrivals to Qatar, and in raising inbound tourism spending.
“This agreement is also testament to the public-private-partnerships that are employed in the development of the sector, creating positive impacts across the tourism value chain and the broader economy.”