DUBAI, United Arab Emirates – The UAE introduced a multiple-entry visa costing $27 (AED 100) for visitors to the FIFA World Cup in Qatar.
From November 1, owners of the “Hayya” card will be able to purchase a multiple-entry tourist visa for a discounted rate for a 90-day period, according to a report from the Emirates News Agency on Tuesday.
The program is a part of UAE efforts to assist Qatar in hosting the 2022 FIFA World Cup, according to WAM.
The authorities have also added a clause that will enable card holders to extend their visas for an additional 90 days at the standard rate.
How to obtain a multiple-entry UAE visa
Holders of “Hayya” cards will be able to apply for the multiple-entry tourist visa online via the website of the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP).
The visa can be obtained by selecting the “Hayya Card Holders” option under the “Smart Channels” section of the “Public Services” menu. To complete the process, payment and traveler information are required.
As of right now, travelers from nations without visa requirements are permitted to enter and remain in the UAE. The 90-day stay restriction will begin on the day the visa is issued.
What exactly is a “Hayya” card?
According to information on the FIFA website, the “Hayya” card serves as both a visa for entry into Qatar and a pass for stadium access.
Everyone attending the FIFA World Cup matches is supposedly required to have this individualized document. Additionally, it will grant free access to buses and the metro in Qatar.
Saudi Arabia visa for bearers of “Hayya” cards
Ten days prior to the commencement of the event, spectators holding the “Hayya” fan ID will be given a visa to enter Saudi Arabia that will allow them to stay for 60 days.
During that time, they will be able to leave and enter the nation thanks to the visa. Before visiting Saudi Arabia, everyone requesting a visa must purchase health insurance.
In a social media post via Twitter, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia released a guide for holders of the Hayya card. Here are the steps as given by KSA Foreign Ministry:
“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia welcomes all holders of the (Hayya) card to the fans of the #FIFAWorldCupQatar2022”
“Allowing holders of Hayya fan card to enter the Kingdom ten days before the start of the World Cup after obtaining an e-visa through the unified national visa platform. The ministry will announce later on how to apply for the visa and the mechanism of obtaining it”
“Visa holders can stay in the Kingdom for only 60 days”
“Visa holders have the right to enter and exit the Kingdom several times during the validity period of the visa”
“Pre-entry to the State of Qatar is not required”
“Obtain medical insurance before coming to the Kingdom”
FIFA Qatar
The opening match of the greatest football event, between Qatar and Ecuador, takes place at Doha’s al-Bayt Arena on November 20.
A significant pressure on Qatar’s infrastructure is anticipated as a result of the upcoming influx of tourists.
This month, FIFA said that more than 2.45 million tickets had been purchased. This would imply that during the tournament, the nation’s current population of about 2.7 million people will more than double.
According to numerous reports, the Gulf state is anticipated to have trouble housing the spectators and will ask its neighboring nations for assistance in providing hotel rooms.
Al Arabiya English reported last month that hoteliers in Dubai were seeing an increase in bookings, with many anticipating being completely booked throughout the competition.
Anyone planning to enter the country after November 1st must submit an application for a Hayya card. It is purportedly mandatory for everyone attending FIFA World Cup matches to have this unique document.
It will also provide free access to Qatar’s buses and metro system.
