Qatar’s Hayya platform, now overseen by Qatar Tourism (QT), has reached a significant milestone with more than 2 million e-visa applications processed since the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.
Between 2023 and today, the platform handled over 1.5 million individual applications, highlighting its ability to manage large volumes efficiently. The Hayya mobile app currently counts 2.7 million active users, with more than 60,000 applications processed monthly since April 2023.
Saeed Al Kuwari, Director of Hayya, said:
“Following the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, we enhanced the Hayya system to accommodate multiple visa types. By implementing the right technologies and aligning with security requirements, the system has proven highly effective, as reflected in recent statistics. These improvements have greatly supported the tourism sector by streamlining processes and elevating the visitor experience.”
Originally designed to manage fan entry during the World Cup, the Hayya platform has since evolved into a comprehensive e-visa ecosystem, now offering five visa categories:
Tourist Visa (A1)
GCC Resident Visa (A2)
Visa with ETA (A3)
Companion of GCC Citizen Visa (A4)
Hayya Visa Waiver for US Citizens (F1)
The system has also demonstrated scalability, handling 2.4 million applications during the World Cup and processing nearly 50,000 visitor entries in a single day.
Looking ahead, Qatar Tourism is preparing to launch Hayya 2.0, featuring an upgraded web portal and mobile app. Enhancements will include a streamlined payment gateway and new features to improve efficiency for both visitors and businesses.
QT noted that the platform will continue to support Qatar’s digital transformation goals, in line with the Qatar National Vision 2030 and the National Tourism Strategy. Beyond visas, Hayya integrates event access, domestic tourism, lifestyle experiences, transport, and daily services into one platform—simplifying entry procedures while promoting cultural landmarks, natural attractions, and year-round events.
With these developments, Hayya remains central to Qatar’s ambition of strengthening its position as a leading global tourism and business destination.
Source: arabianbusiness.com
