Qatar Visa For Saudi Iqama Holders
Are you a Saudi Iqama holder planning to visit Qatar? Good news, Qatar has made it easier for GCC residents, including Saudi Arabia, to enter the country for tourism, family visits, or business purposes. Depending on your profession and documents, you may be eligible for a visa on arrival, an e-visa, or other types of permits.
Qatar Visa For Saudi Iqama Holders. you will learn about the types of Qatar visas for Saudi Iqama holders, visa fees, application steps, and even the process of traveling from Saudi Arabia to Qatar by road.
Types of Qatar Visas for Saudi Iqama Holders
1. Qatar Visa on Arrival
Saudi Iqama holders are among the eligible GCC residents who can get a visa on arrival in Qatar if they meet certain conditions:
- Iqama must be valid for at least 3 months.
- Passport should have at least 6 months validity.
- Profession on Iqama must be on Qatar’s approved list.
- Must show a confirmed hotel booking and return ticket.
- Payment of visa fee (QR 100) via credit or debit card (if applicable).
Validity:
- 30 days, with a one-time extension of 30 more days.
- Single entry only.
2. Qatar E-Visa for Saudi Iqama Holders
If your Iqama profession does not qualify for visa on arrival, you can apply for a Qatar e-visa via the Hayya Portal.
Documents Required:
- Passport and Iqama copy (valid for 6 months).
- Passport-sized photo.
- Return flight ticket.
- Hotel booking or invitation letter.
- Payment using debit/credit card.
Processing Time:
- Normally 24–72 hours.
- Final approval is given by Qatar Immigration.
3. Qatar Family Visit Visa
If you want to visit family in Qatar, you can apply for a Family Visit Visa.
Eligibility:
- Must be a first-degree relative (spouse, children, parents, siblings).
- The sponsor in Qatar must hold a valid residency permit.
Validity:
- Issued for 30 days initially.
- Extendable up to 6 months.
4. Qatar Business Visa
For conferences, meetings, or official visits, Saudi Iqama holders can apply for a Business Visa.
Requirements:
- Invitation letter from a Qatari company.
- Valid passport + Saudi Iqama.
- Proof of business purpose (contracts, agreements).
- Hotel booking and return ticket.
Validity:
- 30 days, extendable for another 30 days.
5. Qatar Transit Visa
Qatar Airways passengers can apply for a free Qatar transit visa if their layover is between 5–96 hours.
Eligibility:
- Must have a confirmed onward ticket.
- Processing takes about 24 hours.
How to Apply for a Qatar Visa as a Saudi Iqama Holder
Step-by-Step Visa on Arrival Process
- Arrive at Hamad International Airport.
- Go to the visa on arrival counter.
- Show your passport, Saudi Iqama, and return ticket.
- Provide hotel booking confirmation.
- Pay the visa fee (if required).
- Receive your visa stamp and enter Qatar.
Step-by-Step E-Visa Application
- Visit the Hayya Portal.
- Register your account with an email.
- Fill in travel details and upload documents.
- Pay visa fee online.
- Wait for approval (24–72 hours).
- Download and print the visa.
- Show it at the airport when arriving in Qatar.
Step-by-Step Family & Business Visa Application
- Family Visa:
Submitted by the sponsor in Qatar. Documents include passport, Saudi Iqama, proof of relationship, and Qatari ID of the sponsor. - Business Visa:
Application supported by the host company in Qatar, along with business invitation letters and supporting documents.
Qatar Visa Fees for Saudi Iqama Holders
| Visa Type | Fee (Approx.) | Validity |
|---|---|---|
| Visa on Arrival | Free / QR 100 | 30 days + 30 extension |
| E-Visa | QR 100–200 | 30 days |
| Family Visit Visa | QR 200–300 | 1–6 months |
| Business Visa | QR 200–300 | 30–60 days |
| Transit Visa | Free | 5–96 hours |
Qatar Visa Rejection Reasons
Sometimes, visa applications are rejected for Saudi Iqama holders. Common reasons include:
- Expired or invalid passport/Iqama.
- Wrong profession on Iqama.
- Missing documents.
- Previous travel bans or violations.
Solution: Always double-check eligibility, prepare all required documents, and apply through official portals.
Travel from Saudi Arabia to Qatar by Road
Many Saudi residents prefer to drive to Qatar. Here’s how you can go by road:
- Cross the Salwa border crossing between Saudi Arabia and Qatar.
- Carry original passport, Saudi Iqama, and car ownership documents.
- Make sure your car has valid insurance that covers Qatar.
- Once at the border, your documents will be checked before entry.
This route is especially convenient for families and short business trips.
Qatar Visa for UK BRP Holders
If you hold a UK Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) along with a Saudi Iqama, you can apply for a Qatar visa either through the Hayya Portal or get a visa on arrival (if your profession is eligible). Always check the latest rules before traveling.
Qatar Visa-Free Countries for GCC Residents
Saudi Iqama holders with certain professions can enjoy visa-free entry to Qatar. However, it is important to check the updated list of eligible professions on the Hayya Portal before traveling.
Qatar 1 Year Visa Price
Qatar also offers long-term visas for business and residency purposes. The 1-year visa price varies depending on the category, usually starting from QR 1,000 to QR 2,000. These are often sponsored by employers or Qatari residents.
Qatar New Visa on Arrival Rules
In 2025, Qatar has updated its visa on arrival policy for GCC residents:
- Only specific professions are eligible.
- Mandatory hotel booking via Discover Qatar portal in some cases.
- Proof of return ticket is required.
- Visa extensions must be applied online before expiry.
Travel Tips for Saudi Iqama Holders Visiting Qatar
✔ Apply early if you need an e-visa.
✔ Keep extra photocopies of documents.
✔ Travel outside peak season for faster approvals.
✔ Stay updated with Qatar Immigration announcements.
Essential Contact Information for Saudi Iqama Holders
Qatar Embassy in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- Abdullah Alsahmi St, Al Safarat, Riyadh 11693
- +966 11 482 5685
- [email protected]
- riyadh.embassy.qa
FAQs on Qatar Visa for Saudi Iqama Holders
Can Saudi Iqama holders enter Qatar without a visa?
No, Saudi Iqama holders cannot enter Qatar completely visa-free, but many are eligible for a visa on arrival if their Iqama profession is on Qatar’s approved list. Others must apply online through the Hayya Portal.
How much is a Qatar 3-month visit visa price for Saudi Iqama holders?
A 3-month Qatar visit visa usually costs between QR 300 and QR 500, depending on the visa type and duration. Fees are payable online or at the airport for visa on arrival.
How can I apply for a free Qatar visa online?
Saudi Iqama holders can apply for a free Qatar transit visa online if their layover is between 5–96 hours with Qatar Airways. For longer visits, a paid e-visa is required through the Hayya Portal.
Can I travel from Saudi Arabia to Qatar by road?
Yes, Saudi Iqama holders can drive to Qatar through the Salwa border crossing. You must carry a valid passport, Saudi Iqama, car registration, and insurance that covers Qatar.
What are the new rules for Qatar visa on arrival in 2025?
The new Qatar visa on arrival rules include:
- Only certain Iqama professions are eligible.
- Valid hotel booking and return ticket are mandatory.
- Visa is valid for 30 days and extendable once.
How much is a Qatar 1-year visa price for Saudi residents?
The Qatar 1-year visa (business or residency) usually costs around QR 1,000 to QR 2,000, depending on the category and sponsor.
Do UK BRP holders need a visa for Qatar if they also have Saudi Iqama?
Yes, UK BRP holders with Saudi Iqama must still apply for a Qatar visa. They may be eligible for visa on arrival or can apply online through the Hayya portal.
What documents are required for a Qatar visa for Saudi Iqama holders?
Required documents include:
- Valid passport (6 months minimum).
- Valid Saudi Iqama.
- Passport-sized photo.
- Hotel booking or invitation letter.
- Return flight ticket.
- Debit/credit card for fee payment.
How long does it take to process a Qatar e-visa?
The Qatar e-visa is processed within 24–72 hours if all documents are correct. Applicants receive their visa via email.
Why do Qatar visa applications get rejected for Saudi Iqama holders?
Visa applications may be rejected due to:
- Expired Iqama or passport.
- Wrong profession on Iqama.
- Missing or incorrect documents.
- Previous travel bans or violations.
Conclusion
For Saudi Iqama holders, traveling to Qatar is simple and convenient if you know the right process. You can choose between visa on arrival, e-visa, family visa, business visa, or transit visa depending on your travel needs. By ensuring valid documents and following the official steps, you can enjoy a smooth entry to Qatar—whether by air or road.
From affordable short-term visas to long-term one-year options, Qatar offers flexible choices for Saudi residents. Stay updated with the latest visa rules to make your journey stress-free and memorable.
