November 10 – Saudi Arabia’s Tourism Authority has extended its own use of the Hayya Card – the mandatory card that allows fans entry to Qatar for the World Cup – to include three more people travelling with the car holder (‘Hayya with Me (1+3)’).
In August the Saudis announced that the Hayya Card would act as a multi-entry visa to the country, enabling visitors to enter and secure a visa for Saudi free of charge. Under the extended scheme the three companions must also hold a valid Hayya Card to gain free-of-charge entry to Saudi.
Visas will allow a 60-day stay in Saudi beginning 10 days before the tournament, without fees to issue the visa.
With accommodation in Qatar at a premium and in short supply, Saudi is a realistic alternative location for fans being on the border.
Short hopper flights are available to key Saudi destinations, with airline Saudia operating 40 shuttle flights daily to Doha from both Jeddah and Riyadh, increased to 60 daily flights on the Saudi team’s match days.
The Salwa Border Crossing between Saudi and Qatar will also be open for travel and the port will have an increased daily capacity of more than 24,000 cars.
Saudi has lifted all travel Covid restrictions for international travellers.
Contact the writer of this story at moc.l1731736296labto1731736296ofdlr1731736296owedi1731736296sni@n1731736296osloh1731736296cin.l1731736296uap1731736296