Doha, Qatar – Travelers planning a trip to or from Qatar now have good news as the country has updated its Green List of destinations. The new list allows passengers arriving from specific countries to enter without undergoing mandatory quarantine, making international travel easier and more convenient.
The update is part of Qatar’s ongoing efforts to balance public safety while ensuring smooth international travel. The list is revised periodically based on global health conditions, infection rates, and government policies. With each update, new countries may be added or removed, depending on the situation.
What is the Green List?
Qatar introduced the Green List as part of its travel and health regulations to curb the spread of infectious diseases. Passengers arriving from Green List countries are exempt from quarantine requirements, provided they meet testing and vaccination criteria. This initiative has been a major relief for travelers, especially business professionals and tourists looking for a hassle-free entry into the country.
Latest Additions to the Green List
The latest update has brought significant changes, with several new countries joining the Green List. Some of the prominent additions include:
- Germany – Due to improved vaccination rates and declining COVID-19 cases, Germany has been re-added to the Green List, allowing easier travel between the two nations.
- Japan – With strict health measures in place and a high percentage of vaccinated citizens, Japan has secured a spot on the Green List.
- Canada – Travelers from Canada can now enter Qatar without mandatory quarantine, provided they meet testing requirements.
- Malaysia – Due to controlled infection rates and effective public health measures, Malaysia has been newly included in the Green List.
- Portugal – Portugal’s successful handling of the pandemic and high vaccination coverage have led to its inclusion.
- Countries that remain on the Green List include Australia, New Zealand, South Korea, and Singapore, among others. However, some nations have been removed due to rising cases, prompting stricter entry measures.
Who Can Benefit from the Green List?
The Green List benefits:
- Fully vaccinated travelers with approved vaccines
- Residents and citizens returning to Qatar
- Business travelers and tourists from Green List countries
Passengers must still undergo a pre-travel PCR test, usually within 48-72 hours before departure, and provide proof of vaccination when required.
What Happens If Your Country Is Not on the Green List?
If a traveler arrives from a country not on the Green List, they may have to:
- Quarantine Requirements:
- Additional COVID-19 Testing:
- Upon arrival, travelers must take a PCR test at the airport and remain in quarantine until a negative result is received.
- Some travelers may need to take multiple tests on different days, as required by health authorities.
- Entry Approval and Documentation:
- Travelers may need to apply for an Ehteraz pre-travel authorization before entering Qatar.
- Mandatory travel insurance covering COVID-19 expenses may be required for visitors.
- Proof of residence, travel history, and quarantine hotel booking (if applicable) must be presented at immigration.
- Exceptions and Special Cases:
Authorities strongly advise travelers to check Qatar’s official travel website before planning their trip to avoid last-minute surprises.
Impact on Tourism and Economy
The revised Green List is expected to have a positive impact on Qatar’s tourism and economy. As restrictions ease, more visitors are likely to explore the country’s attractions, including Doha’s Corniche, Souq Waqif, The Pearl, and the Museum of Islamic Art.
Additionally, businesses dependent on tourism, hospitality, and aviation are set to benefit, as international travel resumes more smoothly. Qatar Airways and Hamad International Airport are expected to see an increase in passengers, further boosting economic recovery.
How Often Does Qatar Update the Green List?
The Green List is reviewed regularly based on global health developments. The frequency of updates depends on:
- The number of COVID-19 cases worldwide
- The emergence of new virus variants
- International vaccination progress
Travelers are encouraged to keep an eye on official announcements from Qatar’s Ministry of Public Health (MOPH) for real-time updates.
Final Thoughts
The latest update to Qatar’s Green List is a welcome change for travelers seeking hassle-free movement. With more countries now eligible for quarantine-free entry, international travel is becoming more flexible and accessible. However, passengers should stay informed about Qatar’s travel policies, as changes can occur based on evolving health conditions worldwide.
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