U.S Welcomes Qatar as 42nd State to Enter America: Visa-Free

Written by: Ahmad El Khalaf
- Senior News Producer & War Journalist

Qatar will become the 42nd member of the United States’ Visa Waiver Program and the first Arab country to join.

The UK, countries in the EU, and several countries worldwide have joined the US waiver program throughout the decades, and with Qatar as the first Arabian country now added to the list – makes it a landmark of geopolitical relations between the two counterparts.

Several requirements are essential prior to entering this agreement with the US, amongst them are economic, humanitarian, and good diplomatic relationships. With Qatar setting a precedent in all these categories, and its latest mediation efforts along with Egypt in securing 240 Israeli hostages, and its humanitarian support for the injured civilians in Gaza – these requirements were simply met.

The Arabian cultural capital of Doha will be entitled to this Visa Waiver starting on the 1st of December 2024, providing Qatari Passport holders with 90 days' access to the United States. Access will not be limited to tourism, but also business and short-term work.

Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Amir of the State of Qatar, addresses the general debate of the General Assembly’s seventy-ninth session.

Speaking at the United Nations' General Assembly in New York, Sheikh Tamim chose to focus parts of his speech on the immense need of the de-escalation of the Israeli offensive, explaining that Qatar will continue to support the civilians of Gaza, along with the freeing of the remaining Israeli hostages.

With Qatar setting a precedent by hosting 3 successful football cups
within a five-year-period that hosted hundreds of thousands of visitors,
and with organisations such as Qatar Foundation and the Education Above All Foundation that has provided learning to over half a million children worldwide – Qatar has gained some of the US’ Visa Waiver program requirements - uniquely.