Qatar Becomes First Arab Nation to Join U.S. Visa Waiver Program

Qatar Becomes First Arab Nation to Join U.S. Visa Waiver Program

The recent decision to include Qatar in the U.S. Visa Waiver Program (VWP) marks a significant milestone in strengthening ties between the two nations, reflecting Qatar's important diplomatic efforts in mediating international disputes involving Washington.  

Under the VWP, Qatari citizens can now travel visa-free to the U.S. for tourism or business purposes for up to 90 days. The agreement, announced jointly on Tuesday, will take effect no later than December 1, following updates to the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA).  

In return, Qatar has already increased the visa-free stay for U.S. citizens in Doha from 30 to 90 days, effective October 1.  

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas highlighted Qatar's compliance with stringent security criteria as a foundation for its designation, emphasizing how this step strengthens the bilateral strategic partnership and simplifies travel between the two nations.  

“Qatar’s fulfillment of the stringent security requirements to join the Visa Waiver Program will deepen our strategic partnership and enhance the flow of people and commerce between our two countries,” Blinken noted.  

The VWP includes rigorous requirements like low visa refusal rates, strong counterterrorism measures, and secure border management, making Qatar the 42nd member to meet these standards. Travelers holding valid U.S. visas can still use them as an alternative to the ESTA program.  

This development builds on Qatar's pivotal diplomatic and security roles, including mediating between Israel and Hamas, fostering dialogue in Venezuela, and hosting crucial negotiations involving Iran and the Taliban.  

Doha’s ambassador to Washington, Sheikh Meshal bin Hamad Al-Thani, described the designation as a testament to the deepening bilateral relationship, forecasting increased cooperation in trade, tourism, and cultural exchange.  

The move comes amid Qatar's designation as a Major Non-NATO Ally (MNNA) by President Joe Biden in 2022 and its hosting of Al-Udeid Airbase, the largest U.S. military base in the Middle East. This designation further solidifies Qatar’s role as a key U.S. partner in regional security and diplomacy.

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