Doha: Qatar’s Cabinet has approved the establishment of the “Permanent Committee for Managing the Entry of Visitors and Applicants for Premium Residency in the State of Qatar (Hayya Platform)” under the Ministry of Interior.
According to a decision published in the Official Gazette on May 7, 2026, the committee will oversee procedures related to visitor entry and Premium Residency applications through the Hayya digital platform in coordination with relevant authorities.
The committee aims to facilitate entry procedures, improve visitor experience and unify application mechanisms through the platform.
Its responsibilities include:
-Receiving exceptional entry requests through the Hayya Platform for categories stipulated under Article 46/5 of Law No. 21 of 2015.
-Implementing and following up on procedures related to the entry of visitors and Premium Residency applicants in coordination with the competent authority at the Ministry of Interior.
-Establishing standards to facilitate entry procedures to Qatar through the Hayya Platform in coordination with relevant entities.
-Unifying and standardizing mechanisms for receiving applications and sharing data in a way that enhances visitor experience.
-Ensuring that Hayya Platform procedures comply with laws, public policies and international agreements to which Qatar is a party.
-Periodically reviewing visa-related procedures, fees, requirements and processing timelines.
-Developing mechanisms for receiving visitors and Premium Residency applicants, including exempted cases determined by the Minister of Interior, and reviewing and issuing related visas after verifying compliance with all requirements.
-Coordinating with concerned entities regarding unified visas for events and occasions, as well as organizing permits for organizers, visitors and Premium Residency applicants through the Hayya Platform.
-Evaluating and following up on marketing and promotional plans for the Hayya Platform.
-Approving technical and administrative development plans for the platform and monitoring their implementation.
-Following up on technological development and cybersecurity updates in line with local and international standards.
-Supervising procedures related to awarding contracts to companies operating the platform and obtaining the necessary approvals.
-Implementing and following up on procedures related to the entry and residency of Premium Residency applicants in coordination with relevant authorities.
-Undertaking any additional tasks assigned by the Minister of Interior within the committee’s jurisdiction.
The committee will also determine categories eligible to apply for Premium Residency in accordance with Law No. 21 of 2015.
The decision stated that all relevant authorities are required to implement the new regulations within their respective jurisdictions.
The committee’s establishment will take effect from the day following the publication of the decision in the Official Gazette.
