IMPACT – HIGH

Qatar recently made amendments to its pandemic-related travel and return policies.

Key Points:

  • Qatari nationals and residents are permitted to leave Qatar but they must follow the requirements of the travel and return policy.
  • Qatari nationals and residents who intend to travel to a country or countries that are not on the COVID-19 “green list” must make arrangements before they travel abroad to quarantine upon returning to Qatar at a hotel listed on the “Discover Qatar” website.
  • If they are employed, Qatari nationals and residents intending to travel abroad must consult with their employers to coordinate travel and return dates, including the quarantine period.
  • Qatari nationals and their spouses and children are allowed to return to Qatar, as long as they follow all travel and return policy requirements. Permanent residents are also allowed to return and are subject to the same requirements.
  • Qatari nationals and residents who wish to travel abroad and who have certain medical conditions that qualify them for Vulnerable Groups as defined by the travel and return policy can opt for a home quarantine upon their return by first obtaining a medical certificate on the Health Portal. They must obtain the medical certificate when they book their flight before leaving Qatar. Information about Vulnerable Groups is available here in Section 7.

Additional Information: Testing and health protocols remain in place for travelers entering Qatar. Information about them is available here.

Analysis & Comments: The changes will complicate travel to and from Qatar. Employers who wish to send employees to Qatar may wish to discuss their plans with Deloitte. The response to the COVID-19 pandemic continues to develop, and Deloitte will provide additional updates as information becomes available. Please check Deloitte’s COVID-19 Digital Map, available here, for information on travel restrictions and immigration changes in other countries.

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