Qatar has implemented a regulation requiring travellers to purchase health insurance through one of a number of specified, Qatari insurance providers on a government health website. This needs to be done prior to entering the country. 

The first phase of Doha’s policy came into effect on February 1 and applies to all travellers visiting the country, but not to those transiting through it.

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According to the Ministry of Public Health’s website, travellers can obtain a visitor insurance policy from one of the registered insurance companies by using this link.  Once the insurance policy has been issued by the selected insurance company, the Ministry of Interior will issue the appropriate visitor visa.

The policy’s effective date of coverage will be the date of entry at any border. If travellers wish to extend their stay in the country, they must purchase a new health insurance policy.

Travellers have been advised to purchase the policy prior to travelling to save time on arrival in the country. 

The policy costs QAR50 (R236) and is valid for 30 days. Travellers who wish to purchase additional cover can also do so through their selected insurance company.

The policy covers the following:

• Emergency medical treatment up to QAR150 000 (R707 300) for the policy period and within the State of Qatar. 
• Emergency medical assistance with a sub-limit of QAR35 000 (R165 055), including emergency ambulance transportation within the State of Qatar, and medical evacuation to the traveller’s country of residence.
• COVID-19 and quarantine with a sub-limit up to QAR50 000 (R235 790), which covers treatment for positive cases and quarantine expenses for confirmed cases up to QAR300 (R1 415) per day.  
• In the event of the traveller’s death within the State of Qatar, the cost of repatriation is covered up to an amount of QAR10 000 (R47 160).

No co-payment or deductibles are required for any covered services as per the terms and conditions stipulated in the visitor's health insurance policy. There is also no waiting period required under the policy.

The Ministry of Interior has also announced the extension of the Hayya Card’s validity until January 24, 2024. 

The card allows travellers to make use of the e-gate system at the country’s ports of entry, and acts as a multi-entry permit for the cardholder. Hayya card holders can enter the state of Qatar provided they meet the following conditions:

• They have proof of a confirmed hotel reservation or accommodation with family or friends issued through the Hayya portal.
• Their passport is valid for a minimum of three months from the date of entry into the country.
• The have purchased health insurance.
• They have purchased a round-trip flight ticket.