Qatar Taxis to Get Security Cameras Inside Vehicles
Qatar is moving to strengthen safety and oversight in taxis and limousine vehicles, with authorities set to require internal security cameras as part of tighter transportation regulations.
According to a report by Al Sharq, authorities are preparing stricter field measures covering taxis of different types and models. The reported measures include requiring limousine companies to install surveillance cameras inside their vehicles.
The move is aimed at making taxi journeys safer for both passengers and drivers, while creating a reliable record if a complaint, incident or violation is reported.
Why are cameras being installed in Qatar taxis?
The reported purpose of the Qatar taxi cameras is to:
Document trips
Protect passengers and drivers
Help deter unacceptable behaviour and violations
Provide a security record when complaints are made
Strengthen monitoring of taxi and limousine services
The cameras are also expected to be connected to central operations rooms, allowing authorities to monitor situations more effectively.
Qatar is also increasing taxi inspections
The camera requirement comes as Qatar continues to tighten oversight of passenger transportation companies.
The Ministry of Transport has already been carrying out inspection campaigns with relevant Ministry of Interior departments. Its Q1 2026 campaigns recorded 32 violations involving limousine companies and passenger transportation companies operating through electronic applications.
Authorities are also checking whether drivers have the required records, licences and permits, with particular attention to vehicles or drivers operating without proper authorisation.
What does this mean for passengers?
For people using Qatar taxis, limousines and ride-hailing services, the reported changes are primarily about improving safety and accountability.
If an incident occurs during a journey, an in-vehicle surveillance system could provide an official record that helps establish what happened.
Qatar already has legislation regulating the use of security and surveillance cameras. The country’s CCTV law sets rules governing recorded data, including restrictions on transferring, saving, sending or publishing recorded information without approval from the competent authority.
Qatar’s Ministry of Interior also has a specialised security systems department responsible for inspecting surveillance systems in public transport and public places to check their technical compliance and effectiveness.
What we know so far
What is being reported: Internal surveillance cameras will be required in limousine vehicles, alongside tougher inspections.
Why: Passenger and driver safety, accountability and prevention of violations.
Monitoring: Cameras are reported to be linked to central operations rooms.
Inspections: Authorities are increasing checks on vehicles, technical standards, drivers and permits.
Important: The latest report does not specify a rollout date, camera specifications, recording period specifically for taxis, or whether every existing taxi must be retrofitted immediately. Those details should not be assumed until officially announced.
For anyone regularly using Doha taxis or Qatar limousine services, this is a significant change because the journey itself could soon be subject to an official security recording system.
Qatar Airways has revealed how it managed one of its biggest operational challenges of 2026, supporting around 16,400 stranded passengers after the complete closure of regional airspace on February 28.
The airline’s Chief Operating Officer, Abdullah Ali, said experience gained from previous crises, including the COVID-19 pandemic and the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, helped Qatar Airways activate a detailed emergency plan and move quickly when flights were suddenly disrupted.
What happened during the February 28 airspace closure?
On February 28, Qatar’s Civil Aviation Authority temporarily suspended air traffic in Qatari airspace as a precautionary safety measure. Qatar Airways subsequently suspended flights to and from Doha.
The disruption left around 8,000 passengers stranded in Doha, while another 8,400 passengers were stranded at airports across Qatar Airways’ international network.
What followed was a huge logistical operation involving hotels, meals, customer support, alternative transport and eventually evacuation and repatriation flights.
16,400 passengers, 61 hotels and 15,600 rooms
One of the biggest challenges was finding somewhere for thousands of passengers to stay while there was no clear timeline for when the airspace would reopen.
Qatar Airways moved stranded passengers in Doha into hotels, covering accommodation and board at the company’s expense.
The airline booked approximately 15,600 hotel rooms across 61 hotels in Doha.
It also deployed Qatar Airways staff to those hotels around the clock to support passengers, coordinate with guests and work on alternative travel arrangements.
For passengers waiting at Hamad International Airport, the airline provided more than 15,000 meals during the disruption.
The pressure was not limited to airports and hotels.
Qatar Airways’ call centres faced more than 70,000 customer interactions every day, more than double normal volumes.
The airline responded by moving additional staff into customer service roles and increasing shift capacity.
According to the COO, the airline was then able to rebook around 8,000 passengers per day.
That gives a sense of how quickly the airline had to scale its operations during the crisis.
Qatar Airways used planes, buses and alternative routes
With normal flight operations unavailable, Qatar Airways had to look beyond traditional air travel.
The airline worked with Mowasalat and Saudia to arrange special flights from Jeddah to Dammam, followed by chartered bus journeys across the border to reunite passengers with their families in Doha.
Other passengers were moved by land from Doha towards Riyadh, while an exceptional Riyadh to Frankfurt flight helped travellers whose journeys had originated in Qatar.
The response effectively turned into a multi-modal transport operation, combining flights, buses, hotels and ground teams.
What happened to passengers stranded overseas?
The 8,400 passengers stranded outside Qatar presented another major challenge.
Qatar Airways worked with the Qatar Ministry of Interior, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and international embassies to coordinate solutions.
From March 7, just one week after the February 28 airspace closure, Qatar Airways began targeted evacuation and repatriation flights in coordination with diplomatic missions.
The objective was straightforward: get stranded passengers safely back to their destinations.
Qatar Airways says World Cup experience helped
According to Abdullah Ali, the airline’s crisis response was built on lessons learned from previous major events.
That included the COVID-19 pandemic and the experience of operating during the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.
Those experiences helped Qatar Airways prepare for a situation where thousands of passengers suddenly needed accommodation, food, alternative transportation and rebooking at the same time.
The airline also activated its Integrated Operations Center and Customer Support and Disruption Management Center at Hamad International Airport as part of the emergency response.
Safety came first
Despite the enormous logistical pressure, Qatar Airways said passenger and crew safety remained the central priority.
The airline’s original February 28 response also confirmed that flights to and from Doha were suspended because of the airspace closure and that additional ground staff had been deployed to support affected passengers.
The Qatar Civil Aviation Authority said the airspace suspension was a precautionary measure focused on maintaining the highest levels of safety and security for flights.
What this means for Qatar Airways passengers
The February crisis showed how quickly a major airspace disruption can affect an international airline.
For Qatar Airways passengers, the response went far beyond simply cancelling or delaying flights. The airline had to find hotel rooms, provide meals, manage tens of thousands of customer interactions, arrange alternative routes and coordinate with governments and embassies.
The scale of the operation is reflected in the numbers:
16,400 passengers supported. 15,600 hotel rooms booked. 61 hotels used in Doha. 15,000+ meals provided. 70,000+ daily customer interactions. 8,000 passengers rebooked per day.
Qatar Airways says it continues to refine its operational systems so it can respond more effectively to future disruptions while keeping passenger safety and service quality at the centre of its plans.
Qatar has introduced an updated rule governing how employers must transfer workers’ wages, with salaries required to be deposited through the Wage Protection System within seven days of the due date. The change was published in Official Gazette Issue No. 15 of 2026 through Minister of Labour Decision No. 50 of 2026.
The decision amends provisions of the existing regulations governing Qatar’s Wage Protection System, or WPS, and applies to workers covered by the Labour Law.
What is Qatar’s new 7-day salary rule?
Under the amended provision, employers must transfer wages for workers paid on an annual or monthly basis into their bank accounts at financial institutions in Qatar within seven days from the wage due date.
The transfer must be made through the Wage Protection System (WPS).
For monthly and annual wage workers, the salary becomes due on the first day of each calendar month.
For other workers covered by the provision, wages are due on the first day of every two weeks.
Qatar salary payment rule at a glance
Rule
What it means
Salary system
Wage Protection System (WPS)
Monthly/annual workers
Wages due on the first day of each calendar month
Payment deadline
Within 7 days of the due date
Other workers
Wages due on the first day of every two weeks
Payment method
Bank account through WPS
Decision
Minister of Labour Decision No. 50 of 2026
Published in
Official Gazette Issue No. 15 of 2026
Does this mean salaries can be delayed for 7 days?
Not exactly.
The seven-day period is the legal window specified for transferring wages from the due date. For monthly workers, the wage is due on the first day of the calendar month, and the employer must transfer it within seven days through WPS.
So workers should not interpret the rule as saying that employers have a general right to hold salaries for seven days beyond every expected payday.
Why the Wage Protection System matters
Qatar’s Wage Protection System is the mechanism used to monitor the payment of workers’ wages through financial institutions.
The system is designed to make salary payments more transparent and help ensure workers receive their wages through the banking system. Qatar introduced WPS in 2015 as part of wider labour reforms.
The latest decision updates the regulations governing how wages are transferred under this system.
When does the new Qatar salary rule take effect?
The decision was published in Official Gazette Issue No. 15 of 2026 on September 8, 2026.
The decision states that it comes into force on the day following its publication in the Official Gazette.
All relevant authorities are required to implement the decision within their respective areas of responsibility.
What workers in Qatar should know
If you are employed under Qatar’s Labour Law, the key point is simple:
Your wages are required to be transferred through WPS within seven days of the applicable due date.
For monthly and annual wage workers, the due date is the first day of the month.
For other workers, wages are due on the first day of every two weeks.
Workers who experience salary payment problems should keep records of their employment contract, expected salary date, bank statements and payment history.
What employers in Qatar need to do
Employers covered by the decision need to ensure that their payroll systems comply with the updated WPS requirements.
That means wages must be transferred to workers’ bank accounts through the approved system within the specified seven-day period.
The decision places implementation responsibility on the relevant authorities within their respective jurisdictions.
Qatar salary rule 2026 explained
The biggest takeaway is that Qatar’s updated WPS rule sets a clear seven-day window for wage transfers after the applicable due date.
For monthly and annual workers, wages are due on the first day of the month.
For other workers covered by the provision, wages are due every two weeks.
The change is part of Qatar’s continuing development of labour regulations and wage protection mechanisms. Earlier in 2026, Qatar also introduced wider amendments to its Labour Law aimed at improving labour-market regulation and compliance.
The simple version
Qatar workers: Your wages must be transferred through WPS within seven days of the due date.
Monthly workers: Salary is due on the first day of each month.
Other workers: Salary is due on the first day of every two weeks.
Employers: Wage transfers must comply with the updated WPS rules.
Effective date: The decision takes effect the day after publication in the Official Gazette.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the new salary rule in Qatar?
Qatar’s updated rule requires employers to transfer wages through the Wage Protection System within seven days of the wage due date.
When is salary due in Qatar?
For workers paid monthly or annually, wages are due on the first day of each calendar month. Other workers covered by the provision have wages due on the first day of every two weeks.
What is WPS in Qatar?
WPS stands for Wage Protection System. It is the system through which covered employers transfer workers’ wages to their bank accounts.
Can an employer delay salary for seven days?
The decision provides a seven-day period from the due date for transferring wages. It should not be interpreted as a blanket permission for employers to arbitrarily delay salaries.
When does Qatar’s new wage rule take effect?
The decision takes effect the day after its publication in the Official Gazette.
A fire broke out on a marine vessel at Al Wakra Port, with Qatar Civil Defence successfully bringing the blaze under control. No injuries were reported, according to the Ministry of Interior.
The incident was reported by Qatar’s Ministry of Interior on September 9, 2026, with Civil Defence teams responding to the fire at the port.
The Civil Defence brings under control a fire on a marine vessel at Al Wakra Port, with no injuries reported. #MOIQatar
The fire broke out on a marine vessel at Al Wakra Port before Civil Defence teams intervened and contained it.
The Ministry of Interior confirmed that the fire was brought under control and that no injuries were reported.
No further details about the cause of the fire, the vessel involved or the extent of any damage were provided in the initial announcement.
No injuries reported
The key update for the public is that there were no reported injuries following the Al Wakra Port vessel fire.
Civil Defence successfully controlled the incident, according to the Ministry of Interior.
Authorities have not released additional information on whether the fire affected port operations.
Qatar Civil Defence responds quickly
The incident highlights the role of Qatar Civil Defence in responding to fire emergencies and protecting people and property.
The latest response comes shortly after Qatar and Saudi Arabia held their first meeting to activate a civil defence cooperation agreement, aimed at strengthening readiness, exchanging expertise and improving emergency response mechanisms.
For now, the Ministry’s latest confirmation is clear: the marine vessel fire at Al Wakra Port has been brought under control and no injuries have been reported.
Qatar and Spain are stepping up security cooperation ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2030, with the two countries signing a Letter of Intent covering security arrangements for the tournament. The agreement was signed in Madrid during a meeting between Qatar’s Minister of Interior Sheikh Khalifa bin Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani and Spain’s Minister of Interior Fernando Grande-Marlaska Gómez.
The move builds on Qatar’s experience in major international sports security, particularly following its hosting of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.
The Letter of Intent establishes a framework for cooperation between the Qatar Ministry of Interior and Spain’s Ministry of Interior regarding security arrangements for the FIFA World Cup 2030.
The agreement comes as Spain, together with Portugal and Morocco, prepares to co-host the 2030 FIFA World Cup.
Both sides also discussed ways to strengthen broader bilateral cooperation, particularly in the security field, during the meeting in Madrid.
What does the Qatar-Spain security agreement mean?
The announcement does not provide detailed operational plans for the 2030 tournament.
However, the agreement creates a basis for security cooperation between the two interior ministries as Spain prepares for one of the world’s biggest sporting events.
Qatar brings significant experience from its own World Cup preparations and tournament security operations. Qatar has also previously signed security cooperation arrangements with other countries to share expertise and best practices ahead of major football tournaments.
Qatar’s FIFA World Cup security experience
Qatar’s role in supporting international football security has continued beyond the 2022 World Cup.
The country’s security authorities have worked with international partners on training, expertise and major-event security, making its experience particularly relevant as preparations for FIFA World Cup 2030 move forward.
The latest Qatar-Spain agreement adds another international security partnership to those efforts.
Who will host the FIFA World Cup 2030?
The 2030 FIFA World Cup will be hosted by Spain, Portugal and Morocco, with selected centenary celebration matches also taking place in South America.
For Spain, Portugal and Morocco, preparations will involve coordination across multiple countries and cities, including transport, stadiums, crowd management and security.
The Qatar-Spain agreement specifically focuses on security arrangements, according to the Letter of Intent.
Qatar and Spain security cooperation
The latest agreement follows a period of closer security discussions between Qatar and Spain.
In August, Qatar’s Minister of Interior also met Spain’s ambassador to Qatar, with both sides reviewing bilateral cooperation, particularly in the security field.
The new World Cup agreement now takes that cooperation into a major international sporting event.
Qatar-Spain FIFA World Cup 2030 deal at a glance
Detail
Information
Countries
Qatar and Spain
Event
FIFA World Cup 2030
Agreement
Letter of Intent
Focus
Security arrangements
Qatari official
Sheikh Khalifa bin Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani
Spanish official
Fernando Grande-Marlaska Gómez
Location
Madrid, Spain
Qatar’s relevant experience
FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022
The agreement is an important step in Qatar-Spain security cooperation, while giving Spain another international partner as preparations for the 2030 FIFA World Cup continue.
Source: Qatar News Agency and Qatar Ministry of Interior.
Qatar Airways Issues Urgent Warning Over Jakarta Flights
Qatar Airways has cancelled flights between Doha and Jakarta on September 7, 2026, after volcanic ash affected operations at Jakarta’s Soekarno-Hatta International Airport. Passengers travelling between Qatar and Indonesia are being urged to check their latest flight status before heading to the airport.
The disruption comes as Mount Anak Krakatau erupted in Indonesia, sending volcanic ash into surrounding airspace and affecting airport operations across parts of western Indonesia.
As a result of volcanic ash affecting airport operations at Soekarno-Hatta International Airport (CGK), Qatar Airways has cancelled flights QR954, QR955, QR956 and QR957 on 7 September, between Doha and Jakarta.
Passengers are advised to check the latest flight status before…
Qatar Airways Jakarta flights cancelled on September 7
Qatar Airways confirmed that its Doha-Jakarta flights QR954 and QR955 are affected on September 7.
The airline said the cancellations are linked to volcanic activity and resulting operational restrictions at Soekarno-Hatta International Airport (CGK).
Passengers should check the latest flight information before travelling, as flight schedules can change depending on airport conditions and volcanic ash movement.
Qatar Airways flights affected
Flight
Route
Date
Status
QR954
Doha to Jakarta
September 7
Cancelled
QR955
Jakarta to Doha
September 7
Cancelled
Qatar Airways had also reported disruptions to several Jakarta flights on September 6, including QR956 and QR957.
Why did Qatar Airways cancel the Jakarta flights?
The cancellations are connected to volcanic ash from Mount Anak Krakatau.
Volcanic ash can create serious risks for aircraft because it can affect engines, visibility, aircraft systems and safe flight operations. Indonesian authorities temporarily suspended airport operations when ash was detected around Soekarno-Hatta.
Indonesia’s Ministry of Transportation said airport closures were being used as a safety measure while authorities monitored the spread of volcanic ash and its impact on aviation.
Mount Anak Krakatau eruption disrupts Jakarta flights
The flight disruption follows renewed activity from Mount Anak Krakatau, the volcano located in the Sunda Strait between Java and Sumatra.
The eruption sent ash into the atmosphere and disrupted air travel around western Indonesia.
Soekarno-Hatta International Airport, which serves Jakarta and is one of Indonesia’s main international gateways, temporarily suspended operations because of the volcanic ash.
The disruption has affected airlines and passengers beyond Qatar Airways, with hundreds of flights impacted across the region. Reuters reported that more than 1,500 flights and around 170,000 passengers were affected by the wider disruption as ash spread across western Indonesia.
Is Jakarta airport closed?
Airport operations have been disrupted because of the volcanic ash, but travellers should not assume that the airport’s status will remain unchanged throughout the day.
Indonesia’s aviation authorities are continuously monitoring ash conditions and deciding whether airports can safely operate.
The Indonesian Ministry of Transportation said safety remains the priority and that airports would not be reopened if volcanic ash conditions continued to pose a risk to aviation.
This means Jakarta flight schedules can change quickly.
What should Qatar Airways passengers do?
If you are booked on a Qatar Airways flight between Doha and Jakarta, do not rely only on the original itinerary.
Before leaving for the airport:
Check your latest Qatar Airways flight status.
Check your email and phone for airline notifications.
Confirm whether your flight has been cancelled, delayed or rescheduled.
If your flight is affected, contact Qatar Airways or your booking provider for the latest instructions.
Do not travel to the airport based solely on an old flight schedule.
Qatar Airways has specifically advised passengers to check the latest flight status before travelling.
What is happening at Soekarno-Hatta Airport?
The airport disruption has created significant knock-on effects for passengers travelling to and from Jakarta.
Indonesian authorities reported that the temporary closure affected hundreds of flights, including international and domestic services. The government has been monitoring volcanic ash distribution and its impact on airport operations.
Other airports in western Indonesia have also experienced temporary closures or operational disruption because of the ash.
Will Qatar Airways flights to Jakarta resume?
At this stage, passengers should not assume a specific resumption time.
The airline’s latest travel alert says some flights may be delayed, rescheduled or cancelled because of volcanic activity and operational restrictions in Jakarta.
The situation depends on volcanic activity, ash concentration, wind conditions and decisions by aviation authorities.
For that reason, the most reliable information for an individual passenger is the latest status of their specific booking.
What happened to Qatar Airways flights on September 6?
Qatar Airways also listed several Jakarta flights as affected on September 6.
The airline’s travel alert identified QR956, QR957, QR958 and QR959 among the impacted flights for September 6, while QR954 and QR955 were listed for September 7.
This shows that the disruption is affecting multiple services rather than a single flight.
Why volcanic ash is a major problem for flights
Volcanic ash is different from ordinary weather disruption.
Fine ash particles can enter aircraft engines and potentially damage components or reduce engine performance. It can also affect visibility and other aircraft systems.
That is why airlines and aviation authorities can cancel or divert flights even when an airport itself appears operational.
In this case, the safety concern comes from volcanic ash associated with Mount Anak Krakatau, which has spread across areas of western Indonesia.
Qatar Airways Jakarta flight update
For travellers searching for the latest Qatar Airways Jakarta flight update, the key information is:
Route: Doha to Jakarta and Jakarta to Doha Airport: Soekarno-Hatta International Airport, CGK Date affected: September 7, 2026 Cancelled flights: QR954 and QR955 Reason: Volcanic ash and operational restrictions linked to volcanic activity Airline advice: Check flight status before travelling
Qatar Airways says passenger and crew safety remains its highest priority.
What passengers should watch next
The biggest factor now is the movement of volcanic ash and whether aviation authorities determine that conditions are safe for flights.
Passengers should keep checking for updates rather than assuming that a cancelled flight will automatically operate later.
If you have a Doha-Jakarta flight, check the airline’s official travel alerts and your booking before making your way to Hamad International Airport.
For the latest Qatar travel updates, flight disruptions and airport news, keep checking People & Qatar.
Qatar Airways Jakarta Flight FAQ
Are Qatar Airways flights from Doha to Jakarta cancelled?
QR954 and QR955 are cancelled for September 7, 2026, according to Qatar Airways’ latest travel alert. The disruption is linked to volcanic activity and volcanic ash affecting operations at Soekarno-Hatta International Airport.
Why are Qatar Airways Jakarta flights cancelled?
Flights have been cancelled because volcanic ash from Mount Anak Krakatau is affecting airport operations and aviation conditions around Jakarta.
Is Qatar Airways flying to Jakarta?
Some Jakarta services are being disrupted. Qatar Airways says flights may be delayed, rescheduled or cancelled depending on operational conditions.
What is flight QR954?
QR954 is Qatar Airways’ Doha to Jakarta service. The September 7 service has been cancelled due to the Jakarta volcanic ash disruption.
What is flight QR955?
QR955 is Qatar Airways’ Jakarta to Doha service. The September 7 service has also been cancelled.
Should I still go to Hamad International Airport?
If your Qatar Airways flight is affected, check the latest flight status and airline notification before travelling to the airport. Qatar Airways specifically advises passengers to check their flight status before travelling.
Is Jakarta airport affected by the volcano?
Yes. Soekarno-Hatta International Airport has experienced operational disruption because of volcanic ash from Mount Anak Krakatau.
Doha Festival City Wins ‘Best Mall’ Award for its Hala Summer 2026 Campaign
Doha Festival City, Qatar’s leading retail and lifestyle destination, has been crowned ‘Best Mall’ as part of Visit Qatar’s Hala Summer Shopping Festival Awards. The accolade recognises the mall’s exceptional contribution to the national initiative, driven by its outstanding visitor engagement, guest turnout, and innovative marketing.
Iyad Hudaib (right) Senior Marketing Manager at Doha Festival City, and Saifali Althaf (left), Marketing Coordinator at Doha Festival City, accept the ‘Best Mall’ award from Jazmine Sheikh (center), Festivals and Events Delivery Project Head at Qatar Tourism, during a special ceremony celebrating the success of the Hala Summer Shopping Festival.
This recognition reflects Doha Festival City’s enduring partnership with Visit Qatar and its ongoing commitment to delivering unparalleled, world-class experiences that support the country’s tourism and retail landscape, while contributing to its long-term socioeconomic vision. The mall experienced remarkable footfall throughout the summer season and brought the community together with a curated lineup of immersive family entertainment, including an exclusive Disney’s Moana activity installation, vibrant street parades, a high-stakes Shop & Win campaign, and a rich range of daily shows.
Planning to perform Hajj from Qatar in 2027? The Ministry of Endowments and Islamic Affairs has announced the registration dates, eligibility requirements and key steps applicants need to know before applying.
Qatar Hajj 2027 registration will open at midnight on September 20, 2026, and remain open until October 20, 2026, through the official Hajj portal. Qatar has been allocated a quota of 4,400 pilgrims for the upcoming Hajj season.
The Ministry is encouraging people who plan to perform Hajj to prepare early, particularly because a medical fitness certificate is required as part of the application process.
Here is everything you need to know about Hajj 2027 registration in Qatar, including dates, eligibility for Qataris and residents, companion rules, medical requirements, payment, Hajj campaigns and when applicants can expect to hear about their selection.
Qatar Hajj 2027 registration dates
The registration window for Hajj 1448 AH, corresponding to Hajj 2027, is:
Important detail
Date / Information
Registration opens
September 20, 2026
Opening time
12:00 midnight
Registration closes
October 20, 2026
Hajj season
1448 AH / 2027
Qatar’s Hajj quota
4,400 pilgrims
Application website
Official Qatar Hajj portal
Selection process
Electronic screening after registration closes
Expected notifications
From the end of October
The Ministry says early registration has helped Hajj campaigns complete accommodation, transportation, catering and other arrangements well ahead of the pilgrimage season.
The requirements are different for Qatari citizens and Qatar residents and GCC citizens.
Requirements for Qatari citizens
Qatari citizens applying for Hajj 2027 must:
Be 18 years old or above
Meet the required health and fitness standards
Obtain the required medical fitness certificate
Add up to three companions to the application
Include companions in the main application from the beginning
The Ministry has stressed the importance of adding companions to the original application rather than submitting separate applications for them.
Requirements for Qatar residents and GCC citizens
For non-Qatari residents and GCC citizens living in Qatar, the requirements are stricter.
Applicants must:
Be 45 years old or above
Have not performed Hajj previously
Have lived continuously in Qatar for at least 15 years
Meet the required health and fitness standards
Have the required medical fitness certificate
Add one companion only
These conditions are particularly important for long-term Qatar residents planning their first Hajj.
Hajj 2027 medical fitness certificate is mandatory
One of the most important things applicants should arrange before completing the process is the Hajj medical fitness certificate.
The certificate confirms that the applicant meets the health requirements established for Hajj.
The Primary Health Care Corporation, or PHCC, has already made the medical fitness certificate available through its health centres across Qatar. Applicants can visit a PHCC Family Medicine Clinic without a prior appointment, and the assessment is recorded electronically.
The service is available to both Qatari citizens and residents, with the certificate issued in electronic and paper formats. PHCC said the service is free for citizens and residents, although residents with expired health cards may be charged a fee.
This means people interested in Hajj 2027 from Qatar do not need to wait until September 20 to start preparing their medical requirements.
Why you should get your medical certificate early
The medical certificate is not simply an optional document to keep ready later.
It is an essential acceptance requirement for the Hajj registration process.
Getting the medical assessment completed early can help applicants avoid leaving an important requirement until the registration deadline.
PHCC has said the health assessment is designed to ensure prospective pilgrims are medically fit to perform the Hajj rituals safely and reduce potential health risks during the journey.
How to register for Hajj 2027 in Qatar
The registration process will be completed electronically through the official Qatar Hajj website.
Applicants should:
Visit the official Qatar Hajj portal.
Complete the Hajj 2027 registration application.
Make sure all personal information is correct.
Add eligible companions to the main application.
Ensure the required medical fitness information is available electronically.
Submit the application before October 20, 2026.
Wait for the electronic screening and selection process.
If accepted, follow the instructions to contract with an approved Hajj campaign.
The Ministry has also upgraded the electronic system to make registration, campaign contracting and payment easier for applicants.
Do not register your companion separately
This is one of the details applicants should pay close attention to.
If you are applying with a spouse, parent, child or another eligible companion, the Ministry recommends adding them to the same main application from the beginning.
For Qatari applicants, up to three companions can be added.
For residents and GCC citizens who meet the eligibility conditions, one companion can be added.
Failing to include a companion in the original application could create complications later in the selection process.
How many Hajj pilgrims can travel from Qatar in 2027?
Qatar’s approved Hajj quota for 1448 AH is 4,400 pilgrims.
This is the same quota reported for Qatar’s 1447 AH Hajj season, when 4,400 pilgrims travelled from Qatar under the approved allocation.
Because the number of applicants can exceed the available quota, registration does not automatically mean that every applicant will be accepted.
The applications will go through an electronic screening and selection process after registration closes.
When will Hajj 2027 applicants know if they are accepted?
According to the Ministry’s announcement, electronic screening will begin after the registration period ends.
Acceptance notifications are expected to be sent by SMS from the end of October 2026 to the mobile numbers registered in the application.
Applicants should therefore make sure their contact details are correct and keep an eye on their registered phone number after the registration period.
What happens after you are selected?
Being selected is not the final step.
Successful applicants will then be able to complete the contracting process with one of the licensed and approved Hajj campaigns available through the official Hajj website.
The Ministry has been working on making the process more digital, including online contracting and electronic payments.
The cost of Hajj is not a single fixed amount for everyone.
Prices vary depending on the campaign and the level of services included, such as:
Accommodation
Transportation
Meals
Other support services
The Ministry has said the amount applicants pay through the electronic system when completing the contracting process will be announced later. Importantly, this payment is a down payment toward the final Hajj package cost, not a separate registration fee.
When will Qatar Hajj campaign prices be announced?
Applicants should not assume that the Hajj registration payment is the full cost of the pilgrimage.
The final price will depend on the approved Hajj campaign and package selected.
Different campaigns can offer different accommodation, transportation, catering and support arrangements, so applicants should compare the available packages carefully once the approved campaigns and prices are published.
The Ministry is expected to make the licensed campaigns available through the official Hajj website as the process moves forward.
Why Qatar is opening Hajj registration early
The early registration system is designed to give both authorities and Hajj campaigns more time to prepare.
Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah sets an early preparation timetable covering important arrangements such as country quotas, accommodation contracts, catering, transportation and electronic Hajj procedures.
Starting Qatar’s registration process early allows approved campaigns to organise these services in advance rather than trying to complete everything close to the pilgrimage season.
For pilgrims, this can mean a more organised process from registration to travel.
What should Hajj applicants in Qatar do now?
If you are seriously planning Hajj 2027, there are a few things worth doing before registration opens.
1. Check your eligibility
First, make sure you meet the age and previous-Hajj requirements.
Qatari citizens must be at least 18.
Residents and GCC citizens must be at least 45, must not have performed Hajj previously and must have lived continuously in Qatar for at least 15 years.
2. Complete your medical check
Do not leave the medical fitness certificate until the last minute.
PHCC has already opened access to the required assessment at its health centres.
3. Decide who is travelling with you
If you plan to travel with family, make sure eligible companions are included in the main application.
4. Use only the official Hajj website
Be careful with unofficial websites, social media posts or people claiming to guarantee Hajj selection.
Registration should be completed through the official Qatar Hajj portal.
5. Keep your phone number active
Selection notifications will be sent by SMS, so the number linked to your application matters.
Hajj 2027 Qatar registration at a glance
Registration: September 20 to October 20, 2026
Opening: Midnight on September 20
Hajj season: 1448 AH / 2027
Qatar quota: 4,400 pilgrims
Qatari citizen age: 18+
Residents and GCC citizens: 45+
Previous Hajj: Not permitted for eligible resident/GCC applicants
Continuous Qatar residence: At least 15 years for resident/GCC applicants
Qatari companions: Up to 3
Resident/GCC companions: 1
Medical fitness certificate: Mandatory
Selection: Electronic screening after registration closes
Expected acceptance SMS: From the end of October
Registration website: Official Qatar Hajj portal
Hajj 2027 from Qatar: The most important thing to remember
If you are hoping to perform Hajj 2027 from Qatar, the date to remember is September 20, 2026.
Registration will remain open for one month, until October 20, but applicants should not wait until the final days to prepare.
The medical fitness certificate, eligibility requirements and companion information should all be checked in advance.
With Qatar’s Hajj quota set at 4,400 pilgrims, preparation matters. The registration process is online, selection will take place electronically after the deadline, and successful applicants are expected to receive SMS notifications from the end of October.
For anyone dreaming of making the journey to Makkah in 2027, the process is now officially getting underway.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does Hajj 2027 registration open in Qatar?
Qatar Hajj 2027 registration opens at midnight on September 20, 2026. Applications will remain open until October 20, 2026.
Where can I register for Hajj 2027 in Qatar?
Registration will be completed through the official Qatar Hajj website.
Qatar’s Hajj quota for the 1448 AH season is 4,400 pilgrims.
What is the minimum age for Hajj registration in Qatar?
Qatari citizens must be 18 or older. Residents and GCC citizens applying under the announced Qatar conditions must be 45 or older.
Can Qatar residents apply for Hajj 2027?
Yes, eligible Qatar residents can apply. They must be at least 45, must not have previously performed Hajj and must have continuously lived in Qatar for at least 15 years.
Is a medical fitness certificate required for Hajj 2027?
Yes. A medical fitness certificate is a mandatory requirement, and PHCC health centres across Qatar are providing the assessment.
How many companions can I add?
Qatari citizens can add up to three companions. Eligible residents and GCC citizens can add one companion.
When will Hajj 2027 applicants know if they are selected?
Electronic screening will begin after registration closes, with acceptance notifications expected by SMS from the end of October 2026.
How much will Hajj 2027 cost from Qatar?
The final Hajj cost has not yet been announced. Prices will vary between approved Hajj campaigns depending on accommodation, transportation, meals and other services.
Five sea turtles have been found dead in the open sea off the coast of Al Wakrah, prompting action from Qatar’s Ministry of Environment and Climate Change. The incident was reported on September 5, 2026, during routine marine monitoring and patrol operations carried out by the Ministry’s Marine Protection Department.
The Ministry said its Al Wakrah Marine Unit has begun handling the case and taking the necessary measures.
رصدت وزارة البيئة والتغير المناخي، ممثلةً بإدارة الحماية البحرية، نفوق خمس سلاحف بحرية في عرض البحر قبالة منطقة الوكرة، وذلك خلال أعمال الرصد والدوريات البحرية.
وباشرت وحدة الوكرة البحرية التعامل مع الحالة واتخاذ الإجراءات اللازمة، فيما تواصل الوزارة جهودها لحماية الكائنات… pic.twitter.com/Cb8xAxM36Z
According to the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, marine patrol teams detected five dead sea turtles in open waters off Al Wakrah while monitoring Qatar’s marine environment.
The Ministry has not announced a cause of death in its statement. At this stage, there is also no official indication that the turtles died because of pollution, fishing activity, boat strikes or another specific cause.
That distinction is important because the discovery alone does not establish what caused the deaths.
Qatar investigates five dead sea turtles
The Al Wakrah Marine Unit is now handling the situation and carrying out the required procedures.
The Ministry said its marine monitoring operations are part of wider efforts to protect marine organisms, preserve Qatar’s marine environment and support biodiversity conservation.
The incident comes as Qatar continues to focus on protecting its coastline and marine ecosystems. Qatar’s coastline stretches for more than 560 kilometres, with beaches and coastal habitats supporting a wide range of marine life.
Why sea turtles matter to Qatar’s marine environment
Sea turtles are an important part of marine ecosystems, and Qatar’s coastline is known for turtle activity.
Fuwairit Beach, for example, is a recognised turtle nesting area and is closed during the nesting season to help protect hawksbill turtles.
This makes reports involving sea turtles particularly significant for people interested in Qatar wildlife, marine conservation, environmental protection and biodiversity.
What is the Ministry doing?
The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change said it will continue its field efforts to monitor and protect marine organisms and maintain the health of Qatar’s marine environment.
The latest announcement does not provide details about the species of the five turtles, their condition when discovered, or the eventual findings of the investigation.
People should therefore avoid sharing unverified claims about the cause of death until authorities release further information.
Qatar’s wider marine conservation efforts
The Al Wakrah incident comes amid broader environmental initiatives across Qatar.
Recent conservation efforts have included marine patrols, action against illegal fishing and community beach-cleaning campaigns. Qatar has also been researching ways to strengthen marine habitats and biodiversity in its offshore waters.
For residents who regularly visit Qatar’s beaches, the incident is another reminder that the country’s coastline is more than a recreational space. It is also a habitat for marine wildlife.
If your Qatar on-arrival visa is about to expire, there is an easier option than visiting a passport office or service centre. The Ministry of Interior (MOI) Qatar provides an online visa extension service that allows eligible visitors to check and extend their visa electronically.
The official MOI system includes several types of on-arrival visas, including visas for tourists and GCC residents. Eligibility, validity and extension limits depend on the visa category.
You can renew instant (on-arrival) visas online via the Ministry of Interior website without visiting the General Directorate of Passports or Service Centers. It’s our pleasure to serve you. #MOIQatarpic.twitter.com/6bt5Jsmu5x
According to the MOI Qatar instructions, the process is:
1. Visit the MOI Qatar website Go to the Ministry of Interior website and select “Inquiries.”
2. Select “Visa Services” Open the visa-related services section.
3. Select “Visa Extension” Choose the visa extension option.
4. Select “Inquiry and Extension” Enter your visa details. The system allows an inquiry using the ID number of the sponsor, representative or authorised person, along with the application date.
5. Check health insurance requirements Make sure the required visitor health insurance conditions have been met. The system provides access to approved insurance companies.
6. Choose the extension and pay Select the available extension period, pay the applicable fee online and complete the process.
Can You Extend a Qatar Visa Without a Sponsor?
For the service shown by the Ministry of Interior, eligible applicants can use the electronic Visa Extension process without needing to visit a service centre.
However, “no sponsor required” does not mean every Qatar visa can be extended without restrictions. Your eligibility depends on your specific visa type and MOI rules.
For example, MOI currently states that the GCC Resident on-arrival visa is issued for 30 days and can be extended, subject to its conditions.
Qatar Visa Extension Fees
The fee is not necessarily the same for every visa category. For example, MOI lists a QR100 extension fee per month for the GCC Resident on-arrival visa.
So, check the amount displayed by the official MOI system for your particular visa before making payment.
Important: Check Your Visa Before It Expires
Do not wait until the last minute. Qatar immigration rules can vary by visa category, and overstaying can result in penalties. MOI currently lists a QR200-per-day fine for certain on-arrival visa violations.
For the latest rules, always verify your status through the official MOI Qatar website.
Quick Answer
Can I extend my Qatar on-arrival visa online? Yes, eligible visa holders can use the MOI Qatar electronic visa extension service.
Do I need to visit a service centre? The online process is designed to allow eligible applicants to complete the extension electronically.
Do I need a sponsor? The service highlighted by MOI is presented as a no-sponsor-required visa extension service, but eligibility depends on your visa category.
Do I need health insurance? Health insurance requirements apply to relevant visitor visa categories. MOI specifically lists health insurance among the requirements for several on-arrival visa categories.
Where do I apply? Through the official MOI Qatar website.
