While there are 90 shuttle flights bringing in fans from across the GCC daily, plenty of people will be using the World Cup as an excuse for a road trip.
But if you’re planning on driving to Qatar for the tournament, there are new rules you will need to follow.
Luckily for you, we’ve got your covered with our complete guide for driving to Qatar, whether you’re coming from Riyadh, Jeddah, or even further afield.
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Visa requirements for fans driving to Qatar for the World Cup
Between November 1 and December 23, the Hayya Card will act as visitors’ entry permit to Qatar, so fans driving to Qatar won’t need to obtain a separate visa.
Alternatively, if you are a GCC citizen or resident, you will be able to visit Qatar without a Hayya Card (as of Tuesday December 6).
You will, however, need a visa to drive through Saudi Arabia to reach the Abu Samra border.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has said that Hayya Card holders are able to get a free multi-entry visa valid for entry up to 10 days before the tournament kicks off. It allows holders to stay in the Kingdom for up to 60 days.
You can find out more information about how to apply by clicking here.
Car insurance for fans driving to Qatar
Car insurance for your drive through Saudi Arabia can be purchased at the border. Rates vary, but private car insurance for a week starts at SAR138.
Alternatively, you can pay for your car insurance online in advance through manafith.najm.sa.
You will also need car insurance for driving in Qatar, but that will be part of the vehicle entry permit process (more on that in a moment).
Vehicle entry permit
Rules for GCC citizens and residents
From Thursday December 8, citizens and residents coming from GCC countries will be able to drive into Qatar using their own private vehicles.
They will not need to pay a fee, but will need to apply for a permit on the Ministry of Interior website at least 12 hours prior to travel.
Rules for daytrippers driving to Qatar for the World Cup
Many fans will be staying in nearby cities such as Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Riyadh or even Muscat and spending less than 24 hours in Doha.
If you count yourselves among them, you will not be able to drive your own car around the city.
Instead, you will need to leave your car at the Abu Samra border, and ride a bus into the city – more specifically, Doha Central Station (Al Messila) – where you will be able to access public transport.
If you have friends living in Doha, you can also take a bus to Al Qalayel where they will be able to pick you up.
Those driving to Qatar will need to have a Hayya Card and pre-book a car parking lot through the Hayya to Qatar 2022 app, or on the website hayya.qatar2022.qa.
Parking is free for the first 24 hours, but you will have to pay a QR1,000 service fee for the second day. If your car stays for more than 48 hours, it will be towed.
Rules for those with accommodation in Doha
Sorry to disappoint you, folks, but even if you’re staying in Qatar for a few days you might not be able to drive your own car around the city during the World Cup.
You will need to obtain a vehicle entry permit, which will only be granted if you are staying in Qatar for a minimum of five nights, and have a minimum of three people in your vehicle.
If this is the case for you, you will be able to apply for a vehicle entry permit through the official Hayya platform.
Once approved, you will be sent a link to obtain vehicle insurance, and then have to pay QR5,000 to obtain the vehicle entry permit.
