The authorisation system enables residents to invite family and relatives from around the world to visit Qatar during the  ‘Summer in Qatar’ programme and obtain a free visa upon arrival after applying through the online portal: http://www.qatarvisaservices.com.

Online authorisation system streamlines application process with a 24-hour turnaround time.

Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, Akbar Al Baker, said: “The new electronic visitor authorisation system helps solidify Qatar’s ranking as the most open country in the region in terms of visa facilitation. The implementation of this system is a significant achievement for Qatar, as it streamlines the application process, enabling visitors of all nationalities to apply to enter our country and receive a free visa upon arrival. We are proud to offer a warm Qatari welcome to visitors from around the world, and look forward to offering them a taste of our genuine Arabian hospitality.”

“This important initiative developed by the Ministry of Interior of the State of Qatar and Qatar National Tourism Council will enable us to welcome even more visitors, from even more countries, to experience the many exciting attractions that await them during the ‘Summer in Qatar’ programme, Qatar continues to soar high in the sky where borders and boundaries do not exist, only horizons. We are overjoyed to continue bringing people together, one of our core values.”

The UN World Tourism Organization recently ranked Qatar as the ‘Most Open Destination in the Middle East’ and the eighth most open destination worldwide in terms of visa facilitation. The new facilitation during the ‘Summer in Qatar’ programme will further enhance Qatar’s openness, and enrich travellers ‘experiences.

Qatar Airways recently partnered with QNTC to offer passengers up to 25 percent discount on airfares for all flights to Doha as a final destination from more than 160 destinations worldwide on bookings up to 15 August, enabling customers to enjoy fun-filled ‘Summer in Qatar’ activities. In addition, passengers already booked on Qatar Airways flights can also take advantage of a unique stopover package designed to give travellers transiting through Qatar the opportunity to discover Doha with amazing luxury hotel stays and complimentary transit visas.

This year’s ‘Summer in Qatar’ programme introduces a wide range of exciting indoor activities and outdoor experiences, fun for family and friends.

Entertainment programmes feature regional and international artists, edutainment, sports camps and special promotions on inbound travel, hospitality and shopping.

Nine malls are participating in the festivities, offering retail savings of up to 70 percent, and a chance to win up to $2m in prizes, including the grand prize of a McLaren 570S.

Qatar Museums is offering authentic experiences, enabling visitors to immerse themselves in Qatar’s rich heritage and cultural scene. Souq Waqif and Katara Cultural Village will bring vibrancy to the summer with family fun and entertainment shows during Eid Al-Adha.

‘Summer in Qatar’ also features international and Arab artists as well as a number of Bollywood singers performing at the Bollywood Musical Festival as well as the glittering South Indian International Movie Awards (SIIMA). Comedy fans can anticipate the return of the Doha Comedy Festival, while the little ones will enjoy numerous stage shows including ‘Hello Kitty’, ‘Aladdin’, ‘The Little Mermaid’ and ‘The Smurfs’