It’s a bit of historical significance as Qatar has been admitted to the United
States visa waiver program.
It is the
first Middle East Gulf country to gain admittance.
The announcement was made by the U.S.
Department of Homeland Security and the Department of State. Qatari citizens
can travel in the United States visa-free for up to 90 days starting no later
than December 1.
"Qatar's fulfillment of the stringent
security requirements to join the Visa Waiver Program will deepen our strategic
partnership and enhance the flow of people and commerce between our two
countries," Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in a statement.
Qatar has distinguished itself in the last
six months to a year in the eyes of the U.S. and the world for trying
to be a mediator in the Middle East war between Israel and Hezbollah.
Qatar issued a "significant
whole-of-government effort to meet all program requirements," according to
the statement. It is the 42nd country to be admitted to the United
States labor program and the first since last year.
Conversely, U.S. citizens can currently
travel to Qatar without a visa and starting on October 1, they will be allowed to
stay for up to 90 days instead of 30. It has made
tourism a priority.
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