The United States announced that it would lift visa requirements for citizens of Qatar, making the Gulf nation the first Arab country to join the U.S. Visa Waiver Program.
42nd Member of Program
This significant move marks Qatar as the 42nd member of the program, joining recent additions such as Croatia in 2021 and Israel last year.
Qatar, a gas-rich country and key U.S. ally in the region, met "strict security criteria" to qualify for the program, according to a statement from the Department of Homeland Security, according to Ziare.
The agreement allows Qatari citizens to travel to the United States for business or tourism without a visa for stays of up to 90 days.
In return, Qatar will implement similar measures for American travelers visiting the Gulf state.
Other Arab Countries Could Join
Secretary of State Antony Blinken hailed the decision, stating that it would "deepen our strategic partnership and enhance the flow of people and commerce between our two countries."
Qatar hosts a major U.S. air base and has played a crucial role in past American diplomatic efforts, including helping to evacuate thousands of Afghans when the Taliban regained control of Afghanistan in 2021.
Qatar has also been actively involved in attempts to mediate a ceasefire in Gaza, reflecting its growing diplomatic influence in the region.
The U.S. government indicated that other Arab countries could potentially join the visa waiver program in the future, signaling an openness to further strengthening ties with key partners in the Middle East.
