Learn About Qatar e-Gate For Tourists

By Azure Lee | Update on: Sep 06, 2024

Originating in West Asia and famous as one of the largest transit gateways for foreign travelers in the world, Qatar is home to life's moments of luxury and joy. The hospitality the country offers is world-famous and is one of the main reasons tourists flock to Qatar for vacation.

Although some travelers treasured their passport stamps as keepsakes, they are progressively going out of style. Instead, computerized entry technology and biometrics are being utilized. Not everything is changing, though. In Qatar, e-Gates are currently replacing customs officers.

In this guide, we'll not only unveil the wonders that await you in Qatar but also navigate the effortless process of Qatar e-Gate registration, activation, and utilization at the Hamad International Airport.

Table of Contents

What Is Qatar e-Gate?
- Who Can Use the Qatar e-Gate?
How To Activate e-Gate In Qatar
How To Use Qatar e-Gate At The Hamad International Airport?
The Benefits Of Qatar e-Gate Registration
Tips For e-Gate Card Qatar
- Limitations:
Conclusion

What Is Qatar e-Gate?

Qatar e-Gate is an automated electronic border entry technology that enables tourists to cross borders more quickly and easily. Airports and select ports of entry frequently employ these technologies to efficiently and precisely handle large numbers of passengers.

The e-Gate system opens automatically, enabling the tourist to pass through border control once their identity and documentation have been confirmed. This process is often faster than traditional manual border control methods, as it can reduce the need for physical passport checks and other manual processes.

Who Can Use the Qatar e-Gate?

You can expedite the immigration process for both Arrivals and Departures by using E-Gates if you are a Qatari national, an expatriate resident in Qatar, or from one of the GCC countries (Gulf Cooperation Council). The only documents needed to access the E-Gates system are your passport, your ID card from a GCC country, or your Qatar ID card.

Qatar e-Gate is an automated electronic border entry technology

Qatar e-Gate is an automated electronic border entry technology

How To Activate e-Gate In Qatar

You need to register at the enrollment booths next to the e-Gate kiosks before using the e-Gates at HIA. The Qatar e-Gate registration is fairly simple and takes only a few minutes to complete:

Step 1: Use one of the Enrollment Booth scanners to scan your ID card.
Step 2: The scanning screen should show your photo and fingerprints. If not, you might have to rescan your fingerprints. Follow the guidelines that are given.

Please take note that this is a one-time process. You will not need to visit the Enrollment Booths again after registering your ID card to use the e-Gates.

The next step is to show up at an e-Gate kiosk with your ID card in hand after registering to use the e-Gates:

How To Use Qatar e-Gate At The Hamad International Airport?

Originally, the Qatar e-Gates at Hamad International Airport were a paid convenience for frequent visitors. But as of 2016, anyone who is a legitimate resident of Qatar and has a Qatar ID or passport can use them. There is no requirement for a separate application.

Step 1: The Qatar e-Gate operates based on the information stored in your Qatar ID. This includes your retinal scan and fingerprint. If your fingerprints or eye scans have not yet been stored, you can use a manned kiosk next to the e-gates to record that information. It only takes a few minutes, and then you can use e-gates for the duration of your time in Qatar.
Step 2: Once you enter Immigration, take a slight left to reach the e-Gates, which will scan your passport or Qatar ID. When the glass barrier opens, you will be asked to provide your fingerprints or consent to a retinal scan. The second gate is going to open upon confirmation.

However, because instructions are only available in English and Arabic and not all users are familiar with the e-gate technology, queues have been getting longer. Nevertheless, using an e-gate is typically faster than standing in line at the main immigration hall.

We understand that you do not often go outdoors without the kids, but keep in mind that if you are traveling alone, all it takes to skip the lengthy immigration lines is to pull out your Qatar ID.

Qatar e-Gates at Hamad International Airport were a paid convenience for frequent visitors

Qatar e-Gates at Hamad International Airport were a paid convenience for frequent visitors

The Benefits Of Qatar e-Gate Registration

Registering for e-Gate Qatar application offers several benefits that make traveling through Hamad International Airport a breeze for tourists and residents alike.

Efficient Immigration Process: With Qatar e-Gate registration, travelers can bypass traditional immigration queues at airports in Qatar. This saves time and makes the immigration process more efficient, particularly during peak travel times.
Convenience: Travelers using e-Gate can enjoy the convenience of expedited entry into Qatar without the need to fill out paper forms or interact extensively with immigration officers.
Safety and Security: The e-Gate system employs advanced biometric technology, such as fingerprint and facial recognition, to verify the identity of registered users. This enhances security measures at border checkpoints and helps prevent identity fraud.
Cost Savings: The e-Gate service is provided free of charge, which means you can enjoy the convenience without any additional cost.

Registering for e-Gate Qatar application offers several benefits

Registering for e-Gate Qatar application offers several benefits

Tips For e-Gate Card Qatar

The e-Gates can only be used by adults at least 18 years old. Although this information is anecdotal, we have heard that the program has lately been expanded to 16-year-olds with parental or guardian permission. They may let you pass through the e-Gate and get your baby stamped at the female-only line if you travel alone with a baby.

If the thought of having your kids wait in line at immigration worries you, consider making a booking with Al Maha, which will collect your bags, assist you in clearing immigration, and lead your family into a special lounge.

Metrash2 gives you access to your entry and exit records if you require them.

The e-Port is valid throughout your stay in Qatar. There is no need to renew electronic portal access. On the other hand, you can encounter issues at the e-Gate if you forget to update your Qatar ID when renewing your passport.

Limitations:

Some travelers might not be suitable for Qatar e-Gates. For example, e-Gates could not be available to visitors with disabilities or those who need extra assistance. Certain types of travelers, such as those who are older or traveling with children, may also be prohibited from using some e-Gates.

Conclusion

Overall, Qatar e-Gate can be an efficient and convenient way for visitors to enter or exit Qatar. Before attempting to utilize an e-Gate, travelers should make sure they are eligible and are aware of the restrictions.

As you plan your best things to do in Qatar for a fantastic adventure, it's recommended to apply for a Qatar e-Visa from your country via our website. Embracing the convenience of digital travel authorization allows you to secure your entry to Qatar effortlessly and with confidence. With just a few simple clicks, you'll be one step closer to immersing yourself in the rich culture, breathtaking landscapes, and warm hospitality that Qatar has to offer.

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