UAE announces multiple-entry tourist visa for Fifa World Cup ticket holders

The UAE has announced a multiple-entry tourist visa for fans attending the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022. The visa will be issued to holders of the 'Hayya' card - a personalised document required by people to attend any of the world cup matches from November 20 to December 18.

Through the special visa, the UAE will be hosting world cup fans, allowing them to enter the emirates multiple times over a period of 90 days.

The Federal Authority For Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) said the visa fee has been reduced to a one-time charge of Dh100. It can be extended for another 90 days, with regular fees applied.

'Hayya' card holders can enter the UAE by applying for the visa starting November 1.

Citizens of visa-exempt countries are excluded from the aforementioned procedures, as they can enter and stay in the UAE according to the existing rules.

How to apply:

Here are the steps listed by the UAE Media Office on how to apply for the new multiple-entry tourist visa:

Room rates soar in UAE

UAE hotel and homestay operators had earlier told Khaleej Times that room rates have gone up by at least 20 per cent because of the demand ahead of the biggest sporting event in the region.

"People are preferring to stay in Dubai and travel to Qatar to watch the games since it is just 30 minutes away by plane,” Saeed Al Zubaidi, CEO of Like Home by Dar Al Zain Vacation Homes Rental, told Khaleej Times.