The Ministry of Interior (MoI) has outlined how Qatar’s visa services are becoming faster and paperless, urging residents and companies to use the Metrash app correctly to avoid unnecessary delays. At a webinar Thursday, MoI, in co-operation with the General Directorate of Passports, highlighted the expanding range of visa services available through the Metrash app as part of Qatar’s move towards a fully digital, paperless government. The webinar, organised by MoI’s Public Relations Department, was aimed at individuals, companies, and government relations officers to streamline visa procedures and address common public concerns. Officials stressed that the General Directorate of Passports is a service-oriented department that caters to all segments of society, whether individuals or businesses, and continuously works to streamline procedures in line with Qatar National Vision 2030. During the presentation, speakers explained that Metrash allows users to complete most visa-related transactions electronically, without the need to visit government offices. Services include tracking submitted applications, checking request status, paying visa fees and fines, renewing and extending visas, issuing return visas, cancelling visas, modifying visa data, and replacing or changing visa applicants. Entry visa services for both individuals and companies are also fully accessible through the app, offering a comprehensive digital alternative to traditional paper-based processes. Using the example of a family visit visa, officials demonstrated how services previously handled manually can now be completed online, provided applicants meet the eligibility requirements. These include selecting permitted family relationships, submitting documented proof, ensuring the applicant’s salary is not less than QR5,000, and attaching all required documents clearly. Visitors must also hold compulsory health insurance covering their stay in Qatar. Officials noted that when applications are complete and accurate, approvals are typically processed within three working days. However, many delays occur due to repeated mistakes by applicants, including submitting unclear documents, attaching the wrong passport, or entering incorrect personal information. One recurring issue highlighted was the submission of multiple applications while an existing request is still under review. Officials emphasised that applicants should not submit a new request in such cases; instead, they should return to the same application and upload the corrected or missing documents when prompted. “Many applications remain under review simply because the applicant did not complete the required steps after receiving a notification,” the presenter explained, urging users to carefully follow instructions sent through the app. The webinar also addressed concerns from company representatives and public relations officers who continue to rely on manual submissions. Officials strongly encouraged them to fully utilise the electronic services offered through Metrash and MoI’s website, noting that visiting headquarters unnecessarily wastes time and effort. In cases where users are unfamiliar with digital procedures, officials assured that support is available at the General Directorate of Passports to guide applicants in completing transactions electronically. The session also covered services related to the Qatar Visa Center (QVC), which allows certain procedures — including overseas medical examinations — to be completed before visa issuance. Applicants can add or edit QVC contract details, sign contracts, pay the required fees, and book appointments online through the QVC platform. Concluding the webinar, officials reiterated that the expansion of electronic visa services reflects MoI’s commitment to accessibility, efficiency and user convenience, while reducing paperwork and queues. The MoI encouraged the public to ensure accuracy when submitting applications and to rely on Metrash as the primary channel for visa-related services, reinforcing the message that a smooth process begins with correct and complete information.

The foreign ministers of Qatar, Turkiye, Egypt, Jordan, Indonesia, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and the UAE have welcomed the invitation extended to their leaders by US President Donald Trump to join the Board of Peace. The ministers announced their countries’ shared decision to join the Board of Peace. Each country will sign the joining documents according to their respective relevant legal and other necessary procedures, including Egypt, Pakistan, and the UAE, who have already announced to join. The ministers reiterated their countries’ support for the peace efforts led by President Trump, and reaffirm their countries’ commitment to support the implementation of the mission of the Board of Peace as a transitional administration, as set out in the Comprehensive Plan to End the Gaza Conflict and endorsed by United Nations Security Council Resolution 2803. The resolution is aimed at consolidating a permanent ceasefire, supporting the reconstruction of Gaza, and advancing a just and lasting peace grounded in the Palestinian right to self-determination and statehood in accordance with international law, thereby paving the way for security and stability for all countries and peoples of the region.

A sharp winter chill has swept across Qatar, sending nighttime temperatures in Doha down to 11°C and making it feel as cold as between 5°C and 8°C due to strong winds, prompting many residents to bundle up and take extra precautions even as daytime conditions remain inviting.According to the Department of Meteorology (MET), the cooler spell is expected to continue over the coming days, with generally stable weather and no significant rain forecast.Temperatures Thursday are set to reach 19°C during the day before dropping to 12°C at night. Winds may gust to 30 mph, while the chance of rainfall remains low at 5%. Despite the mild temperatures, MET has flagged high ultraviolet (UV) levels, advising the public to seek shade during midday hours, wear protective clothing, and apply sunscreen.Similar conditions will prevail through the weekend and into early next week. Friday’s forecast mirrors Thursday at 19°C during the day and 13°C at night. Saturday will see a slight warming trend, with temperatures rising to 21°C during the day and 17°C in the evening. Sunday is expected to be the warmest day of the period, with a high of 22°C and a low of 15°C.Temperatures are forecast to dip again on Monday, reaching 20°C during the day and 13°C at night, with stronger winds gusting to 31 mph. On Tuesday, daytime temperatures will climb back to 22°C, with a low of 14°C. Humidity levels are also expected to rise, peaking at around 86% during the day, which may add to the chill in the air despite the sunshine.While the colder nights have caught some off guard, the overall weather remains pleasant by local standards. Many residents are expected to make the most of the winter climate by heading to popular outdoor destinations such as Al Bidda Park, Aspire Zone, the Doha Corniche, and traditional souqs, among other popular outdoor places such as Katara Cultural Village. These areas are likely to see increased activity, particularly in the afternoons and over the weekend, as families and fitness enthusiasts gather for picnics, recreation, and outdoor sports under clear winter skies.