Qatar extends tourist visas free of charge due to airspace closure: details

Due to the closure of airspace, the Qatari authorities have decided to automatically extend visas for foreign citizens who are unable to leave the country. Find out who is eligible for an extension, what the terms are, and what to do if your visa has expired

An insurance policy is a guarantee of your safety and peace of mind while traveling outside Ukraine

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The Qatari authorities have decided to support foreign citizens who are stranded in the country due to force majeure circumstances. This is due to restrictions on air travel following the closure of airspace. This was reported by Euronews.

Automatic visa extension in Qatar

The country's Ministry of Interior has announced a free extension of entry visas:

All visa categories are automatically extended

The extension period is 1 month

An additional extension is possible depending on the situation

This decision avoids legal problems for travelers who cannot leave the country due to flight restrictions.

At the same time, it is important to note that if the visa expired before February 28, 2026 (the date of the escalation), a fine will have to be paid for the overstay.

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What is known about the closure of airspace?

According to aviation authorities, the country's airspace was closed on February 28 after lunch. This led to massive cancellations and changes in flight schedules.

The national carrier Qatar Airways regularly updates information on the situation. Passengers who were scheduled to depart between February 28 and March 10, 2026, can:

postpone their trip for up to 14 days

request a full refund

Changes can be made via the airline's website or mobile app. Only passengers with flights in the next 48 hours are advised to contact the call center.

Similar measures in Thailand

Similar steps have been taken in Thailand. Due to the mass cancellation of flights to the Middle East, local authorities are also extending tourist visas for foreigners.

Dozens of flights, including to Bangkok and Phuket, have been canceled by the following airlines:

Air Arabia

Emirates

Etihad Airways

In addition, hotels have been instructed to offer discounts to tourists who find themselves in a difficult situation due to flight delays or cancellations.

The situation remains dynamic, so travelers are advised to regularly check for updates from airlines and official authorities in order to respond to changes in a timely manner.

In conditions of armed conflict and mass unrest, health risks increase many times over. We remind you that having a reliable insurance policy is not a formality, but your financial security in an emergency.

You can purchase medical insurance covering a wide range of risks online at the Visit Ukraine portal. This will provide you with access to qualified assistance and support 24/7, which is especially critical when public transport is suspended and roads are blocked.

Reminder! The escalation in the Middle East has caused massive disruptions in global aviation: thousands of flights have been canceled, key hubs in the region have been closed, and hundreds of thousands of passengers are stranded. The consequences are already being felt far beyond the region: routes are changing, flights are being extended, and governments are preparing to evacuate their citizens. Learn more about which airports and airlines have been most affected and what travelers should do now.

Photo: qatarairways.com

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