It means all UK arrivals in Qatar, including those fully vaccinated against Covid-19, will be required to quarantine on arrival – two days for those who are fully vaccinated and a full week for those that aren’t.
They will also have to present evidence of a negative PCR test for Covid-19 taken in the 72 hours prior to arrival in Qatar. Among those joining the UK on Qatar’s red list are the Russia, Turkey and the UAE.
It comes after Morocco banned direct flights from the UK, Germany and the Netherlands last months due to similar concerns over high rates of Covid infection; a new wave of cases has already triggered fresh lockdowns in Austria and the Netherlands.
The Foreign Office acknowledged the change in an update to its travel advice for Qatar late on Monday (15 November). "A revised traffic light system for entry to Qatar will come into effect from 15 November 2021," said the FCDO. "The UK is listed as a red country."
Besides a negative pre-travel PCR test, anyone travelling to Qatar must book their hotel quarantine package in advance. This also applies to unvaccinated children aged 11 or under. Arrivals maybe be released from quarantine early if their test results come back before the end of their two-day isolation.
The FCDO, though, said transit passengers heading on to another destination can still transfer through the country, albeit while being subject to additional screening.
"You should check with your airline or travel company for the latest information if you are planning to leave the aircraft or transit through Qatar," said the FCDO. "While in transit at Hamad International airport, you will receive regular thermal screening and temperature checks.
"You should contact your tour operator, transport or accommodation provider for information on the impact on any existing travel plans."
The FCDO further warns Qatar is yet to formally confirm acceptance of the NHS Covid Pass. "Although we understand the UK’s proof of Covid recovery and vaccination status is being accepted in practice, Qatar has not yet officially confirmed this," said the FCDO.
"We therefore recommend that you contact your nearest Qatari embassy for advice on entry requirements. Your NHS appointment card from vaccination centres is not designed to be used as proof of vaccination."
