The United States has moved to further tighten its visitor visa regime by adding seven more countries to its controversial scheme that requires certain travellers to post bonds of up to USD 15,000 as a condition for obtaining short-term US visas.

The expansion, which took effect at the start of 2026, substantially broadens the scope of the policy and is expected to have a significant impact on travellers from several developing nations.

​Under the latest update, citizens of Bhutan, Botswana, the Central African Republic, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Namibia and Turkmenistan are now subject to the visa bond requirement for specific categories of B1/B2 business and tourist visas.

These countries join Mauritania, Sao Tome and Principe, Tanzania, Gambia, Malawi and Zambia, which had already been brought under the bond framework in earlier phases, bringing the total number of affected states to 13, the vast majority of them in Africa.

Diplomatic sources and regional observers note that the concentration of the measure on smaller and economically vulnerable nations is likely to fuel accusations of unequal treatment and could complicate bilateral ties with Washington.

Several governments are reported to be assessing the implications for their citizens, especially frequent business travellers and those with strong family links in the United States.​

Under the scheme, consular officers may require certain applicants to lodge a refundable financial guarantee, typically in denominations of USD 5,000, USD 10,000 or USD 15,000, before a qualifying visa can be issued.

The decision on whether to impose a bond, and at what level, is left to consular discretion and is based on factors such as the applicant’s travel history, socio-economic profile and perceived overstay risk.

The bond is intended to serve as a deterrent against overstaying; it is returned if the traveller complies fully with the terms of admission and departs the US within the authorised period. Officials stress that payment of a bond does not guarantee visa approval, nor does refusal of a visa automatically lead to forfeiture, as funds are generally returned where a visa is not issued.​

The bond requirement can be traced to a broader push by US authorities to curb chronic visa overstay rates and tighten controls on temporary visitors. It builds on a pilot initiative launched during the Trump administration, which instructed the State Department to explore financial instruments targeting countries with consistently high overstay levels among B1/B2 travellers.

US officials argue that the measure is a targeted tool designed to encourage better compliance with immigration rules and to press foreign governments to work more closely with Washington on documentation, returns and identity verification.

The expansion of the bond regime coincides with other layers of scrutiny, including stricter in‑person interviews, more exhaustive background checks and enhanced requirements for disclosure of past travel and online activity.

For many prospective visitors, especially those from lower- and middle-income backgrounds, the bond effectively raises the cost of a US trip far beyond the reach of most households, even if the amount is ultimately refundable.

Travel industry stakeholders warn that the measure may deter genuine tourists and business visitors, depress demand on key routes and hurt airlines, tour operators and hospitality providers that rely on emerging markets.

Rights advocates and migration experts have also voiced concern over the policy’s design and geographic focus, warning that it risks stigmatizing entire nationalities and entrenching perceptions of discriminatory treatment.

Some analysts argue that cooperative arrangements to improve data-sharing and documentation systems would likely be more sustainable than heavy financial guarantees imposed unilaterally on travellers from selected countries.

Current roster of countries under bond regime
The following 13 countries are currently understood to fall under the US visitor visa bond requirement for designated B1/B2 applicants:

These listings may be subject to further revision depending on US policy reviews, overstay metrics and diplomatic engagements with the affected governments.

The General Authority of Customs (GAC) has confirmed that comprehensive regulatory measures are firmly in place to ensure the uninterrupted entry of goods and commodities into the country, safeguarding supply chain continuity and maintaining a steady flow of imports.

According to the authority, close coordination is ongoing with relevant government entities to reinforce supply chain resilience and streamline customs procedures. GAC has strengthened its operational presence across all entry points — including land, sea, and air routes — to facilitate the smooth clearance of shipments, with particular priority given to essential commodities such as food and medical supplies.

In response to regional challenges and risks associated with maritime routes, the use of land corridors has been significantly expanded to reduce dependence on shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.

The authority continues to implement expedited customs clearance processes while diversifying import sources, ensuring that perishable goods remain consistently available despite disruptions in sea transport. Additionally, the International Road Transport (TIR) system has been activated at the Abu Samra border crossing to further enhance the efficiency of cross-border cargo movement.

GAC has urged logistics and cargo operators to register under the TIR system, highlighting its ability to cut waiting times at border checkpoints by up to 90%, thereby accelerating cargo handling and maintaining a stable inflow of goods. All clearance procedures, the authority emphasized, are conducted in accordance with internationally recognized standards.

To further support efficiency, GAC has introduced dedicated fast-track lanes for essential goods, implemented round-the-clock customs operations, and simplified inspection and documentation requirements—while maintaining stringent quality controls.

Officials reassured that there is no risk of shortages in key commodities, particularly food, pharmaceuticals, and raw materials for local industries. They noted that the country’s supply network remains robust and diversified, supported by multiple sourcing channels and transport routes, ensuring reliable alternatives even amid potential regional escalation.

The authority also underscored its well-established crisis management framework, backed by advanced digital systems. Central to this is the Al Nadeeb electronic customs platform, which integrates government agencies and private sector stakeholders into a unified digital interface. The platform allows for online submission of documents, electronic payments, and approvals, significantly reducing processing times and minimizing the need for physical inspections.

In March alone, GAC processed a total of 255,080 customs declarations. The Al Nadeeb platform recorded 1,179 active users, while the customer service centre handled 790 transactions. During the same period, authorities reported 44 seizure cases.

Meanwhile, the domestic retail market continues to demonstrate strong stability, with no indications of shortages. Essential goods, including both food and non-food items, remain widely available across retail outlets nationwide, with prices largely stable compared to pre-crisis levels.

Authorities attributed this to swift and coordinated government action, effective collaboration with the private sector, and rigorous market monitoring measures aimed at preventing price manipulation and ensuring consumer protection.

Source: gulf-times

The Council of Ministers Secretariat General has released the official working hours for government entities during the Holy Month of Ramadan 2026. Government employees will observe a five-hour workday, from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM.

To provide flexibility, employees may begin their workday as late as 10:00 AM, provided they complete the full five-hour schedule and fulfill all work responsibilities.

In addition, up to 30% of government staff are permitted to work remotely. Priority for remote work will be given to Qatari mothers and individuals with disabilities, while ensuring that the operational needs of each entity are met.

The Ministry of Public Health and the Ministry of Education and Higher Education will determine their own working hours and schedules based on specific operational requirements.

The Council also reminded private sector employees to coordinate with their respective human resources departments regarding Ramadan working arrangements.

This announcement aims to balance employee well-being during Ramadan with the continued delivery of public services across Qatar.

Visit Qatar has concluded the 2026 edition of Brouq, its signature desert experience, after attracting over 60,000 visitors throughout the winter season. The 77-day event, which ran until 10 February, drew 61,121 attendees, reaffirming its place as one of Qatar’s most popular open-air attractions during the cooler months.

Set against the scenic desert backdrop, Brouq 2026 offered a dynamic mix of adventure, culture, and entertainment. Among its main highlights, the Desert Escape Zone featured a 25-metre Adventure Tower, a new zipline experience, open-air dining venues, and an ongoing schedule of live performances. It was one of five new areas introduced this year to add more variety and excitement to the experience.

The Film City Zone brought local culture to life through falcon photo opportunities, henna art, traditional music, and storytelling sessions. Across the site, visitors could take part in more than 500 activities and workshops, many designed for families and younger audiences. Puppet shows, face painting, and caricature drawing helped create a lively and welcoming atmosphere for children.

This year’s edition also unveiled several new features, including the Sunset Lounge, Brouq Wildlife Reserve, Mini Safari Cars, and the Family Majlis, expanding the range of things to see and do. The activation was further supported by 24 food, beverage and retail vendors, making it a complete outing for families and groups.

Visit Qatar said Brouq continues to support the country’s tourism goals by enriching the local leisure offering, encouraging residents and visitors to explore more of Qatar, and adding momentum to the nation’s year-round events calendar.

The Qatar Civil Aviation Authority (QCAA) recently hosted a comprehensive technical workshop in collaboration with Jeppesen, the internationally recognized provider of aeronautical charting solutions.

This initiative was convened to address the recent amendments to ICAO Annex 14, which governs aerodrome design and operations, and Annex 15, covering Aeronautical Information Services, ensuring that Qatar’s aviation stakeholders remain fully informed of evolving international regulatory frameworks and best practices.

The session was designed to deepen participants’ understanding of the implications of these regulatory updates for aerodrome infrastructure, aeronautical data dissemination, and the preparation of navigation material critical for safe and efficient flight operations.

By enhancing technical competencies, QCAA aims to support alignment with global standards established by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and to reinforce Qatar’s commitment to maintaining world‑class aviation safety, efficiency, and compliance.

Representatives from key aviation entities—including the Air Navigation Department, Qatar Airways, and Hamad International Airport—actively engaged in the workshop, exchanging insights and practical perspectives on integrating the latest Annex requirements into their operational processes.

This collaborative forum also facilitated discussions on the practical application of updated aeronautical information services and charting procedures, which are essential for accurate flight planning and air traffic management.

The workshop underlines QCAA’s ongoing efforts to foster continuous professional development and strengthen coordination among national aviation stakeholders, thereby supporting Qatar’s broader objectives in aviation safety, regulatory excellence, and adherence to international civil aviation best practices.

The Qatar Civil Aviation Authority (QCAA) has organized a comprehensive awareness and training workshop for inspectors specializing in travel and air cargo agencies under its Air Transport Department. The event, held from January 26 to 28, 2026, seeks to strengthen regulatory oversight within Qatar’s aviation and travel sectors while enhancing institutional efficiency in line with global standards.

The three-day program aims to deepen inspectors’ understanding of the newly enacted law governing travel and air cargo agencies, as well as its executive regulations. Participants are being introduced to updated procedures covering agency licensing, renewal processes, operational compliance, and inspection methodologies.

The agenda also includes discussions on monitoring mechanisms for ensuring adherence to national regulations and the proper licensing of international distribution system companies authorized to operate in Qatar.

In addition, the sessions address the technical and safety requirements related to the transport of dangerous goods, ensuring that operations across the sector remain fully aligned with the safety frameworks and best practices established by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).

Through interactive presentations and case studies, the workshop highlights the vital role inspectors play in overseeing industry standards and enforcing compliance. The program also aims to enhance participants’ analytical and field inspection skills, enabling them to carry out their duties more effectively and contribute to raising the overall quality of regulatory performance across the aviation ecosystem.

This initiative forms part of the QCAA’s continuous professional development plan aimed at upgrading the competencies of its workforce and fostering a culture of excellence in regulatory practices. It also supports the goals of Qatar National Vision 2030, which emphasizes human capital development and the advancement of skilled national professionals capable of driving sustainable growth in strategically important sectors such as civil aviation.

By investing in advanced training and awareness initiatives, the QCAA reaffirms its commitment to ensuring the highest levels of safety, efficiency, and service quality within Qatar’s rapidly expanding aviation and travel industries.