On 10 February 2026, Thailand’s Cabinet formally reviewed and endorsed progress on the country’s visa reform program, first introduced in 2024 to reinforce tourism and stimulate economic recovery. While most of the reforms have already been rolled out, the latest meeting served to consolidate them under a clearer policy direction and signal that refinements may be introduced—particularly to the 60-day visa exemption, which has faced instances of misuse.

According to Deputy Prime Minister’s Office Spokesperson Aiyarint Panrit, the Cabinet approved updated visa guidelines intended to strengthen Thailand’s appeal as an international destination while maintaining appropriate regulatory oversight.

Rather than marking a dramatic policy shift, the February review represents a continuation and political reaffirmation of measures progressively implemented over the past two years. The objective was to confirm achievements to date, streamline procedures, and define future priorities for managing arrivals and facilitating travel.

60-Day Visa Exemption Remains a Core Feature

A central element of the reform is the 60-day visa exemption, in place since July 2024, which allows passport holders from 93 countries and territories to enter Thailand without a visa for tourism or short-term business. Visitors may also request a 30-day extension during their stay.

The Cabinet confirmed that the scheme will remain in effect but acknowledged operational concerns linked to its expanded duration.

The Visa on Arrival (VoA) system also continues to operate for travelers from 31 countries at designated entry points. Authorities are currently assessing a possible expansion that would add eight more eligible nationalities.

New Visa Types Reflect Changing Travel Trends

Thailand’s updated visa framework also reflects broader global shifts in mobility and work patterns.

The Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) was introduced to attract remote workers and international professionals who wish to combine employment with longer stays. The category responds to the growing popularity of flexible work arrangements and “workcation” lifestyles.

Similarly, the Non-Immigrant ED Plus visa permits certain foreign students to pursue academic programs while engaging in limited employment, enhancing both educational opportunities and economic participation.

Together, these initiatives aim to broaden the range of visitors and residents contributing to Thailand’s economy.

Streamlining and Digitalization of Procedures

Administrative simplification has been another priority. In August 2025, authorities reduced 17 non-immigrant visa classifications to seven main categories, making the system more transparent and easier to navigate.

At the same time, Thailand expanded its e-Visa services worldwide as of January 2025, enabling applicants to complete visa applications online through Thai embassies and consulates without attending in person. This shift represents a significant step toward modernizing the country’s consular processes.

The launch of the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) in May 2025 further strengthened digital border management. Replacing the previously proposed Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA), the TDAC requires travelers to submit entry information online within 72 hours before arrival. The system is designed to speed up processing at immigration checkpoints while improving data monitoring.

Closer Scrutiny of Visa Exemption Misuse

Although the overall strategy seeks to maintain Thailand’s openness and economic dynamism, officials have acknowledged that the extended 60-day visa exemption has created challenges.

Authorities have documented cases of individuals exploiting the longer stay period by engaging in unauthorized work or making repeated back-to-back entries to prolong their presence in the country. Such practices have complicated enforcement and prompted concerns about regulatory gaps.

Government representatives have previously indicated that adjustments could be introduced if necessary, including shortening the permitted stay or tightening entry requirements. The Cabinet reiterated that all options remain under review to ensure that the system supports economic growth without undermining national security or labor market stability.

To address these concerns, the Prime Minister established a dedicated committee last October to evaluate immigration policies more closely. The committee has been tasked with analyzing the impact of the visa exemption program and recommending corrective measures where needed, whether through stronger monitoring, enhanced enforcement, or revised eligibility rules.

At the same time, authorities are reassessing long-stay visa conditions for foreign retirees, with the dual objective of attracting financially secure residents and maintaining effective regulatory safeguards.

Overall, the government’s latest review highlights a balanced approach: sustaining Thailand’s reputation as an accessible and welcoming destination while reinforcing oversight to ensure long-term economic and social stability.

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.