Qatar pauses visa-on-arrival for Pakistanis amid regional tensions

DOHA: The visa-on-arrival facility for Pakistani travelers has been stopped in Qatar due to the current situation in the Middle East.

The Pakistan Embassy in Qatar has issued a new advisory for Pakistani travelers, which reads, “Pakistani nationals intending to travel to Qatar are advised that the visa-on-arrival facility is currently not available due to the prevailing situation.”

The officials at the embassy have clearly mentioned that a valid visa is required before traveling to Qatar, and a new advisory for Pakistani citizens has been issued, which reads, “Entry will not be allowed without proper visa clearance.”

Meanwhile, Iran’s parliament management plan has been officially introduced to regulate the Strait of Hormuz more strictly. Lawmakers started the approval process this week in Tehran.

The Iranian parliament’s security committee has approved a proposal to impose tolls on ships passing through the strait. The move is part of efforts to tighten control over the waterway that carries a large share of the world’s oil supply.

Under the Iranian parliament management plan, the government would collect fees in local currency from vessels that transit the Strait. The proposal also includes stronger security measures and environmental protections.

The plan bans vessels from countries that have imposed sanctions on Iran. This includes a prohibition on ships from the United States and Israel.

Officials say the fees will help fund regional development and cover the costs of guiding services for ships. The plan has drawn both support and criticism internationally.

The Strait of Hormuz is a crucial route for global energy traffic. Any changes in its operation could affect world oil markets and international trade.