Doha: The Ministry of Interior (MoI) has disclosed it will dedicate a lane to pre-registered vehicles crossing the Abu Samra border days before the Eid Al Fitr celebrations.
The announcement also comes just as officials announced the expansion of the Hayya platform for visa services into the country.
According to the MoI in a tweet yesterday, registration via Metrash2 is optional for citizens and residents. Pre-registration saves time and prevents queues.
“Qatari citizens and residents can take advantage of Pre-Registration Service for Abu Samra Border Crossing in #Metrash2 to complete departure and arrival procedures at Abu Samra border through a fast lane exclusive for pre-registered vehicles,” the tweet read.
“Pre-Registration Service for Abu Samra Border Crossing in Metrash2 is an optional service that allows citizens and residents to complete departure and arrival procedures at Abu Samra border through a dedicated fast lane, while other lanes will serve as usual,” it added.
To take advantage of this service, users can log in to the Metrash2 app, select ‘Travel Services’ and then ‘Pre-Registration for Abu Samra Border Crossing’, and enter the required data, including vehicle, driver and passengers. After confirmation of the request, the ministry will send an SMS to the beneficiary.
Meanwhile, visitors can pre-register and benefit from the same service via the Hayya platform on the website or application. Users have to prepare and fill in the required data and receive a confirmation that the pre-registration process has been completed before proceeding to the designated lane at the Abu Samra border.
This service is optional and free of charge, and the regular border crossing, which includes 24 passport offices and thirty-six checkpoints, will continue to operate as usual.
Meanwhile, Qatar Tourism has announced visitors arriving at Hamad International Airport and the Abu Samra border will receive a special ‘Eidya’ gift package during Eid Al-Fitr 2023.
The initiative aims to enhance the tourism experience for visitors and promote Qatar as a welcoming destination for travellers.
According to authorities, the package will include a children’s activity kit, a map showcasing top attractions to provide visitors with inspiration on what to do and see, an Ooredoo SIM card to stay connected, and a booklet with exclusive, special offers from popular brands and destinations in Qatar.
Last year, the General Authority of Customs (GAC) announced that it serviced 62,628 vehicles entering and exiting Qatar through Abu Samra during the Eid Al Fitr celebrations.
The crossing is equipped with world-class X-ray inspection devices to ensure the smooth and efficient flow of passengers and commercial cargo.
