Egypt ends visa-free entry for Qatari nationals

Qatari nationals will now have to apply for a visa to enter Egypt, the ministry said on Monday.

"It does not make sense to keep making exceptions for Qatar and giving it privileges in light of its current positions," said Ahmed Abu Zeid, Egypt's foreign ministry spokesman.

The restriction will not affect spouses and children of Egyptian nationals, as well as Qatari nationals who are studying at Egyptian public universities, Abu Zeid said.

Media reports quoted sources at Cairo International Airport as saying that the decision would be implemented as of Wednesday or Thursday.

Egypt's state-run Ahram Online publication said earlier on Monday that the move would affect not only the holders of ordinary passports but also those with a diplomatic or special travel documents.