Qatar to allow QID photo updates via approved studios without visiting service centres

Qatar’s Ministry of Interior (MoI) has outlined how citizens and residents can update their Qatar ID (QID) photographs through approved photography studios using a new electronic service linked to the Metrash app and the ministry’s website.

The service, still being prepared for a phased launch, will enable users to have their photographs refreshed in the ministry’s databases without having to visit a government service centre, provided the new images conform to specified standards.

Speaking on Qatar Radio’s Al Shurta Maak (Police With You) programme, First Lieutenant Engineer Ali Hassan Al Sayed, an officer in the Civil Systems Section at the General Directorate of Communications and Information Systems, explained how the service would work, the photographic requirements and the approval process.

How will the new service work?

According to Al Sayed, the procedure begins when a user opens a transaction requiring a personal photograph via Metrash or the MoI website. The system will then check the photograph already stored with the ministry. If an update is needed, a QR code will appear, enabling the user to visit an approved photography studio.

The steps are: users access Metrash or the MoI website and start a service that demands a personal photograph. They receive a QR code if the system determines the registered photo requires updating. They then visit a licensed photography studio and present the QR code. The studio takes a new photograph and uploads it through a dedicated page on the ministry’s website. Users wait for verification and approval, after which the updated photograph is reflected in the ministry’s systems. Finally, – users continue the original transaction electronically via Metrash or the ministry’s website.

What are the photo requirements?

Al Sayed stressed that submitted photographs must comply with internationally recognised standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). The new system uses both automated checks and manual reviews to assess photographs before approving or rejecting them.

He emphasised that photographs manipulated using artificial intelligence will be immediately rejected when detected by the ministry’s verification systems. Images meeting the approved technical specifications can proceed through automated verification, with manual review also available as part of the approval process.

How can users find approved photography studios?

The ministry will provide information about registered photography studios through Metrash and its official website. Participating studios must submit their business details—including names, locations and working hours—which will be displayed to users. Studios will also need QR code scanners to handle requests submitted through the new system.

When will the service become available?

Al Sayed said the service will initially be introduced to a limited group of users to gather feedback from both applicants and participating photography studios. The ministry will then assess the initial experience and gradually expand the service to a wider user base.

The MoI announced on October 25 that technical preparations had been completed, with the official launch to follow once remaining technical and logistical requirements are verified in coordination with photography studio owners.

What are the benefits of the new service?

The official said the project aims to reduce visits to government service centres, speed up electronic transactions and ensure that photographs stored in the ministry’s systems remain current. It will also introduce a consistent standard for personal photographs, helping improve the quality of identification records and simplifying transactions for citizens and residents.

Al Sayed added that the General Directorate of Communications and Information Systems is exploring opportunities to incorporate artificial intelligence into additional ministry services to boost efficiency and user experience.