Unified GCC Tourist Visa to Launch Soon, Allowing Travel Across Six Gulf Nations
The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) is set to roll out a unified single-entry tourist visa that will allow travelers to visit all six member nations — the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Oman — with just one permit. The landmark initiative is expected to boost tourism, simplify travel, and strengthen regional cooperation among Gulf nations.
The announcement was made by GCC Secretary General Jassem Al Budaiwi, who hailed the move as a major step toward regional integration. “The unified visa reflects the vision of our leaders to strengthen integration and cooperation,” he said, adding that the initiative will significantly modernize travel processes while unlocking greater economic and tourism potential in the region.
Visa Inspired by the Schengen Model
The visa, approved in November 2023 during a meeting of GCC interior ministers in Oman, is similar in concept to the European Schengen visa, which allows travel across multiple European countries with one permit. The GCC visa aims to bring the same level of flexibility and convenience for visitors to the Gulf region.
This visa will be available for tourism and family visits only, not for work or residency. It will offer a validity period of 30 to 90 days, depending on the type selected. Tourists will be able to choose whether they want access to a single country or multiple GCC nations.
Seamless Application Process
The entire visa application process will be online, through an official digital portal that will be announced soon. Travelers can apply from anywhere in the world by filling out a short form, selecting their travel preferences, uploading the required documents, and paying a visa fee. The approved visa will be sent to their email, which can then be printed or presented digitally upon arrival.
Documents Required
To apply for the GCC tourist visa, applicants will need the following:
- A valid passport (minimum six months validity)
- A recent passport-sized photograph
- Travel details, including return or onward ticket
- Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or invitation letter)
- Travel insurance covering medical needs
- Proof of financial means, such as a recent bank statement
This document list is designed to ensure applicants are well-prepared for their stay, while also aligning with global security and immigration standards.
Security and Technology Integration
According to Secretary General Al Budaiwi, the visa system will incorporate the latest technologies and adhere to global security protocols. “Involved parties are keen on keeping up with the latest technologies, as well as growing and rapid global security demands,” he said.
The new visa system aims to streamline entry procedures, reduce paperwork, and eliminate the need for travelers to apply for separate visas for each GCC country — a process previously considered tedious and expensive.
Launch Date Imminent
While the exact date for the rollout has not been disclosed, GCC officials say the unified tourist visa will be launched very soon. Once live, the system is expected to be a game-changer for regional tourism, opening the door for millions of international visitors to explore the Gulf’s diverse cultures, landscapes, and experiences in a single trip.
Tourism stakeholders across the region have welcomed the move, anticipating a surge in visitor numbers and economic activity. The visa is also seen as a key component in Gulf nations’ broader efforts to diversify their economies beyond oil and gas.
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