The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries will roll out a unified Gulf touristvisa for tourists and businessmen from 35 foreign and Arab countries within this year. This Schengen-style visa, will allow the visa holders to travel across the six Gulf countries. The unified visa system aims to boost tourism and facilitate travel within the region.
Once the system is finalised, nationals from the 35 countries would be able tovisit the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, and Oman under a singlevisa. With the provision of a unified visa, GCC residents would also be able to travel visa-free, just like nationals, to all the countries under the Council.
According to the UAE Minister Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri, this initiative is an integral part of the GCC 2030 tourism strategy, designed to elevate the tourism sector’s contribution to the GDP through increased inter-GCC travel and elevated hotel occupancy rates, transforming the GCC into a pre-eminent global destination for both regional and international tourists.
In a statement to the Emirates News Agency (WAM), the minister said that specific regulations and legislation for the visa will be developed, with a targeted rollout between 2024 and 2025, subject to the readiness of each GCC country’s internal systems.
Benefits of GCC Visa
Easy Multi-Country Travel within the GCC
With a single visa, tourists can effortlessly explore multiple GCC nations without the hassle of applying for separate visas. This streamlined system enhances convenience, allowing travellers to experience more of the Gulf region with minimal administrative burdens.
Simplified Visa Process
The Grand Tours Visa application will be entirely digital, offering a seamless and user-friendly experience. Tourists can apply for entry into one or all six GCC countries within minutes, significantly reducing the time and effort required compared to obtaining individual visas for each destination.
Cost-Effective
Opting for the unified GCC visa allows tourists to save money by eliminating the need for multiple visa applications. This makes travel across all six nations more affordable, offering an economical choice for those eager to explore the Gulf region.
Enhanced Travel Experience
The GCC visa provides tourists with the chance to explore all six culturally diverse and historically rich nations with ease. By reducing administrative complexities, this visa allows travellers to experience the unique heritage of each country without the hassle of multiple applications. For travel enthusiasts, the ability to visit all six nations effortlessly is a major advantage of this system.