07/07/2025
This initiative, often dubbed the "GCC Grand Tours Visa" or a "Schengen-style visa" for the Gulf, aims to streamline travel for international visitors. It will allow tourists to explore all six member states of the Gulf Cooperation Council – Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates – under the convenience of a single visa.
The unified visa received formal approval in November 2023 during the 40th GCC Interior Ministers' Meeting held in Oman, marking a crucial step forward. While an exact launch date has not been officially confirmed, current reports indicate that the project is in its final stages of implementation. Speculation suggests the visa could become operational by late 2025 or early 2026, signaling that its introduction is imminent.
The primary objective behind this unified visa is to significantly boost tourism across the GCC by simplifying the entry process and making it more appealing for international travelers. By eliminating the need for separate visa applications for each country, the initiative is expected to encourage longer stays and multi-country itineraries. This will allow visitors to experience the diverse cultural heritage, modern attractions, and natural landscapes that each GCC nation has to offer more easily.
Furthermore, the unified visa is anticipated to be an online application process, enhancing accessibility and convenience for applicants worldwide. While specific details on validity are still emerging, it is expected to cover tourism and family visits, with a likely duration of 30 to 90 days. This forward-thinking approach will not only reduce bureaucratic hurdles and potentially overall travel costs but also promote the GCC as a cohesive and attractive tourism destination on the global stage.
