Gulf Nations Prepare to Launch Unified Tourist Visa
Schengen-style “GCC Grand Tours Visa” set to reshape travel across six Middle Eastern countries.

One Visa for Six Gulf Countries

The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) plans to launch a unified tourist visa by the end of 2025. This visa will cover Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Oman under one entry permit.

Travellers will move freely between these countries without applying for multiple visas. This long-anticipated initiative aims to boost tourism and make travel in the region more efficient.

Currently, visa policies vary across the Gulf. Some countries offer visas on arrival, while others require an e-visa. The new visa will replace this mix with one streamlined online application. It will allow stays of 30 to 90 days and offer both single and multi-country access.

What Travellers Need to Apply

Applicants must submit a valid passport, travel insurance, and a recent bank statement. They will also need a passport-sized photo, proof of accommodation, and return flight bookings.

The visa will be reasonably priced, according to GCC officials. Applications will be processed through a central online platform.

GCC nations received over 68 million international tourists in 2023. Tourism revenues reached $110.4 billion, a 28% increase from 2019.

The new visa is expected to boost these numbers even further. It supports longer stays and multi-country travel itineraries, such as Dubai to Muscat to Riyadh.

Supporting Regional Integration

The visa reflects growing cooperation between GCC tourism ministries. Officials aim to create a unified travel experience similar to the European Schengen model. The visa could also drive job creation and investment in hospitality and infrastructure. The UAE alone expects to reach 1 million tourism jobs by 2030.

Blending Business and Leisure Travel

The visa will encourage “bleisure” travel by allowing business travellers to explore neighbouring countries. It reduces red tape, supports regional airlines, and promotes cultural exchange. Cross-border journeys by road or air will become quicker and easier.

GCC Secretary General Jassem Al Budaiwi praised the move as a vision of unity.

UAE Minister Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri confirmed the visa is now in the implementation phase.

Authorities expect to launch the system officially before the end of 2025.

A New Era for Gulf Tourism

Dubai welcomed over 7 million visitors in early 2025 and leads tourism growth in the region. The unified visa will help extend those visits to places like Doha, Muscat, and Riyadh. By making cross-border travel seamless, the GCC aims to transform the Gulf into a top global destination.