GCC Unified Visa is Close to Launch, and Here is What You Need to Know

The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) is moving closer to launching its long-anticipated unified tourist visa known as the Gulf Grand Tours Visa. The visa will allow travel between the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, and Oman using a single travel permit. 

According to GCC Secretary-General Jassim Al-Budaiwi, the new visa system is expected to be introduced by late 2025 following the completion of legal and technical preparations.

Modeled after the European Schengen visa, the Gulf Grand Tours Visa will allow tourists and visitors to move freely across the six member states without the need to apply separately for each country. The visa is expected to be valid for one to three months.

Tourism and economic analysts view the unified visa as a key development for boosting travel demand across the Gulf. Figures from the GCC Statistical Center show that tourism revenue in the region reached $110.4 billion in 2023. 

Officials expect that this growth will continue to support more visitor distribution across all six countries and encourage longer and multi-destination stays.

The visa will apply to tourists and family visitors only and will not cover laborers. Violating the visa terms may lead to deportation or a ban. 

As of now, the exact visa fee has not been announced. However, sources suggest it will be a more affordable option compared to acquiring separate visas for each country. 

The process for obtaining the visa will be carried out through an electronic platform where applicants will submit required forms and documents such as hotel bookings, travel tickets, health insurance, and proof of income.

The visa is expected to be available to nationals of countries that are currently eligible for an evisa or a visa on arrival.

Citizens of the GCC member states will not need a visa due to existing agreements that allow free movement within the area.

The Gulf Grand Tours Visa is expected to increase cross-border tourism efforts and introduce more visitors to Arab traditions and Gulf culture. From food and festivals to desert adventures and city experiences, the initiative opens doors for deeper cultural exchange and regional development.