In a major boost to regional tourism and integration, the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) is set to roll out a unified tourist visa that will allow visitors to travel freely across six Gulf nations: the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Oman.

The initiative was confirmed by GCC Secretary General Jassem Al Budaiwi, who hailed the collaborative efforts of member states in bringing the long-anticipated proposal to life. The single-entry visa, which mirrors the European Union’s Schengen visa model, was officially approved in November 2023 during a meeting of GCC interior ministers in Oman.

How the unified GCC Visa will work

  • Single Visa, Multiple Destinations: Tourists will be able to use just one visa to visit any or all six GCC countries.
  • For Tourism and Family Visits Only: The visa will be restricted to tourism and visiting family members.
  • Online Application: All applications will be submitted online via a dedicated portal, which will be launched soon.
  • Validity: The visa is expected to be valid for a period ranging from 30 to 90 days.
  • Flexible Options: Applicants may be able to choose between a visa for a single GCC country or a multi-country option.
  • Affordable and Efficient: The new system is aimed at simplifying procedures and reducing the cost compared to applying for separate visas for each country.

Once the visa system is live, applicants will need the following:

  • A passport valid for at least six months
  • A recent passport-sized photo
  • Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or invitation letter)
  • Travel insurance covering medical expenses
  • Proof of sufficient funds (such as a bank statement)
  • A return or onward travel ticket