Latest news with #UnifiedGCCTouristVisa
&w=3840&q=100)
First Post
2 days ago
- Business
- First Post
How a new Schengen-style visa will change travel in the Gulf region
Travelling across the Gulf is about to get a lot easier. A new Schengen-style Unified Tourist Visa will soon let visitors explore Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, Oman, Bahrain and Kuwait on a single permit. Expected to launch by late 2025, the visa aims to streamline tourism and boost regional economies read more The Gulf, specifically refers to the countries surrounding the Persian Gulf, which includes Bahrain, Kuwait, Iraq, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). All of these except Iraq are also members of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). Representational Image/Pixabay The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) is preparing to launch a new Unified Tourist Visa that will allow international travellers to visit multiple Gulf countries on a single entry permit. Known interchangeably as the GCC Grand Tours Visa or the Unified GCC Tourist Visa, the initiative has already received official approval and is currently under implementation. The visa system, which draws comparisons with Europe's Schengen visa, is expected to be operational by late 2025 or early 2026, according to GCC and member state officials. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Once introduced, the new visa regime will apply to all six GCC member nations — Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Oman — enabling eligible foreign nationals to move freely between these countries for short-term visits. What we know about the Unified GCC Tourist Visa The new system will offer two options: one for travel to a single GCC country and another that permits access to multiple member states. While further specifics on visa fees and validity are yet to be announced, officials have indicated that the permit is expected to be valid for a period ranging from 30 to 90 days, depending on the traveller's itinerary and visa type. Once operational, the visa application process will be conducted entirely through a centralised online platform, accessible to eligible travellers worldwide. Users will be required to submit personal information, travel dates and intended destinations across the Gulf. Applicants will have to choose whether they want a visa for one GCC country or for multiple member states. In addition to filling out an online form, applicants will need to upload a number of supporting documents. These are expected to include: A valid passport A recent passport-style photograph, likely with a white background Proof of accommodation, such as hotel reservations or an invitation letter from a host Comprehensive travel insurance that is valid across all six GCC countries A recent bank statement demonstrating the applicant's financial capacity A confirmed return or onward flight ticket, indicating departure from the GCC After submission, applicants will be required to pay the visa fee online via a secure payment gateway using a debit or credit card. While the exact visa fee has not yet been announced, officials have stated that the unified option will be more affordable than applying for six individual visas. Once approved, the visa will be issued electronically via email. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Travellers are advised to carry a printed copy throughout their journey, as it may be requested during border checks or by immigration authorities during inter-GCC travel. The Unified Tourist Visa is designed exclusively for tourism, short-term stays, and family visits. It will not permit employment or long-term residence, which will continue to be governed by the respective immigration policies of each member state. The GCC Secretary General Jassem Al Budaiwi, in a public statement, described the initiative as an essential step in regional development, noting, 'The unified visa reflects the vision of our leaders to strengthen integration and cooperation.' Why the Unified GCC Tourist Visa matters The introduction of a multi-country visa system is expected to significantly improve travel flexibility and enhance the overall visitor experience in the Gulf. According to GCC authorities and tourism officials, the visa is expected to ease the administrative burden for travellers, encourage longer itineraries, and stimulate broader movement between countries. It is also poised to support the growth of key economic sectors, including hospitality, aviation, ground transport, and retail. The new visa is part of the GCC's wider tourism development agenda. In 2023, the Gulf region saw 68.1 million tourist arrivals, marking a 42.8 per cent increase over pre-pandemic levels and generating more than $110 billion in tourism revenue. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Destinations like Dubai, which recorded over 7.1 million visitors between January and April this year, are expected to benefit even more from the spillover effect, as travellers use Dubai as an entry point before moving on to explore cities such as Doha, Muscat or Riyadh. Another important dimension of this initiative is the promotion of 'bleisure' travel — a growing trend that combines business and leisure. Business travellers coming to the region for work-related purposes may now find it easier to extend their stay for personal travel across neighbouring GCC countries, thereby contributing further to the local economies. In addition to tourism, the unified visa is expected to drive job creation and investment across multiple sectors. In the UAE alone, the travel and tourism industry supported 833,000 jobs in 2024, and according to the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC), this number is projected to grow to 1 million jobs by 2030. Speaking during a press event, UAE Minister of Economy Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri confirmed the visa's approval, stating, 'The single (GCC) tourist visa has been approved and waiting now to be implemented, hopefully, soon.' STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD With inputs from agencies
Arab Times
21-06-2025
- Business
- Arab Times
GCC unveils major visa reforms in 2025 to enhance travel, tourism, and economic integration
DUBAI, UAE, June 21: The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), consisting of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Saudi Arabia, Oman, Qatar, Bahrain, and Kuwait, has long been recognized as a key economic bloc with forward-thinking policies that attract international visitors and enhance regional connectivity. In 2025, the GCC is witnessing a transformative shift in its travel and tourism sector through a series of groundbreaking visa reforms aimed at simplifying entry procedures, increasing tourism flows, and promoting greater regional integration. The visa reforms introduced across GCC member states this year include unified tourist permits and streamlined visa processes for expatriates and tourists alike. These measures are poised to redefine the travel experience across the Gulf, benefiting both visitors and the local economies of member nations. Unified GCC tourist visa introduced: A landmark reform Among the most significant developments of 2025 is the launch of the Unified GCC Tourist Visa. This revolutionary policy enables travelers to visit all six GCC countries using a single permit—mirroring the Schengen visa system in Europe. In the past, tourists needed to apply for individual visas for each GCC nation, a process often seen as cumbersome and costly. The new unified visa facilitates smooth cross-border travel, encouraging tourism and closer cooperation between member states. It is expected to stimulate both leisure and business travel throughout the Gulf. Key features: Single Visa for All Six GCC Nations: Tourists can now access the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Qatar, Bahrain, and Kuwait using a unified visa.n Stronger Regional Connectivity: The visa eases movement between member states, increasing the Gulf's attractiveness to global travelers.n Simplified Digital Process: Available online, the application process is user-friendly and efficient.n This development marks a milestone for regional tourism, offering travelers the opportunity to explore the entire Gulf on a single trip. UAE: Expanding access through innovative reforms As a longstanding leader in tourism and travel innovation, the United Arab Emirates is playing a pivotal role in the implementation of the new visa policies. The country's adoption of the Unified GCC Tourist Visa is part of a broader initiative to make international travel more seamless. Additional UAE visa updates: Entry Visas for GCC Residents: Expatriates residing in other GCC countries can now apply for UAE entry visas independently, without needing a local sponsor. Required documentation includes proof of residence, a valid passport, and supporting materials.n Multiple-Entry eVisas for Expats: A newly introduced eVisa allows expatriates in the GCC to enter the UAE multiple times over the span of a year without having to reapply.n These updates are designed to strengthen the UAE's position as one of the top destinations in the region for both tourists and business travelers. Saudi Arabia: Reforms cater to business and religious tourism Saudi Arabia has also rolled out major changes in 2025 to attract both religious pilgrims and business travelers. The nation's visa policies now provide greater flexibility and oversight for visitors from across the region. Key Saudi reforms: Multiple-Entry eVisa for GCC Expats: Expatriates residing in other GCC nations can now apply for a visa that allows multiple entries within a 12-month period, easing travel for business and family visits.n Mandatory Hotel Bookings for Umrah Visa Applicants: Pilgrims must now present confirmed accommodations via official platforms when applying for an Umrah visa. This step is aimed at improving logistical planning and avoiding peak-season overbookings.n These steps are expected to enhance the pilgrimage experience for Muslims worldwide while boosting the kingdom's appeal for other forms of tourism. Oman: Welcoming the world with visa-free entry In a bold move, Oman has expanded its visa-free entry policy in 2025, granting citizens of 103 countries—including most of Europe—14 days of visa-free access. Policy Highlights: 14-Day Visa-Free Stay: Citizens from eligible countries can enter Oman without a visa for up to two weeks, enabling more spontaneous and short-term travel.n Tourism Promotion Strategy: This initiative forms part of Oman's broader plan to grow its tourism infrastructure and diversify its economy.n Oman's relaxed visa rules are expected to attract a new wave of international travelers, particularly those seeking short getaways in the Middle East. Qatar: Enhancing regional travel through unified visa Qatar has joined the GCC-wide visa initiative in 2025, granting tourists access to the full range of Gulf countries under the new unified visa system. Qatar's visa enhancements include: Adoption of Unified GCC Tourist Visa: Tourists can now include Qatar in their Gulf travel itinerary with a single entry permit.n Promotion of Local Attractions: Qatar anticipates a rise in tourism thanks to easier access to its museums, luxury resorts, and natural beauty.n As part of its national vision, Qatar aims to make itself more appealing to cultural, adventure, and high-end tourism markets. Bahrain: Supporting seamless Gulf travel Bahrain has embraced the Unified GCC Tourist Visa alongside its regional partners, offering easier travel across borders and helping to unify the Gulf as a tourism hub. Visa Policy Updates: Unified GCC Access: Bahrain is now fully integrated into the regional visa system.n Support for Business and Leisure Travel: The new framework supports Bahrain's ambition to become a nexus for commerce and culture in the Gulf.n With its mix of historic charm and modern appeal, Bahrain stands to benefit significantly from the anticipated increase in tourist arrivals. Kuwait: Streamlining the work permit system Unlike its neighbors' focus on tourism, Kuwait has introduced a major update to its work visa policy in 2025, affecting expatriates across all sectors. Details of the reform: Standardized Work Permit Fees: Kuwait now imposes a unified fee of KD150 for all work permit transfers, abolishing previous exemptions that led to inconsistencies.n Implications for Employers and Workers: This policy is intended to simplify administrative processes and enhance oversight across the labor market.n Though the change may pose initial challenges for some workers, it represents a strategic effort to bring more uniformity and efficiency to Kuwait's employment system. Toward a new era of GCC travel Collectively, the visa reforms enacted across the GCC in 2025 signify a strong commitment to regional cooperation and economic diversification through tourism. From the unprecedented rollout of a unified tourist visa to improvements in entry procedures for expatriates, these changes are designed to support sustainable growth and global accessibility. GCC member states are positioning themselves as major players in the international travel industry by: Offering simplified, digital visa processes.n Promoting multi-country tourism packages.n Facilitating religious, business, and leisure travel.n For prospective travelers, staying informed about each country's specific visa requirements remains essential. However, the new visa landscape opens a wide array of opportunities for global tourists, expatriates, and regional stakeholders alike. With the Gulf now more connected and accessible than ever, 2025 marks a pivotal year in redefining how the world experiences travel in the Middle East.
