Saudia ( The COW News Digital)The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) has announced a landmark decision to introduce a single, unified tourist visa that will allow travelers to visit six Gulf nations under one permit. The initiative, called the “GCC Grand Tours Visa,” will be modeled after Europe’s Schengen visa and is expected to roll out on a trial basis by the end of 2025 before becoming fully operational.
According to GCC Secretary-General Jasem Al-Budaiwi, the project is in its final stages and will soon be available through a dedicated digital platform. Once launched, visitors will be able to travel seamlessly across Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Oman without the need to apply for separate visas for each country.
The visa is expected to have a validity period ranging from 30 to 90 days, making it convenient for tourists, business travelers, cultural delegations, and researchers. This move is aimed at saving both time and costs for millions of visitors and residents in the region, who previously faced multiple application processes for traveling within the Gulf.
“This is a historic step toward positioning the GCC as a unified tourism and economic hub,” said Al-Budaiwi, emphasizing that the initiative will enhance regional connectivity and boost economic growth through increased travel and tourism.
Analysts believe the new visa will also encourage longer stays and multi-country itineraries, thereby benefiting airlines, hotels, and local businesses. It is seen as part of the Gulf states’ larger efforts to diversify their economies away from oil dependency and focus on tourism, trade, and cultural exchange.
The plan is expected to attract not only residents of the GCC but also international tourists seeking to explore the region’s cultural diversity — from Saudi Arabia’s heritage sites to Dubai’s modern attractions, Qatar’s museums, Bahrain’s historic forts, Oman’s natural beauty, and Kuwait’s vibrant markets.
With preparations nearing completion, officials say that the visa application process will be simplified and fully digital, ensuring efficiency and accessibility for travelers worldwide.
This groundbreaking initiative could transform the Gulf into a premier destination for global tourism, putting it on par with established multi-country travel zones such as Europe’s Schengen area.
