GCC Countries to Launch Unified Tourist Visa Pilot Program by Late 2025

Exciting news is on the horizon for travelers! The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) is preparing to introduce the unified GCC Grand Tourist Visa, which aims to simplify travel across six member states. This innovative visa system, reminiscent of Europe’s Schengen visa, will allow visitors to explore the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Qatar, Kuwait, and Bahrain with a single permit.

Pilot Phase and Strategic Importance

The long-anticipated GCC Grand Tour Visa is nearing its launch, with a pilot phase expected by late 2025. Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, UAE Minister of Economy and Tourism, emphasizes that this initiative marks a significant step toward regional integration. He believes the unified visa will enhance the Gulf’s appeal as a cohesive tourism destination.

Final Approval and Digital Processing

Jassim Al-Budaiwi, Secretary-General of the GCC, announced that the visa framework has reached its final approval and technical phases. Tourists will process their visa applications through a dedicated digital platform. This platform aims to simplify access and planning for those eager to embark on multi-destination trips across the Gulf.

The digital infrastructure promises smoother processing, improved data coordination among member states, and reduced administrative hurdles for travelers.

Benefits of the Unified Visa

The GCC Grand Tour Visa will enable tourists to navigate seamlessly between all six member states with one permit. Initially approved by GCC ministers in 2023, the system is now moving towards full digital integration and logistical preparation.

Tourism officials see this visa as a vital step in elevating the GCC as a competitive global destination. Al Marri stated that this initiative will promote cross-border tourism, stimulate economic growth, and enhance the region’s image as an interconnected market. The rollout will occur in stages, beginning with the pilot phase at the end of 2025 before expanding to all member states.

Strengthening the Regional Tourism Network

The Gulf region has already established itself as a hub for intra-regional travel. In 2024, the UAE welcomed 3.3 million visitors from GCC countries, representing 11% of total hotel guests. The statistics include:

• Saudi Arabia: 1.9 million (58%)
• Oman: 777,000 (24%)
• Kuwait: 381,000 (12%)
• Bahrain: 123,000 (4%)
• Qatar: 93,000 (3%)

These numbers highlight the interconnected tourism network in the Gulf, which the unified visa will further enhance. By minimizing travel barriers, the visa will encourage longer stays and multi-country tours.

Looking Forward

As the pilot launch of the unified GCC tourist visa approaches, the Gulf is poised for a transformative era in regional travel. For the first time, visitors will experience the deserts of Saudi Arabia, the pristine beaches of Oman, the stunning skylines of Dubai and Doha, and the rich heritage of Kuwait and Bahrain—all with one travel document.

If the rollout proceeds as planned, the GCC Grand Tours Visa could revolutionize the region’s image to the world, turning six borders into a single, welcoming gateway for global travelers. Excitement is building as the Gulf prepares to welcome tourists like never before!