Unified GCC Visa: Latest Updates

The Unified GCC Visa is expected to be launched by the end of 2025, facilitating travel in the region for both GCC residents and international visitors.

Also known as the GCC Tourist Visa, it has been officially named the GCC Grand Tours Visa. With this Schengen-style visa, foreign nationals will be able to travel freely and conveniently within the GCC region. The six countries in the GCC are Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates (UAE), Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Oman. Foreign visitors will no longer need to apply for a separate visa for each GCC country, making travel in the region a seamless experience.

Even though the Unified GCC Visa was approved in 2023 and was expected to be launched by the end of 2024, there have been a few delays. The initiative is now in its final stages, and it is highly likely to be rolled out later this year.

Foreign nationals residing in the GCC who do not have visa-free access to other GCC countries will benefit from the new visa as they will be able to travel across the region with a single visa.

The GCC has not released the exact details of the visa, but it is anticipated that the GCC Tourist Visa will allow its holders to access all six countries with a single visa. The visa will probably be issued for tourism and family and friend visits, and all applications will need to be completed online on the official GCC Grand Tours Visa website. Applicants will also be able to choose between one-country or multi-country access, and the validity period is likely to range from 30 to 90 days.

Besides the benefits that GCC residents and international travellers are set to enjoy, the Unified GCC Visa will bring several advantages to the region as well. The visa is expected to boost tourism and strengthen economic growth throughout the GCC with the influx of visitors. The GCC is aiming for an increase in hotel and flight bookings, retail spending, and cultural exchange.

When the visa is launched, travellers will likely need to submit their application online on the GCC Grand Tours Visa website. They may have the option of applying for a single-country visa or a six-country visa.

Some of the required documents likely include a copy of their passport with a validity period of at least six months; a recent passport-sized photo; proof of accommodation, such as a hotel booking; travel insurance with medical coverage; proof of funds, such as bank statements; and a return or onward ticket.

After filling out the application form with their personal information and uploading the required documents, applicants will need to make payment securely online. After the visa is approved, an e-visa will be sent via email, which travellers may print out or save on their devices to present at the borders.

Visa on arrival will probably not be included in this scheme; all applicants will need to apply and receive their e-visas before they arrive in the region.