UAE Minister Confirms Unified Gulf Visa Trial by End of 2025

The pilot launch of the unified Gulf tourist visa is expected to begin in the final quarter of 2025, according to UAE Minister of Economy and Tourism Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri. 

Speaking in a recent interview, Al Marri said the initial phase will roll out before a full implementation takes place at a later stage. The visa initiative, which has been in development for several years, aims to simplify travel across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries.

Al Marri, who also chairs the Emirates Tourism Council, said the visa will support deeper regional cooperation. He explained that it is designed to position the Gulf as a connected travel destination and make movement between member states easier for international visitors. The minister called it a strategic step toward building a more unified tourism offering in the region.

He added that tourism remains a top priority under the UAE’s long-term economic plans. As part of the UAE Tourism Strategy 2031, the government will launch several new campaigns this year. That includes the sixth edition of the “World’s Coolest Winter” campaign, scheduled to begin in December.

He also shared updated figures showing that tourism-related commercial licenses in the UAE have grown significantly. By mid-September 2025, the number of licenses in tourism, aviation, and digital travel services had reached 39,546. That marks a 275% increase compared to the same period in 2020.

Earlier this month, GCC Secretary-General Jassim Al-Budaiwi confirmed that the unified tourist visa, branded as the “GCC Grand Tours” visa, is now in its final approval stage. 

While the official launch date, price, and validity period have not yet been announced, experts say the new system is expected to create major opportunities for regional travel and economic growth.