Mashable: Travelers can now explore the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and more with just one visa—here’s everything you need to know about the GCC’s game-changing tourism move. In a bold step toward regional integration and global tourism appeal, the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) has officially approved a unified tourist visa that allows travelers to explore all six member states—United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain, Oman, and Kuwait—under a single permit. This monumental move, reminiscent of Europe’s Schengen visa, is set to transform the way the world experiences the Arabian Gulf. What is the GCC Unified Tourist Visa? The GCC unified tourist visa is a single-entry or multiple-entry travel document that permits foreign tourists to move freely between the six Gulf nations without needing separate visas for each country. It’s aimed at boosting regional tourism, attracting international visitors, and extending average stay durations across the region. The visa was officially approved during the 40th meeting of GCC interior ministers held in Oman in November 2023. The system is expected to be fully operational in late 2024 or early 2025. Coming Soon: GCC Unified Tourist Visa

A single tourist visa will soon allow travelers to visit all six Gulf countries—Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, Oman, Kuwait, and Bahrain—making travel across the region easier and more connected. The visa has been approved and is expected to… pic.twitter.com/FseobyON7l

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This visa is a landmark shift for a region traditionally known for complex border rules and nation-specific visa policies. Previously, tourists would have to apply separately to each country, often with different eligibility requirements, durations, and costs. The new system eliminates these barriers, creating a seamless Gulf experience from the futuristic skyscrapers of Dubai to the ancient souks of Muscat, and from Saudi Arabia’s archaeological treasures to Qatar’s cultural offerings. While full eligibility criteria are still being finalized, the visa is expected to be open to citizens of countries currently allowed entry into at least one GCC state. Tourists who meet security and health requirements, and have adequate travel insurance and financial proof of sustenance, will likely qualify. Crucially, the visa will be issued via a unified digital platform, simplifying the application process. Biometric data may be required for added security. The unified visa is expected to offer both single-entry and multiple-entry options. While final rules are pending, a stay of up to 30 or 60 days per entry is anticipated. Extensions may be possible within the region without exiting the GCC. Travelers holding this visa will be able to enter any of the six GCC states as their first point of entry and travel freely across borders thereafter. Boosting the Gulf’s tourism economy

The GCC states have collectively invested billions in tourism infrastructure as part of their economic diversification strategies. Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, the UAE’s National Tourism Strategy 2031, and Qatar’s post-World Cup travel ambitions are just a few examples. The unified visa could be the linchpin that ties these efforts together. Though the primary focus is on tourism, the unified visa could also benefit business travelers and those transiting through multiple Gulf countries. For instance, someone attending a trade show in Dubai could extend their trip with a visit to Doha or Riyadh without bureaucratic hassle. For globetrotters seeking new horizons and multi-country adventures, the Arabian Gulf just became a lot more accessible—and infinitely more exciting. Topics: Culture, UAE, Dubai, Gulf, Visa, Tourist, GCC