GCC Unified Tourist Visa: What Is It and What Does It Mean For Your Travel Plans?
Unlocking a wealth of tourism opportunities in the region
Inspired by the European Schengen Visa, which allows people to move freely throughout much of the continent, the newly-approved GCC Unified Tourist Visa will allow freedom of movement between residents in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain, Oman and Kuwait.
This means that residents of the GCC will be able to enter multiple Gulf countries using only one visa – streamlining the process of internal travel.
The impending travel document was approved late last year after a unanimous vote by ministers of the Gulf Cooperation Council at their 40th meeting in Muscat, Oman. The visa aims to bolster tourism within the region and strengthen economic ties between each nation.
While visa-free travel is currently possible for citizens of GCC countries, the Unified Tourist Visa is set to apply to all non-nationals living in the region.
Below, Bazaar Arabia shares everything we know so far about the GCC Unified Tourist Visa.
When will the GCC Unified Tourist Visa be available?
While no official date has been announced, the new visa is said to be rolled out as early as this year or in 2025.
How to apply for the GCC Unified Tourist Visa
Individuals can easily apply for the GCC Unified Tourist Visa either through an embassy or a dedicated online platform. No paper forms or in-person visits are required.
What are the rules for application?
To qualify for the GCC Unified Tourist Visa, applicants must be a citizen, resident, or tourist in one of the six Gulf countries. They also need to possess a passport with no less than 6-months validity.
What documents are required to apply for the GCC Unified Tourist Visa?
To successfully a submit an application for the Unified Tourist Visa, the following documents are required:
- A copy of a valid passport
- Two recent personal photographs for documentation
- Cooperation Council Unified Visa application form
- Proof of hotel reservation or copy of a return plane ticket
How long will the visa be valid?
The GCC Unified Tourist Visa will have multiple duration options. Applicants can choose from a 30 day single-entry visa to 60-day multiple-entry visa. Other duration options will also potentially be released at a later stage.
How much will the GCC Unified Tourist Visa Cost?
Currently, the GCC Unified Tourist Visa costs approximately, Dhs 367.24.