The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) is set to launch the GCC Grand Tours Visa, a single-entry tourist visa allowing seamless travel across all six Gulf nations. This transformative initiative, expected by late 2025 or early 2026, aims to elevate tourism and regional connectivity.
Modeled after the EU’s Schengen Visa, the GCC Visa simplifies cross-border travel for tourists visiting the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Oman. By reducing bureaucratic hurdles, it positions the Gulf as a unified, must-visit travel destination.
GCC Secretary General Jassem Al Budaiwi has hailed the visa as a pivotal step toward deeper regional cooperation. He emphasized its role in modernizing travel systems and boosting economic growth through tourism.
Confirmed by UAE Minister of Economy Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri in June 2025, the visa is in its final development stages. Coordination between the Ministry of Interior and national authorities ensures a smooth rollout.
The GCC Grand Tours Visa offers a validity period of 30 to 90 days, catering exclusively to tourists and family visitors. Its fully online application process promises convenience, lower costs, and faster processing compared to individual national visas.
Travelers can expect an efficient, secure system leveraging advanced technology to meet global standards. This ensures both safety for GCC countries and a hassle-free experience for visitors.
To apply, travelers need a passport valid for at least six months, a recent photo, a hotel booking or invitation letter, proof of funds, a return ticket, and valid travel insurance. Applications will be submitted via an official online portal, with approved visas delivered digitally or printable via email.
While no exact launch date is confirmed, the visa system is nearing completion, promising a more connected Gulf travel experience. Tourists should monitor official GCC announcements for updates on the portal launch and go-live date.
The unified visa is a strategic move to boost tourist arrivals by simplifying multi-country itineraries. It encourages longer stays, deeper cultural exploration, and increased spending in the hospitality, retail, and transport sectors.
By fostering economic integration and cultural exchange, the GCC Grand Tours Visa redefines the Gulf as a dynamic, accessible travel hub. Prepare to explore the region’s diverse landscapes and rich heritage with unparalleled ease in 2025.
