GCC to Launch Single Tourist Visa in 2025 – Travel Across 6 Gulf Countries

The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) is preparing to roll out its long-awaited unified tourist visa in the last quarter of 2025, officials have confirmed. The initiative, often compared to the Schengen visa system, will allow travelers to move freely across all six Gulf states — UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain, Oman, and Kuwait 🌍.

A Major Step for Regional Tourism

Announced by Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, UAE Minister of Economy and Tourism and Chairman of the Emirates Tourism Council, the project is being described as a “strategic milestone” for the region.

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The visa, officially called the GCC Grand Tourist Visa, will be introduced in phases, with a pilot program starting later this year, followed by full implementation in the near future ✈️.

Cost and Duration Yet to Be Finalized

While the price and validity period of the visa have not been announced, industry experts believe it will significantly:

• Boost cross-border travel

• Create thousands of new jobs

• Add to the region’s GDP growth

• Encourage religious and leisure tourism

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Tourism Impact Across the Gulf

The GCC expects strong benefits for all six member nations, though the UAE and Saudi Arabia are projected to attract the largest share of international visitors.

📊 Tourism Data (2024)

• UAE welcomed 3.3 million tourists from GCC nations.

• Saudi Arabia led the list with 1.9 million visitors to the UAE.

• Other top contributors: Oman (777,000), Kuwait (381,000), Bahrain (123,000), Qatar (93,000).

Rapid Growth in the Sector

By mid-September 2025, the UAE had issued 39,546 new commercial licenses related to tourism, aviation, hospitality, and travel technology — marking a 275% increase compared to 2020 📈.

This growth highlights why the single visa system could become a game-changer for the Gulf’s tourism industry.

Key Takeaways

• Launch Timeline: Pilot phase begins Q4 2025.

• Visa Name: GCC Grand Tourist Visa.

• Coverage: UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain, Oman, Kuwait.

• Expected Benefits: Easier travel, stronger economy, more jobs, and higher tourist inflows.

Faqs

1. When will the GCC tourist visa launch?
In the last quarter of 2025 (pilot phase).

2. Which countries are included?
UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain, Oman, and Kuwait.

3. What is the visa called?
GCC Grand Tourist Visa.

4. Has the cost been announced?
No, details on fees and duration are still pending.

5. Why is it compared to Schengen?
Because it allows free movement across multiple countries.

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