The Gulf’s long-discussed GCC unified tourist visa is finally on its way, marking a new era for travel across the region. Dubbed the “GCC Grand Tours Visa,” this Schengen-style system will allow freedom of movement between six Gulf Cooperation Council nations: the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Oman.
The initiative has been years in the making, with tourism ministries across the Gulf working closely to align visa rules, security systems, and digital platforms. For Dubai residents and international visitors alike, it could completely reshape how people experience the region.
What is the GCC Unified Tourist Visa?
The GCC unified tourist visa is designed to simplify travel across the Gulf, allowing eligible visitors to explore all six countries with a single visa application. Similar to the European Schengen model, the visa will eliminate the need for multiple entries or reapplications, making it easier for tourists to travel between cities such as Dubai, Riyadh, Muscat, and Doha in one trip.
Under the plan, applicants will soon be able to apply online through a unified digital portal. The visa will be valid for short-term tourism and family visits, with proposed durations ranging from 30 to 90 days. Applicants may also have the option to choose between single-country or six-country access, depending on their travel plans.
The UAE’s Minister of Economy, Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, has confirmed that a trial phase will begin by the end of 2025, with full implementation expected in 2026.
The Gulf is introducing a Unified Visa
Tourism plays a growing role in the GCC’s post-oil diversification strategies. By introducing the unified visa, the region aims to position itself as a global tourism hub while making it easier for travellers to experience multiple Gulf destinations on a single trip.
The visa also supports the Gulf’s shared vision for regional integration under economic transformation plans like Saudi Vision 2030 and the UAE’s Tourism Strategy 2031. For Dubai, this means stronger connections with neighbouring destinations, creating opportunities for regional tour packages, cross-country events, and increased visitor traffic.
Moreover, it’s a big win for the millions of foreign residents in the UAE who often travel within the Gulf. Once implemented, they will be able to move more freely between GCC states without applying for multiple entry permits.
What Officials Have Said
In November 2025, Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Tourism, Ahmed Al-Khateeb, confirmed that the unified visa will officially launch next year after a successful test phase. He emphasised that the initiative reflects the Gulf’s commitment to enhancing cooperation, security, and visitor experience.
UAE officials echoed this sentiment, describing the visa as a cornerstone for regional tourism growth. Al Marri also noted that it would make “mobility across the GCC much easier for both residents and visitors,” highlighting that residents of one GCC country could travel to another without additional paperwork.
The GCC Secretary-General, Jassem Al-Budaiwi, described the program as “a tangible step toward greater Gulf unity and economic collaboration.”
How the Visa Will Impact Dubai and the UAE
Dubai already stands as one of the world’s most connected tourist destinations, welcoming millions of visitors annually. With the unified visa, the city could become the gateway to Gulf tourism, encouraging travellers to start their journeys in the UAE before exploring neighbouring countries.
The move also aligns with upcoming infrastructure projects like the Etihad Rail passenger service, set to begin operations in 2026. This will make travel within and beyond the UAE faster and more convenient, complementing the unified visa’s rollout.
For Dubai residents, especially expatriates, the visa will offer greater flexibility to explore regional destinations for leisure or cultural experiences. It could also boost regional business tourism, encouraging short-term trips between Gulf capitals.
Current GCC Travel Rules from the UAE
Until the unified visa becomes active, each GCC country maintains separate entry rules. For example:
- UAE citizens can enter Saudi Arabia, Oman, and Bahrain visa-free for up to 90 days.
- Foreign residents in the UAE currently require a visa or eVisa to enter Bahrain or Saudi Arabia.
- Oman offers unsponsored visas to GCC residents working in approved professions.
- Kuwait and Qatar recently eased entry for GCC residents and certain nationalities.
These differing rules can make planning regional trips complicated — a problem the GCC unified tourist visa aims to solve by creating one consistent system for all.
What Travellers Can Expect
While full details are still being finalised, travellers can look forward to:
- One application, six destinations: Apply once, explore freely across the Gulf.
- Lower overall costs: One visa instead of six separate applications.
- Simpler online process: A streamlined digital platform for all applicants.
- Flexible validity: Valid for 30–90 days, ideal for both short and extended trips.
This visa is expected to particularly benefit multi-destination travel, such as a “Dubai–Riyadh–Muscat” route, or cultural itineraries connecting the Gulf’s rich heritage landmarks.
for the Future of GCC Tourism
The GCC unified tourist visa marks a milestone in regional collaboration. It represents a unified tourism identity for the Gulf, encouraging longer stays, shared cultural exchanges, and more integrated economies.
For Dubai, it strengthens its role as the region’s tourism leader — a natural entry point for international visitors looking to experience the best of the Middle East. With easier travel and shared infrastructure, the UAE stands ready to welcome a new wave of regional explorers.
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