GCC Grand Tours Visa: One Visa for Six Gulf States

The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) is preparing to launch a landmark unified tourist visa that will allow travelers to visit all six member states—Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE—with a single permit. The initiative, expected to roll out by the end of 2025, is designed to streamline regional tourism and enhance economic cooperation.

Approved by GCC interior ministers in 2023, the visa—dubbed the “GCC Grand Tours” visa—aims to function similarly to the Schengen visa in Europe, enabling seamless travel across participating countries without requiring multiple visa applications.

Key Features:

• Single visa valid for travel to all six GCC nations.
• Online application process expected.
• Visa validity likely between 30–90 days.
• Open to tourists and those visiting family or friends.

The GCC Secretary-General, Jassem Al Budaiwi, confirmed that final preparations are underway, including digital coordination and border management systems.

This unified visa is part of the GCC’s broader strategy to diversify its economy, reduce dependence on oil, and promote tourism as a major growth sector. Experts believe the visa will also boost inter-Gulf collaboration and attract more international visitors.