In a major move to boost tourism and regional connectivity, the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) is preparing to launch the GCC Grand Tours Visa, a single-entry tourist visa that will allow travellers to visit all six Gulf states with just one permit.

This new visa, expected to launch by late 2025 or early 2026, promises to transform tourism in the region, making multi-country Gulf adventures more accessible than ever before.

Visa Confirmed by GCC Leadership

GCC Secretary General Jassem Al Budaiwi confirmed the unified visa, calling it a major step toward deeper regional cooperation. He said the initiative aims to modernise travel and boost tourism across the Gulf.

In June 2025, the initiative, also confirmed by the UAE Minister of Economy Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, is now in its final stages. Implementation is underway through coordination between the Ministry of Interior and various national authorities.

What Is the GCC Grand Tours Visa?

The GCC Grand Tours Visa, also known simply as the GCC Visa, is a unified tourist visa developed by the six Gulf countries:

• United Arab Emirates (UAE)
• Saudi Arabia
• Qatar
• Bahrain
• Kuwait
• Oman

Modelled after the EU’s Schengen Visa, this new visa system aims to simplify border crossings and promote the Gulf as a multi-country travel destination. It was approved during a GCC interior ministers’ meeting in Oman in November 2023.

Key Features of the GCC Visa

Here’s what travellers can expect from the upcoming unified visa:

• Visit all six GCC countries using a single visa
• Validity ranging between 30 and 90 days
• Designed for tourism and family visits only
• Fully online application process for convenience
• Lower cost and faster processing than applying for separate national visas
• Advanced security tech to meet global standards

According to GCC Secretary General Jassem Al Budaiwi, the visa represents a collective effort to strengthen regional cooperation, modernise travel systems, and stimulate economic growth through tourism.

What You’ll Need to Apply

To be eligible for the GCC Grand Tours Visa, travellers must prepare the following:

• 🛂 Passport with at least 6 months’ validity
• 🖼️ Recent passport-sized photo
• 🏨 Hotel booking or invitation letter from a resident host
• 💳 Proof of funds (such as a bank statement)
• 🛫 Return or onward flight ticket
• 🛡️ Valid travel insurance

The visa will be applied for via an official online portal (yet to be launched). Once approved, the visa will be sent via email and can either be printed or presented digitally upon arrival.

When Will the GCC Tourist Visa Be Available?

While there’s no official launch date yet, officials confirm that the visa system is in its final stages of development. Its launch is expected soon, offering tourists a more connected and flexible way to experience the Gulf.

Keep an eye on official GCC announcements for the portal launch and go-live date.

Security and Technology

The new system is being designed to meet global security standards and will leverage the latest technology for efficient processing and verification. This ensures both safety and convenience for travellers and member states alike.

Why the Unified Visa Matters

The GCC Grand Tours Visa is more than just a travel document; it’s a strategic move to boost tourism, economic integration, and cultural exchange within the Gulf. By simplifying cross-border travel, the visa is set to:

• Increase tourist arrivals by making multi-country itineraries easier to plan
• Reduce costs and paperwork for international travellers
• Support regional businesses in hospitality, retail, and transport
• Encourage longer stays and deeper exploration of the Gulf’s diverse attractions

Final Thoughts

The GCC Grand Tours Visa is a bold step toward making the Gulf region a unified travel destination. With streamlined applications, shared security protocols, and access to diverse cultures and landscapes, the visa is set to transform tourism in the Middle East.

Stay tuned for official updates and be ready to explore the Gulf like never before, all with one visa.