Imagine landing in Dubai, catching a Formula 1 race in Bahrain, wandering a Qatari art museum, and watching the sunset over Oman’s mountains, all on a single visa.
That kind of seamless Gulf experience is about to become a reality. The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) has just approved a unified tourist visa that will let international travelers visit six Gulf countries, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman, Bahrain, and Kuwait—under one streamlined entry.
Inspired by Europe’s Schengen Zone, the new visa is expected to launch later this year, and it’s poised to change how millions travel across the Middle East.
From globe-trotting tourists to business travelers and Gulf-based expats planning regional escapes, this game-changing visa is designed to simplify and supercharge your travel plans. Here’s what you need to know.
What Is the GCC Unified Tourist Visa?
The new GCC unified tourist visa allows international travelers to enter any one of six Gulf countries, United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Oman, and move freely between them without needing separate entry permits.
It’s modeled after Europe’s Schengen visa, which grants access to multiple countries on a single document. The goal? Streamlined travel, simplified planning, and stronger regional tourism.
Once launched, this visa will eliminate the need for multiple applications and unlock the Gulf as a multi-stop destination, all under one approval.
When Will It Launch?
The unified visa was officially approved by GCC ministers in June 2025, with rollout expected by the end of the year. While an exact launch date hasn’t been announced, officials say implementation is imminent.
A centralized online application system is currently in development. Once live, it will serve as the primary portal for travelers to apply for the unified visa, check their eligibility, submit required documents, and track application status—all in one place.
Side-by-Side: GCC Unified Visa vs. Schengen Visa
The new GCC visa draws clear inspiration from the European Union’s Schengen system. Here’s how the two compare across key features:
| Feature | GCC Tourist Visa (2025) | EU Schengen Visa |
|---|---|---|
| Countries Covered | 6 (UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain, Oman, Kuwait) | 27 (EU/EEA states) |
| Single Visa Entry | Yes | Yes |
| Travel Flexibility | Free movement across member countries | Free movement across member countries |
| Duration of Stay | TBD (Expected 30–90 days) | Up to 90 days within any 180-day period |
| Application Process | Centralized online portal (upcoming) | Embassy, consulate, or third-party center |
| Cost | TBD | ~€80 (approx. $85 USD) |
| Launch Timeline | Late 2025 | In effect since 1995 |
How Will It Work?
While official guidelines are still being finalized, early details suggest a streamlined, traveler-friendly process:
- Apply once: Travelers will use a single online platform to submit their application, pay fees, and upload documents.
- Enter anywhere: The visa will allow entry through any of the six participating countries.
- Move freely: Once inside the region, visitors can cross borders without additional permits.
Expected Requirements
- A passport valid for at least six months
- Travel insurance covering the GCC region
- A standard visa fee (amount to be confirmed)
- Purpose of visit limited to tourism or short-term stays
Length of Stay
Exact durations are still under review, but most observers expect a validity period of 30 to 90 days, aligning with existing tourist visas in the region.
This setup is designed for flexibility, ideal for multi-country tours, event-based travel, or regional exploration without bureaucratic roadblocks.
Regional Impacts: What This Means for Expats and Businesses
The benefits of the GCC unified visa go beyond tourism. For expatriates, business travelers, and regional companies, the new system promises broader access and fewer administrative barriers.
For Expats
Residents of one GCC country often travel regionally to visit family, attend events, or explore neighboring cultures. The unified visa will simplify weekend getaways or regional holidays without the need to apply for multiple entry permits.
For Business Travelers
With increasing cross-border economic activity, especially in sectors like construction, finance, and tech, the unified visa could save time and cost for professionals attending meetings, expos, or site visits across the region.
For Regional Employers
Companies operating in more than one Gulf state will gain logistical flexibility when relocating staff or coordinating short-term assignments. The unified visa could also encourage more inter-GCC partnerships and talent mobility.
By opening borders and reducing red tape, the policy positions the Gulf as a more integrated economic and travel zone, similar in intent to the European Union’s approach to labor and tourism mobility.
Quick Guide: GCC Country Highlights
With the new unified visa, travelers can experience the full diversity of the Gulf—from cutting-edge cities to cultural landmarks and natural wonders. Here’s what each destination has to offer:
United Arab Emirates
The UAE is a tourism powerhouse known for luxury shopping, towering skyscrapers, and iconic attractions like the Burj Khalifa and Louvre Abu Dhabi. Dubai and Abu Dhabi offer a mix of modern entertainment and cultural depth that appeals to travelers of all kinds.
Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia is rapidly opening its doors to global tourism, showcasing ancient heritage sites, Red Sea resorts, and ambitious mega-projects. Visitors can explore AlUla, Riyadh, and Jeddah—or, for Muslims, take part in religious pilgrimages to Mecca and Medina.
Qatar
Qatar combines tradition and innovation, with standout architecture, cultural museums, and global events in Doha. The country gained international attention during the FIFA World Cup and continues to invest heavily in tourism infrastructure.
Oman
Known for its natural beauty and historic charm, Oman offers mountains, desert landscapes, and serene coastlines. Highlights include Muscat’s old souks, Nizwa Fort, and off-the-beaten-path adventures in the Wahiba Sands.
Bahrain
Bahrain blends ancient history with a lively urban vibe, making it ideal for short cultural getaways. Manama features bustling souks, a Formula 1 track, and a deep maritime heritage.
Kuwait
Kuwait provides a quieter, more traditional Gulf experience focused on local culture and hospitality. Visitors can explore coastal promenades, museums, and historic sites in a more understated setting.
Final Thoughts
The GCC unified tourist visa is more than a convenience—it’s a strategic move to make the Gulf region more connected, competitive, and accessible. As the launch approaches, travelers, businesses, and regional planners alike should prepare to take full advantage of a policy designed to simplify movement and unlock new opportunities across six dynamic destinations.