GCC Single Tourist Visa: Everything You Need to Know

Travelling across the Gulf is about to get a lot easier with the official approval of the  GCC single tourist visa. This unified visa has been officially approved, it has not yet been implemented. Once it is enforced, it will allow tourists to visit all six GCC countries with just one visa, eliminating the need for separate applications. 

This initiative aims to simplify travel and boost tourism in the region. UAE Minister of Economy Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri and Oman’s Salem bin Mohammed Al Mahrooq have both highlighted its potential to attract international visitors and showcase the Gulf's diverse attractions.

Keep scrolling to understand more about this tourist visa!

What is a GCC Single Tourist Visa? 

The GCC single tourist visa, or unified tourist visa, is an initiative to simplify travel within the 6 Gulf countries. Approved in 2023 and expected to be launched soon, it will eliminate the need to apply for separate visas allowing visa holders to travel across the Gulf countries, including:  

• United Arab Emirates
• Saudi Arabia
• Qatar
• Bahrain
• Kuwait
• Oman 

Similar to the Schengen visa used across Europe, this visa will allow non-GCC nationals to enter and travel freely among the participating countries for tourism and family visits. 

Why Does the GCC Tourist Visa Matter to the UAE Residents?

The GCC Tourist Visa brings significant benefits to UAE residents, making regional travel easier, more affordable, and more flexible. Here’s why it matters:

Simplified Travel
Currently, UAE residents must apply for separate visas when visiting neighboring GCC countries like Saudi Arabia, Qatar, or Oman. The unified GCC tourist visa eliminates this hassle, allowing you to travel across all six Gulf nations with just one visa.

Cost Savings
Instead of paying for multiple visas, UAE residents will only need to pay for one, significantly reducing travel costs. This makes regional exploration more affordable, whether for a vacation or family visit.

Convenience and Flexibility
The single visa makes planning trips across the Gulf easier. Whether for leisure, business, or family gatherings, you no longer have to worry about multiple applications, documents, or long wait times for approval.

Boosts Regional Tourism

The unified visa also promotes greater regional tourism, offering residents the chance to explore the diverse cultures, landscapes, and attractions across the Gulf with greater ease.

Enhanced Opportunities for Expats
Many expats in the UAE do not have automatic visa access to other GCC countries. This visa provides a simple solution, expanding travel opportunities for residents who wish to visit family or explore neighboring nations.

Key Features of GCC Single Tourist Visa

While the final details of the visa are yet to be confirmed, here are some of the key features we can expect:

🔵This visa will grant entry to all six GCC nations

🔵It’ll be valid for tourism and family visits, not for work or business purposes

🔵The entire process is expected to be fully digital

🔵This visa may be valid for 30 to 90 days

🔵May be allowed to choose between a single country's or multiple countries' access

The introduction of this visa scheme is expected to reduce paperwork and offer significant savings on visa application fees. 

Documents You May Need for GCC Grand Tours Visa

Here is the list of documents that you are likely to provide while applying for a GCC tourist visa:

✅Complete the online application form

✅Valid passport with at least 6 months of validity 

✅A recent passport-size photograph

✅Proof of accommodation, such as hotel bookings and more

✅Proof of sufficient funds, such as recent bank statements

✅Travel insurance covering medical emergencies

✅A confirmed return or onward flight ticket

✍️Note: While the final list of documents may vary, complete information is yet to be released. 

How to Apply for GCC Visit Visa Once It Launches? 

Once the visa system is launched, travellers will be able to apply through an official online portal. The process will likely include the following steps:

➡️Visit the designated GCC visa website (to be announced)

➡️Select your visa type (single-country or multi-country)

➡️Fill out your personal and travel details in the form 

➡️Upload the required documents

➡️Pay the visa fee online

➡️Receive your e-visa by email

✍️Note: 

• Travellers will be advised to carry a printed or digital copy of the e-visa during their journey. 
• It’s not announced whether the visa will be available on arrival or not, so it’s good to get a pre-approval before travelling. 

How Much Will a GCC Single Tourist Visa Cost? 

Though exact figures have not been released, the unified visa is expected to be more cost-effective than applying for six separate visas.

GCC Visit Visa Processing Time 

Visa processing times have not been confirmed yet, but are expected to be relatively fast due to the digital process or online application. Typically, processing is anticipated to take between 5 to 10 business days, though this may vary based on nationality and peak travel seasons.

Final Thoughts 

The GCC Grand Tours Visa is set to redefine travel for UAE residents and visitors to the region. With a single visa granting access to all six Gulf countries, it offers a convenient and cost-effective way to explore the rich diversity of the GCC. 

No more multiple applications or complex paperwork, just one simple process for a seamless travel experience. Whether it’s for a short getaway, a family visit, or a multi-country holiday, this GCC visit visa opens the door to new possibilities across the Gulf. 

Stay tuned to be aware of more official updates related to this visa!