The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) is preparing to introduce the GCC Unified Tourist Visa, known as “GCC Grand Tours,” with a trial launch set for late 2025 and a full rollout to follow. The visa will enable seamless travel across Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Oman, operating similarly to Europe’s Schengen system. GCC Secretary-General Jassim Al-Budaiwi confirmed that final approval is underway, with digital applications expected to open soon.
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This unified visa aims to simplify travel for millions of foreign residents living in the GCC who currently need separate visas for each country. Offering longer validity and reduced costs, the visa will provide options for single-country or six-country access, with stays ranging between 30 and 90 days. UAE Minister of Economy Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri highlighted that this move will empower residents, making documents like the Emirates ID more effective for regional mobility.
Furthermore, the GCC Grand Tours Visa is designed to strengthen tourism and economic ties across the region. It reduces bureaucratic hurdles, lowers expenses, and makes it easier for visitors to experience multiple Gulf destinations in a single trip. The GCC nations are aligning their technological and security systems to ensure a smooth launch, reflecting the commitment discussed during a key meeting in Riyadh in June 2025.
The UAE is also investing in infrastructure projects like the Etihad Rail passenger train, planned for 2026, which will connect its seven emirates. This development will complement the unified visa, making intra-GCC travel even more convenient and attractive. Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia expects the visa to boost its Vision 2030 mega-projects, including Neom, the Red Sea resorts, and AlUla’s cultural oasis, while allowing travellers to combine Saudi visits with Dubai’s luxury hubs or Qatar’s cultural landmarks.
By standardising visa processes, the GCC hopes to position itself as a major global tourism hub. The unified visa will promote cultural exchange, attract investment in the tourism sector, and create opportunities for regional growth. With final application details under review, the initiative signals a significant step toward transforming the Gulf into a premier multi-destination hotspot for international travellers.