Travel across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) member states is about to become significantly easier. A new Unified Tourist Visa, officially known as the GCC Grand Tours Visa, has been approved and is set to launch by late 2025 or early 2026. Once operational, the single-entry permit will allow travelers to visit all six GCC nations — Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates, all on one visa.
What is the Unified GCC Visa?
This regional visa initiative, called the GCC Grand Tours Visa, will serve as a common travel document for short-term visits across the Gulf. Travelers will be able to opt for either a single-country visa or a multi-country version, depending on their plans. While exact validity terms are yet to be finalised, the visa is expected to offer stays ranging from 30 to 90 days. A multiple-entry option is also under consideration.
The new visa framework is specifically designed for tourists and those making short family visits. It will not be applicable for work-related or long-term residency purposes.
The Unified GCC Visa is expected to be a major convenience for international visitors, eliminating the need to apply for separate visas for each member state. This means simplified planning for multi-destination trips, reduced administrative burden, and potentially lower overall travel costs.
Travellers will benefit from a consolidated application system, expected to be hosted on a central online portal. This streamlined process should replace the often complex and varied visa procedures currently required by each country.
Beyond convenience, the move is projected to have a broader economic impact. Tourism, hospitality, transportation, and retail sectors across the GCC are poised to gain from longer stays and increased cross-border movement. It also promises a more immersive cultural experience for visitors, enabling them to explore the distinct traditions, landscapes, and identities of each Gulf nation within a single journey.
How to apply for Unified GCC Visa?
Once launched, applications for the Unified Tourist Visa will be processed entirely online. Applicants will complete a digital form, provide personal and travel information, and choose whether they intend to visit one or multiple GCC countries.
Required documentation is likely to include:
A valid passport
A passport-style photo on a white background
Proof of accommodation
Travel insurance
A recent bank statement
A confirmed return or onward ticket
Visa fees will be payable online using a credit or debit card. Approved visas will be sent electronically via email, and travellers will need to carry a printed copy during their trip.
All visa applications must be submitted and approved in advance. In cases where an application is denied, the traveler will be notified with the reason for rejection and may reapply after addressing the issue. Additional support will also be available through relevant immigration authorities.
The introduction of the GCC Grand Tours Visa represents a unified step toward regional tourism integration. As the Gulf region continues to diversify its economies and invest in visitor infrastructure, this new visa is seen as a catalyst for increased collaboration and mobility across borders.
