Travelling across the Gulf will soon be much easier. The GCC Grand Tours Visa—also referred to as the Unified Tourist Visa—has been officially approved, marking a significant shift in how short-term travel works across Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi ArabiaThe. United Arab Emirates. Once the visa becomes available, travelers will be able to visit all six GCC nations with a single passport.
What is a Unified GCC Visa
The Unified GCC Visa (also known as GCC Grand Tours Visa, or Unified Tourist Visa) is a brand new travel document that allows you to enter all six Gulf Cooperation Council member states. The traveler will have the option to choose between a one-country visa and a multicountry option, based on their itinerary. The system is intended for short-term trips, family travel and tourism. It does not allow for long-term or employment stays.
Although the validity period of the visa has not been confirmed yet, it is expected that it will range between 30 and 90 days. Although a multiple entry option has been discussed by authorities, the final terms and conditions have not yet been outlined.
What this means to travelers in the region
The unified Visa eliminates the requirement for travelers to obtain visas separately for each country. This makes it easier for them to plan and execute. multi-country trips Across the Gulf. Single-entry reduces administrative burden and simplifies logistics, whether it’s a visit for a weekend or an itinerary that includes several destinations.
It is expected that the visa will make travel easier by consolidating paperwork. Applicants can use a single portal instead of navigating through different processes to each country. The visa also opens up the possibility of more cost-effective travelThe final price structure has not been determined yet. This new system offers greater convenience and flexibility for those who wish to visit more than one destination within the region.
The visa will boost regional tourism, and sectors like hospitality, transportation and retail, by encouraging longer stay and greater movement across borders. This visa could also boost cultural exchanges as visitors gain a better understanding of the Gulf region’s different identities, landscapes and customs.
How to apply
The application process is completed online via an official portal once the system has been launched. The first step is to fill out an online form, including personal details, travel dates, intended itinerary and whether the applicant wishes to enter a single GCC state or several. After that, they must upload all required documents. valid passportA passport-style photograph with a background of white, proof that you have a place to stay, travel insurance and a recent bank account statement.
Visa fees are paid via a secure platform online with a debit or a credit card. The visa will be sent electronically to the applicant via email once the application has passed review and approval. The printed version will need to be carried by the traveler throughout their trip.
Before traveling, all applications must be approved and submitted online. Travelers will be informed if their application has been rejected. Reapplication is usually possible after the issues are resolved or if further assistance is needed. immigration authority.
The original version of this article appeared on Condé Nast Traveller Middle East.
