Residents of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries may soon benefit from a single visa system allowing them to travel freely within the region. This move, expected to streamline travel processes, could lead to a surge in tourism and business activities among GCC member states.
Currently, citizens of GCC countries enjoy visa-free travel within the region. The proposed system would extend this privilege to residents, facilitating easier mobility within Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Kuwait, the UAE, Oman, and Qatar.
UAE Economy Minister Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri revealed this development at the Future Hospitality Summit in Abu Dhabi. He emphasized that this initiative could be implemented in the near future.
The potential introduction of a pan-GCC visa is seen as a significant step in boosting tourism in the region. This move aligns with the broader efforts of GCC countries to strengthen their tourism sectors, with destinations like Dubai and Saudi Arabia becoming prominent global hubs.
The introduction of a unified visa system could foster innovation and competition among GCC member states, ultimately benefiting the region’s tourism industry. This development reflects a positive step towards greater integration and ease of travel within the Gulf region.
