RIYADH — The long-anticipated unified Gulf visa is expected to launch next year, marking a landmark achievement in the region’s journey toward integrated tourism and seamless cross-border travel. The announcement was made by Saudi Minister of Tourism Ahmed Al-Khateeb, who confirmed that the initiative four years in the making has reached its final implementation stage following extensive coordination among GCC member states.

Speaking at the Gulf Gateway Investment Forum in Manama, Al-Khateeb described the unified visa as a “historic milestone” that will redefine tourism mobility across the Gulf. “The Gulf Cooperation Council countries are witnessing a historic transformation in their tourism sectors, with tourism emerging as a key economic pillar alongside oil and trade,” he said, highlighting the region’s shared strengths of cultural depth, modern infrastructure, and a stable, secure environment.

Officially named the GCC Grand Tours Visa, the new system will enable travellers to visit all six member countries — the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Oman through a single application process. The visa is modelled on the European Schengen system, aimed at enhancing regional connectivity and positioning the Gulf as one of the world’s most attractive tourism and investment destinations.

The initiative was formally endorsed in November 2023, during the meeting of GCC interior ministers in Oman, and represents one of the most ambitious steps yet toward realizing the vision of a fully integrated Gulf economy and shared tourism ecosystem.