In a significant development for Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) member states, plans are underway to introduce a unified visa system that would enable residents to travel freely within the GCC bloc. UAE Minister of Economy, Abdulla Bin Touq Al Marri, recently shared insights into this potential game-changing initiative.
Current Visa Landscape
At present, GCC citizens enjoy the privilege of visa-free travel within the council's six member states: the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, and Qatar. However, for most expatriates residing in these countries, entering other member states entails navigating a complex web of visa requirements.
Expatriates in GCC nations must obtain separate visas when travelling to other member states. While some nationalities may benefit from visa-free or visa-on-arrival privileges, the majority face administrative hurdles when crossing borders within the GCC.
The Push for a Unified Visa System
Abdulla Bin Touq Al Marri, speaking at the Future Hospitality Summit in Abu Dhabi, indicated that a single visa system for GCC residents could be introduced "very soon." This proposal has the potential to revolutionize intra-GCC travel by simplifying the visa process for residents and tourists alike.
Echoes of a "Schengen-Style" Visa
This move towards a unified visa system aligns with earlier discussions within the GCC. Bahrain's tourism minister had previously unveiled plans for a GCC-wide "Schengen-style" visa for tourists. Fatima Al Sairafi, speaking at the Arabian Travel Market, indicated that ministerial-level talks were in progress, with intentions to launch the unified visa system in the near future.
A Boost for Tourism and Convenience
The introduction of a single visa system in the GCC could significantly boost tourism by allowing travellers to explore multiple member states seamlessly. This streamlined approach is expected to eliminate the complications associated with multiple visa applications, making the GCC region an even more attractive destination for tourists and residents alike.
Stay tuned for further developments on this transformative initiative that promises to reshape the GCC's travel landscape.
Policybazaar UAE: Helping you navigate the wilderness of the insurance world!
Written by: Tashika Chopra
- Latest News & Update
12 Jun 2024Blue is the New Green - UAE’s 10-Year Reward for Environmentalists!Discover how the UAE rewards environmentalists with a 10-year plan to make blue the new green. Learn more on our website today.
03 Dec 2024RFeeling Guilty About Vacationing? Here Are 6 Steps to a Guilt-Free GetawayAsk yourself, when was the last time you truly unwinded and enjoyed a vacation? Despite having a good allocation of vacation days, you may find yourself hesitating to use them.
03 Dec 2024UAE Staycations: Your Perfect Getaways for Eid al-Fitr 2024!Eid al-Fitr has a cultural and religious significance for the Muslim community across the world. It signifies the completion of a month-long period of fasting.
21 Mar 2024Emirati Passports Get a Major Upgrade - Check ValidityContinue reading this article to know about Exciting news for Emirati citizens. UAE has taken a significant step by extending the validity of its passports. Read more.
21 Mar 2024GCC eyes Schengen Visa Waiver for Gulf CitizensContinue reading this ambitious initiative, spearheaded by GCC Secretary General which could mark a new chapter in the relationship.
12 Mar 2024Non-Residency Visas Options for UAE ExpatriatesContinue reading to discover all 6 primary non-work residency visas for expatriates, catering to different needs without requiring a work permit.
