The plan aims to make regional travel as easy as the Schengen visa does in Europe.

According to reports, UAE’s Minister of Economy and Tourism and Chairman of the Emirates Tourism Council, Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, revealed that the new initiative, known as the “GCC Grand Tours Visa,” will be launched in late 2025 under a pilot phase before full implementation.

Officials from the Emirates Tourism Council said that all necessary administrative and digital systems are being finalized to ensure smooth coordination between the six member countries. The visa process will be fully digital, allowing travelers to apply and receive approvals online.

Once operational, the unified visa will enable both international tourists and GCC residents to move freely across the six nations without the need for multiple travel permits. The visa is expected to allow stays ranging from 30 to 90 days, opening the door for longer, multi-destination holidays across the Gulf.

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Tourism experts believe the initiative will boost regional cooperation, simplify travel, and significantly increase tourist inflows, making the Gulf one of the most accessible and attractive destinations in the world.

The upcoming GCC visa marks a turning point for tourism in the Middle East. By removing travel barriers, Gulf nations aim to strengthen regional unity and attract global visitors. If executed successfully, this visa could transform the Gulf into a connected tourism hub, giving travelers one pass to explore six vibrant destinations.