GCC Grand Tours Visa for GCC Residents

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What Is the GCC Unified Visa?

The GCC Grand Tours Visa, also known as the GCC Unified Visa or GCC visa, is a new strategic initiative introduced by the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) to foster regional integration and enhance cross-border tourism among member nations. Introduced in 2023, the visa is expected to be officially adopted by the end of this year. Much like the European Union’s Schengen Visa, this system allows travelers to explore all six GCC countries, including the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Oman, and Bahrain, with a single, streamlined visa. 

Its central aim is to simplify travel formalities, attract more tourists to the region, and stimulate local economies through increased mobility. As tourism surges post-pandemic and the GCC aims to diversify beyond oil revenues, this unified system supports long-term goals such as Vision 2030 and similar national strategies across member states. 

The unified GCC visa is expected to officially roll out by the end of 2025, although pilot programs may begin earlier. The system is expected to include purposes like tourism, visiting family and friends. The visa can be obtained through the streamlined GCC visa application. Two types of visas are offered: a single-country visa and a multiple-country visa. 

Can GCC Residents Apply for the GCC Unified Visa?

In short, the answer is most likely, yes! One of the most exciting aspects of the GCC Unified Visa for GCC Residents is that it isn’t just for tourists from abroad. It will also be available to expatriates already living in GCC nations. This inclusion acknowledges the dynamic demographics of the region, where non-nationals make up a significant portion of the workforce.

However, all applicants must ensure they meet the expected eligibility requirements for the visa application. That includes:

  • Holding a valid residency permit (Iqama, Emirates ID, etc.) from any GCC country.
  • Holding a valid passport that is valid for a minimum of 6 months from the application date.
  • Not being on a watchlist or having an entry ban in any of the GCC member states.

There may also be some profession, salary, or nationality-based criteria for applicants. While complete guidelines haven’t been released, earlier versions of GCC e-visa platforms often used filters such as: 

  • Profession-based filtering: White-collar professions (engineers, doctors, teachers, etc.) may be given easier access
  • Salary threshold: Though not official, it’s speculated that a minimum monthly income (e.g. 4,000 to 8,000 AED or equivalent) may be required
  • Nationality restrictions: Some countries may receive broader access based on diplomatic ties and travel security ratings.

These filters may also apply in the initial rollout phase of the GCC Grand Tours visa.

Required Documents for GCC Residents Applying for the GCC Visa

Before submitting your GCC visa application, be sure to gather the following essential documents. These items demonstrate your eligibility, travel preparedness, and financial stability, all of which ensure a smooth approval process.

Here is a complete list of expected GCC unified visa requirements for GCC residents. The first three items are required:

A valid passport

Passports must be valid for at least 6 months at the time of application. Some countries may also require blank pages for stamping.

A complete application form

All applicants must complete the application form with the relevant personal information, travel details, and the purpose of travel. Applicants should also indicate their choice of a single-country visa or unified visa on the application form.

Personal photographs

Applicants must provide recent passport-style photos meeting the biometric specifications. That typically includes being in color, clear, and presenting your true appearance, and against a white background.

The following are additional documents that may be required for certain applicants depending on their unique situation:

  • Proof of accommodation

    • This is proof of where the applicant will stay while in the GCC. It could be in the form of a hotel booking, a signed rental agreement, or an invitation letter from a resident host in the GCC.

  • Travel itinerary

    • A clear outline of your journey, including booked flights, inter-GCC transport, and intended dates for each country you plan to visit. 

  • Travel insurance

    • A valid policy covering the entire duration of the applicant’s trip. It must include emergency medical coverage and repatriation services.

  • Proof of financial means

    • This could include recent bank statements or financial documents showing the applicant has sufficient funds to support themselves during their stay.

  • Return or onward ticket

    • A confirmed booking for the applicant’s return journey to their country of residence or a flight to a third country outside of the GCC.

Including complete and accurate documentation can significantly improve the success of your GCC Grand Tours visa application. Double-check the requirements before uploading your files via the online application form.

How to Apply for the GCC Unified Visa for GCC Residents

The following is the exact process all applicants will follow. Let’s walk through how to apply for a GCC unified visa for GCC residents using our digital platform:

How to Apply for the GCC Unified Visa for GCC Residents

The following is the exact process all applicants will follow. Let’s walk through how to apply for a GCC unified visa for GCC residents using our digital platform:

1

Complete the online application form

Applicants should complete the online form with all required details, including their full name, passport number, nationality, job title, and residency status.

2

Submit the required documents

Applicants must attach digital copies of their passport, residence ID, photo, and any required proof.

3

Pay the visa fees

Pay the fees securely through the website using a valid credit or debit card.

4

Receive your approved visa

As soon as the application is reviewed and a decision is made, the applicant will receive a decision by email. If approved, even not required, it is a good idea to print a copy of the visa and carry it with them for the duration of their travels in the GCC. When the visa is entirely electronic,  keeping a printed copy can come in handy sometimes.

Visa Validity and Allowed Stay

The validity of the GCC Unified Visa is expected to be 30-90 days. Both single-country and multiple-country visa options are available. The visa is expected to be a multiple-entry visa.

Which GCC Countries Can Be Visited?

The unified visa for GCC countries includes the following nations:

  • United Arab Emirates
  • Saudi Arabia
  • Qatar
  • Kuwait
  • Oman
  • Bahrain

Applicants can choose between:

  • A single-country visa (e.g., GCC visa for the UAE), which allows them to travel to just one of the six listed countries above.
  • A GCC Grand Tour visa, which can be used to explore all six countries.

Note: Travel may be required to start from the visa-issuing country.

Visa Fees & Processing Time

The GCC unified visa fees for GCC residents are estimated to be around $90-130. The processing time for most applications is quite rapid, expected to be between 3 days to a week. Express options for processing may be introduced later on.

Benefits of the GCC Unified Visa for Residents

There are several key advantages for applicants who opt to apply for the GCC Unified Visa:

One visa, 6 destinations

Approved visa holders can travel across the Gulf seamlessly and make the most of their trip to the region. This is especially useful for travelers coming from far destinations.

Simplified application

There is just one online application that can be easily accessed through the GCC Unified Visa Portal. The application process can be completed anywhere, anytime, provided the applicant has a working device and an internet connection, making it highly convenient.

Cost-efficient

It saves applicants money compared to applying for six individual country visas.

Boost short holidays & business travel

It’s the perfect solution for quick regional getaways and business travel where the applicant needs to be in several locations over a short period of time.

Practical Tips for GCC Residents Applying

Applying for the GCC Unified Visa is pretty straightforward, but there are some practical tips to be aware of to make the process easier and more accessible.

  • Double-check your passport and residency validity to make sure they are valid for at least 6 months past the date of application.
  • Visit the GCC Visa website to apply for the GCC Unified Visa for GCC Residents.
  • Apply at least one week in advance to ensure enough time to receive a decision on the application.
  • Keep digital copies ready for QR code visa validation at ports of entry.
  • Avoid overstaying in any country in the GCC. Rules may vary slightly per country, so it’s important to check the regulations before traveling.

FAQ

Yes, they currently do. But once the approved unified GCC tourist visa launches, only one visa will be required to travel around the GCC.

No, the GCC Unified Visa will be an electronic travel visa, not a visa on arrival.

It’s a regional travel visa that allows holders to visit all 6 GCC countries on one visa.

Currently, there is a separate Umrah visa for GCC residents. It may be allowed to perform Umrah on the GCC visa if you obtain the required permits. However, this may not be the case as the regulations become official. Keep an eye on the GCC visa news for the latest updates.

Yes, many countries offer visa-free or visa-on-arrival access based on the applicant’s nationality and GCC residence. The unified visa applies within the GCC only.

Yes, you can apply for the GCC unified visa on the GCC Visa website.