Gulf Tourist Visa Initiative to Begin Pilot Phase in Q4 2025

The Gulf Cooperation Council’s long-anticipated unified tourist visa is set to begin its pilot phase in the fourth quarter of 2025, according to Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri, UAE Minister of Economy and Tourism and Chairman of the Emirates Tourism Council. 

Speaking to UAE state media, the minister confirmed that the trial launch of the visa, also known as the “GCC Grand Tourist Visa,” will mark a major step forward in regional tourism integration. However, no specific date has been announced yet.

The visa is modeled on a Schengen-style system that will allow travelers to move freely between all six GCC countries, namely the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Qatar, Oman, and Kuwait, on a single permit. 

Once fully implemented, the visa is expected to reshape how foreign tourists explore the region by simplifying cross-border travel and highlighting the Gulf’s diverse offerings as one cohesive destination.

Al Marri described the initiative as a “strategic shift” that reflects deeper cooperation among GCC member states. He said it will not only improve access for international visitors but also raise the profile of the region’s cultural, entertainment, and natural assets. 

According to the minister, the unified visa will support efforts to position the Gulf as a globally competitive hub for tourism and hospitality.

While details such as visa fees and permitted duration of stay are yet to be finalized, the broader framework signals growing momentum toward a streamlined regional tourism strategy. The full rollout of the visa system is expected to follow after the pilot phase, though timelines for broader implementation remain under discussion.