Saudi Arabia Expected to Gain Most as Gulf Unified Visa Nears Launch

The Gulf Cooperation Council is preparing to launch a trial phase of the unified tourist visa in the final months of 2025, with full implementation to follow. The unified permit will allow visitors to move freely between Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. 

While all participating countries are expected to gain from the new arrangement, analysts believe Saudi Arabia is likely to emerge as the top beneficiary. 

The Kingdom's large-scale investment in tourism and its status as a religious destination give it a unique edge. Holy cities such as Makkah and Madinah already attract millions of pilgrims annually, and the new visa could encourage extended visits to leisure destinations like AlUla, Diriyah, Neom, and Qiddiya.

Raymond Khoury, a partner at Arthur D. Little in the Middle East, said the new policy could support longer stays and added side trips to cultural attractions. He noted that airports in Riyadh and Jeddah are well-positioned to serve as regional stopover points supported by affordable flights and expanding rail networks.

The timing of the launch aligns with Saudi Arabia’s tourism strategy under Vision 2030. The country aims to welcome 150 million visitors each year by the end of the decade and is building major attractions along the Red Sea and in other parts of the Kingdom. 

Vijay Valecha of Century Financial said Saudi Arabia’s digital visa services, large territory, and global event hosting are helping position it as a major travel destination in the region.

The Kingdom’s location in the heart of the Arabian Peninsula further adds to its appeal. With direct links to neighboring Gulf states and access to the Red Sea, it offers a logical starting point for multi-country itineraries and even extended routes into Africa.

To make the GCC visa work, a strong infrastructure will be essential. Regional plans include the GCC Railway and upgraded border processes. Within Saudi Arabia, expansion efforts are already underway. King Salman International Airport is targeting 120 million passengers by 2030, and Riyadh Air is expected to begin flights soon. 

Airports in Dammam, Riyadh, and Jeddah are also seeing upgrades, along with an increase in low-cost carrier operations.

The expected economic boost will likely reach sectors beyond tourism. Growth in hospitality, transport, and entertainment is anticipated, while smoother regional mobility may benefit trade hiring and business travel.