TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Tourists who wish to visit the Gulf countries will be able to travel with a single-entry visa. The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) is launching a new single-entry visa that will allow tourists to travel freely across its six member countries, including the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Oman.
Currently, tourists are required to apply for separate visas for each country. However, with this new system, non-GCC citizens can choose to apply for a single-country visa or a multi-country Gulf visa.
Planned since 2023
This visa was approved at a meeting of GCC interior ministers in Oman in November 2023. GCC Secretary-General Jassem Al Budaiwi stated that this visa will help modernize travel in the region and will also bring more economic benefits through increased tourism.
"The unified visa reflects the vision of our leaders to strengthen integration and cooperation," he said, as quoted from India Today.
The unified tourist visa will only be available for leisure and family visits. It is estimated to be valid for 30 to 90 days. Travelers can choose between access to one country or several countries.
How to apply for the visa
Citing Euronews, although the process has not yet been announced, visa applications will be submitted through an official online portal. The required fees for obtaining the visa have also not been disclosed. After the program launches, travelers will apply for the visa through a designated portal. Travelers need to provide personal information and details of their trip, including the purpose of the visit, travel dates, and planned travel details, such as inter-country transportation details.
They will then be asked to choose a visa for one country or several Gulf countries. After that, they will upload various documents, which may include a copy of a valid passport, passport-style photos, proof of accommodation, travel insurance, proof of sufficient funds to finance the trip, and confirmed return or onward tickets to non-GCC destinations. Once approved, the visa will be issued via email, but travelers are also expected to carry a printed copy during their journey.
The Unified Tourist Visa is expected to be launched by the end of 2025 or early 2026. This new system is expected to be a cost-effective alternative for those who want to visit all member countries.
Jassem Al Budaiwi added that this system will use the latest technology and will comply with global security standards. "Involved parties are keen on keeping up with the latest technologies, as well as growing and rapid global security demands," he said.
Editor's Choice: List of the World's Strongest Passports July 2025
Click here to get the latest news updates from Tempo on Google News
8 Must-Visit Tourist Attractions in Guangzhou, from Nature to History
1 menit lalu
Travelers can experience a unique blend of cultural heritage, urban development, and captivating natural scenery in Guangzhou.
Indonesia Launches Trial of Integrated Passenger Declaration System at Soekarno-Hatta Airport
54 menit lalu
The government is conducting a trial of the integrated international passenger declaration system, All Indonesia, at Soekarno-Hatta Airport on Thursday, July 24, 2025.
Multiple Countries Issue Travel Warnings for Thailand and Cambodia
5 jam lalu
The conflict between Thailand and Cambodia at the border has not only impacted the armed forces of both countries, but also civilians and tourists.
World's 10 Best Airlines in 2025, According to Skytrax Awards
8 jam lalu
Qatar Airways was named World's Best Airline at the 2025 Skytrax Awards, with Singapore Airlines and Cathay Pacific ranking second and third.
Greece Imposes Extra Fee for Incoming Cruise Ship Travelers
1 hari lalu
Tourists disembarking from cruise ships in Greece will now be required to pay an additional fee ranging from one to 20 euros.
Thailand's Maya Bay to Temporarily Close Starting August 1
3 hari lalu
Maya Bay is famous for its towering limestone cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and stunning coral reefs.
6 Tips for Using Public Transportation When Traveling Abroad
3 hari lalu
Traveling with public transportation in other cities, especially abroad, can be challenging. However, it can be managed with thorough preparation
Death Toll in Vietnam Rises to 37 After Tourist Boat Capsizes
4 hari lalu
Rescuers were desperately searching for 5 people still missing on Sunday, July 20, 2025, after 37 people died when a boat capsized off one of Vietnam.
Tourist Boat Capsizes in Vietnam, Killing 34
4 hari lalu
A tourist boat carrying families around Ha Long Bay, Vietnam, capsized and sank due to a storm on Saturday evening.
China Introduces Special Visa for ASEAN Businesspeople
5 hari lalu
ASEAN Secretary-General Kao Kim Hourn confirmed China's introduction of this new visa policy for business travelers from ASEAN countries.
