Gulf countries, including the UAE, are considering issuing a single-visa system to enable residents as well as tourists to travel freely among each territory. UAE Minister of Economy Abdulla Bin Touq Al Marri said the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), comprising six countries, is contemplating the implementation of a Schengen-style unified visa system for member states. This new system could be introduced in the near future. Currently, visa-free travel within the GCC is limited to citizens of member countries, including the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, and Qatar. Expats living in these nations are required to apply for visas separately when visiting other member states, although some nationalities may enjoy visa-free facility or visa-on-arrival privileges.

 Earlier this year, a minister from Bahrain had revealed plans for a pan-GCC “Schengen-style” visa for tourists. During the Arabian Travel Market, Fatima Al Sairafi mentioned that ministerial-level discussions were underway to implement this unified visa system, which is expected to be launched in the near future. During the same panel discussion, a representative from the UAE Ministry of Economy highlighted that this unified visa system would offer tourists the opportunity to visit multiple countries within the GCC without facing restrictions, all under a single, streamlined package.

 Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)