Gulf Countries to Launch Unified Tourist Visa by 2026

Six Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries—Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates—are preparing to launch a unified tourist visa similar to Europe’s Schengen system, enabling seamless travel across the region. The system is expected to be rolled out by late 2025 or early 2026.

Referred to as the “Unified Tourist Visa” or “Unified GCC Visa,” the initiative was approved in 2023 and aims to make it significantly easier for international tourists to explore multiple GCC nations in a single trip.

Single Visa for Six Destinations

With the new policy, travelers will no longer need separate visas for each GCC country. Instead, they’ll be able to apply once through a centralized digital portal, granting them access to all six member states.

The visa will be limited to tourism, short visits, and family or friend visits, excluding any work or long-term residency purposes.

Validity and Application Process

While the visa duration is still being finalized, officials indicate it will likely be valid for 30 to 90 days. Although pricing details have yet to be announced, the unified visa is expected to be more affordable than current individual country applications.

The entire application process will be conducted online, requiring users to input their travel plans, country-to-country transitions, and dates of entry.

Required Documents for Application:

• Valid passport

• Biometric photo

• Proof of residence

• Travel insurance

• Financial sufficiency

• Return ticket or exit documentation

EU Also Eases Visa Rules for Turkish Citizens

While the GCC simplifies its entry system, the European Union has introduced a new policy benefitting Turkish nationals. As of July 15, 2025, 25 EU member states will issue multi-entry Schengen visas valid for up to five years to eligible and trusted Turkish residents.