Travel Across Six Gulf Countries with One Schengen-Style Visa

Exploring the Gulf just got easier. Tourists can now visit Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Oman with a single unified visa, simplifying cross-border travel across the region. This Schengen-style visa system removes the hassle of applying for multiple visas, offering travelers seamless access to the Gulf’s diverse cultures, landscapes, and attractions in one trip.

The announcement came during a key meeting of the Directors General of Passport Services of GCC member states in Riyadh, where progress was discussed on building the necessary technical infrastructure for implementation. The initiative aims to boost regional tourism, enhance economic cooperation, and position the Gulf as a leading global destination.

Similar to Europe’s Schengen Area, this unified visa framework will allow international travelers to move freely between member countries. Approved in principle in 2023, the visa is a major step in the GCC’s strategy to diversify economies beyond oil by promoting tourism, hospitality, and cultural experiences.

For tourists, this means unprecedented flexibility. Imagine starting your journey with Dubai’s futuristic skyline, venturing into Saudi Arabia’s heritage sites, exploring Oman’s rugged mountains, relaxing on Bahrain’s islands, and ending your trip in Kuwait or Qatar – all on one visa. This newfound accessibility is expected to encourage longer stays and multi-country itineraries, benefiting local economies across the region.

The single visa is also timely, with upcoming major events like the Doha Grand Prix, global cultural festivals in Dubai and Riyadh, and Expo 2025 in Osaka drawing international attention. The ease of moving between Gulf countries will allow travelers to attend multiple events in one trip without bureaucratic hurdles.

Beyond tourism, the unified visa system is expected to attract greater investment in hospitality and entertainment sectors, further strengthening the Gulf’s appeal as a multi-country destination. It aligns with the broader GCC goal of regional integration, making the Gulf a competitive and cohesive tourism market on the global stage.

With this milestone initiative, the Gulf is poised to transform into one of the world’s most accessible, diverse, and attractive regions for international travelers – offering a seamless journey through modern cities, rich heritage, and stunning natural landscapes, all with a single visa.