New GCC visa system set to revolutionise regional travel

Frequent flyer?

What if we told you that you could travel hassle-free across GCC nations?

Guess what, you can!

A game-changing GCC visa system may soon be on the horizon, and it's expected to make journeys between the United Arab Emirates and its neighbouring countries a breeze.

Imagine a world where visiting Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia from Dubai is as easy as a walk in the park. This exciting development isn't just for UAE nationals; it's designed to benefit UAE residents as well.

Here’s everything you need to know!

The concept of this groundbreaking visa structure was recently discussed by the UAE's Minister of Economy, Abdulla bin Touq, signalling a major leap forward in regional tourism strategies.

In an interview with The National, Minister bin Touq expressed his optimism about this initiative. He stated, "I think that is something which has been on the table. It's been complementing all the GCC strategies on tourism. Hopefully, we are going to see something around a pan-GCC visa which will allow easier mobility of people within the GCC. A resident of Saudi, for instance, can enter the UAE and vice versa. I think that's where we see the future of GCC tourism."

The UAE has invested significantly in its tourism infrastructure over the years, setting the stage for this momentous change. While the exact launch date of the new visa system remains uncertain, you can count on Time Out to keep you updated with the latest developments.

This exciting development follows a series of recent adjustments to the UAE visa structure, showcasing the nation's commitment to enhancing the travel experience for residents and visitors alike.

Speaking of visa structures, did you know just how easy it is to get a tourist visa to Dubai?

Yes, if you are planning to visit, let us break down how easy it is.

How can you apply for a tourist visa in Dubai?

Visit the UAE's official visa portal: Start by accessing the UAE's official visa portal. You'll find all the necessary information and application forms there. That’s where you want to start.

Select the appropriate visa type: Choose the visa type that suits your travel purpose, whether it's for tourism, business, or visiting family and friends.

Complete the online application: Fill out the online application form with accurate and up-to-date information. Ensure that you have all required documents, such as your passport, passport-sized photos, and any supporting documents specific to your visa type.

Pay the visa fee: Pay the relevant visa fee through the secure online payment system. Visa fees vary depending on the type and duration of the visa.

Submit your application: Once you've completed the application and payment, submit it electronically through the portal.

Wait for processing: Your visa application will be processed by the relevant authorities. Processing times may vary depending on the visa type.

Receive your visa: If your visa application is approved, you'll receive your visa electronically via email. Make sure to print a copy and carry it with you when travelling to Dubai.

Remember that visa requirements and processes may change, so it's essential to check the latest updates on the official UAE visa portal before applying.

Want to get an in-depth insight into the different visa types and application processes around Dubai? Check out our guide here.