At the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2024, it was revealed that the long-awaited unified GCC tourist visa will finally come into effect by the end of this year. Dubbed as ‘GCC Grand Tours,’ this visa system will revolutionize travel among the six member countries, namely the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain, Oman, and Kuwait.
Designed as a multi-entry visa, it will allow travelers seamless movement across the GCC nations, facilitating longer stays and enhanced exploration of the region’s diverse tourism offerings. Abdullah bin Touq al-Marri, UAE’s Minister of Economy, highlighted the visa’s significance in making Gulf travel more convenient and affordable for tourists.
During the event, a panel discussion emphasized the importance of collaborative initiatives in elevating the GCC tourism industry. Panelists stressed the role of the unified visa in presenting the GCC as a connected destination, thus driving factors like length of stay, average spending, and employment.
Additionally, discussions emphasized the importance of infrastructure development, including the upcoming GCC Railway, in optimizing region-wide accessibility for visitors. The visa is expected to streamline the tourism process, promoting the Gulf’s cultural and economic landscapes to a global audience.
With ongoing efforts to enhance e-services and simplify procedures, stakeholders anticipate a positive impact on regional economies. Plans for cross-country tourism packages further demonstrate the commitment to promoting the entire region as a unified and compelling destination.
In conclusion, the GCC Grand Tours visa heralds a new era of tourism cooperation and accessibility, promising exciting opportunities for travelers and bolstering the Gulf’s position as a leading global destination.
