The GCC Supreme Council has given its approval to the Unified Tourist Visa, a significant milestone that signifies the commitment of the Gulf countries to fostering cooperation and strengthening ties in the tourism sector and other industries. This move will further elevate the reputation of the Gulf nations as exceptional global tourist destinations.
The Saudi Minister of Tourism emphasized that the endorsement of this visa is in line with the remarkable advancements and growth experienced by the GCC countries in diverse domains. It is expected to have a positive and influential effect on enhancing the desired connectivity and integration among the nations.
The implementation of the new visa system is scheduled to commence in early 2025.
Salim Al Mahruqi, the Minister of Heritage and Tourism, expressed that the endorsement of the preliminary visa by the GCC Supreme Council subsequent to its adoption at the seventh gathering of tourism ministers in Oman signifies a significant empowerment for the sector and the competitive position of the GCC bloc as a worldwide tourist destination.
According to him, this visa will greatly contribute to facilitating the movement of tourists and visitors between the Council countries, thereby enhancing the role of tourism as a driver of economic growth and creating new investment opportunities in the tourism sector within each member state.
The approval of the unified Gulf visa is a part of the Gulf Tourism Strategy, which was discussed during the meeting in Al-Ula in November 2022.
The GCC unified tourism visa received unanimous approval from the GCC tourism ministers in Manah in October and the Interior ministers in November.
Following the regional ministers' meeting held at Oman Across Ages Museum in Manah, the Minister of Heritage and Tourism made this statement on Wednesday.
