The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has unveiled details of a landmark visa program designed to streamline travel across the member states of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). Dubbed the “GCC Grand Tours” visa, the initiative draws inspiration from Europe’s Schengen Area, which allows for visa-free movement between member countries.
Announced by Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, the UAE’s Minister of Economy, during the Arabian Travel Market (ATM), the GCC Grand Tours visa represents a significant step towards boosting tourism in the region. This long-awaited program will eliminate the need for tourists to obtain separate visas for each GCC nation, simplifying logistics and potentially reducing travel costs.
Al Marri hailed the visa as a “game-changer” for the GCC’s tourism industry. “The GCC Grand Tours visa will allow travelers to seamlessly explore the vast and diverse offerings of our six member states, ” he remarked. The visa is expected to cater to tourists seeking extended stays, offering validity periods exceeding the typical 30-day visa limitations. This extended timeframe caters to visitors who wish to experience the region’s rich cultural tapestry, encompassing everything from the towering dunes of the Empty Quarter desert to the bustling metropolises of Dubai and Doha.
The introduction of the GCC Grand Tours visa is anticipated to usher in a new era of regional tourism cooperation. By facilitating smoother travel between member states, the program is expected to incentivize longer itineraries, encouraging tourists to delve deeper into the unique experiences offered by each GCC nation. This, in turn, is projected to generate significant economic benefits. Al Marri expressed optimism, stating, “The forecast is set even higher, with an anticipated contribution of 12 percent to our GDP. ”
The GCC Grand Tours visa is envisioned as a cornerstone of a broader regional tourism strategy. By removing travel barriers, the initiative aims to position the GCC as a unified tourist destination, capitalizing on the collective strengths of its member states. From the pristine beaches of Oman to the architectural marvels of Saudi Arabia, the GCC boasts a plethora of attractions that cater to a wide range of tourist preferences.
The specific details regarding the application process, visa fees, and validity period are still being finalized. However, the announcement at the ATM has generated considerable excitement within the travel industry. Industry experts believe the GCC Grand Tours visa has the potential to transform the region’s tourism landscape, making it a more accessible and enticing proposition for international travelers.
Also published on Medium.
