The countries of the Persian Gulf – including Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE – seek to “simplify travel logistics and stimulate tourism” and in this connection, the “Arab Schengen” for tourists is becoming a new reality. The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) recently approved a single tourist visa that will allow people to travel to all of the countries mentioned.
As reported by the media of the Persian Gulf countries, this was stated by the chairman of the Council, Syed Hamoud bin Faisal Al Busaidi, during the 40th meeting of the ministers of interior affairs of the Persian Gulf countries. According to the report, all states unanimously approved a single system of tourist visas, which is scheduled to be launched in 2024-2025.
“This will make travel through Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE more convenient. The decision will simplify travel logistics and promote “continuous communication and coordination between the Gulf countries,” he said, according to CNBC TV18.
“The single Gulf tourist visa is a project that will facilitate and optimize the movement of residents and tourists between the six Gulf countries and will undoubtedly have a positive impact on the economic and tourism sectors,” Budaiwi emphasized.