GCC Grand Tours Visa: Unlocking Seamless Travel Across the Gulf
A new era of mobility is coming to the Gulf: the GCC Grand Tours Visa will soon allow visa holders to travel across six GCC nations without needing multiple entry permits. This significant change will simplify procedures and boost regional tourism in a major way.
What Is the GCC Grand Tours Visa?
The GCC Grand Tours Visa—previously referred to as the “Unified GCC Tourist Visa”—is a multi-entry permit that spans:
United Arab Emirates
Saudi Arabia
Qatar
Bahrain
Kuwait
Oman
It allows foreign residents in the region to travel freely between member countries using a single visa, making multi-country visits more accessible and less costly.
Why It Matters for Travelers
Currently, non-GCC residents living in the UAE need individual visas for each Gulf country. The new visa will:
Eliminate multiple visa applications
Offer longer stays—potentially 30 to 90 days
Reduce application fees and administrative twists
This streamlined approach aligns the Gulf region with global multi-country visa models, enhancing tourism and business travel.
Progress and Timeline
The concept was unanimously approved in late 2023. In February 2025, GCC tourism ministers moved forward to enact the visa system. Although the exact rollout date is not yet confirmed, launch is expected by the end of 2025.
How It Compares to the Current System
Today, most GCC citizens enjoy visa-free regional travel. However, foreign residents must navigate varying national visa types—from eVisas to sponsor forms—depending on each country’s rules. The Grand Tours Visa will replace this patchwork with consistency and ease.
Likely Requirements and Options
Details are still emerging, but early indications include:
Eligibility for foreign residents in GCC countries
Options for single- or six-country travel as part of one permit
Validity ranging between 30 and 90 days, with potential renewals
Applicants should prepare supporting documentation like Emirates IDs and passports.
What It Means for the UAE
Beyond visa reform, the UAE is expanding its travel infrastructure to support easier movement. Key developments include:
Inter-emirate tourist routes linking all seven Emirates
Etihad Rail project offering direct Abu Dhabi–Dubai passenger service
Enhanced road networks and connections to neighboring GCC states
These improvements complement the new visa to create a fluid regional travel ecosystem.
Explore More with Guide of Dubai
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Must-visit attractions include:
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Dubai Visa Types and Fees (2025)
30 Days Single Entry Visa
Adult: $125 | Child: $80
This visa is ideal for short-term visits to Dubai. It allows a single entry, meaning you can enter and exit the country only once. It's suitable for tourists or short business trips.
30 Days Multiple Entry Visa
Adult: $210 | Child: $160
This option is perfect for travelers who need to enter and exit Dubai multiple times within 30 days. It’s especially convenient for those planning to visit neighboring Gulf countries during their stay.
30 Days Visa Extension
Adult & Child: $330
If you’re already in Dubai and wish to extend your stay, this service allows you to add 30 more days to your existing tourist visa without leaving the country.
60 Days Single Entry Visa
Adult: $190 | Child: $140
Planning a longer vacation or business visit? This visa allows you to stay in Dubai for up to 60 days with a single entry.
60 Days Multiple Entry Visa
Adult: $300 | Child: $280
This visa lets you enter and exit Dubai multiple times within a 60-day period. It's ideal for business travelers or those exploring multiple destinations in the region.
Visa Cancellation
Adult & Child: $75
This fee applies when canceling a visa. If you plan to apply for a new visa, the previous one may need to be canceled first.
Express Service
Adult & Child: $50
Need a visa quickly? The express service ensures faster processing compared to the standard timeline, ideal for urgent travel plans.
Travel Insurance
Adult & Child: $20
While not mandatory for entry, travel insurance is highly recommended. It covers potential issues such as medical emergencies or baggage loss during your trip.
Get Ready for GCC Grand Tours
For residents and visitors, it's time to plan ahead:
Monitor official GCC announcements for launch timings—expected by late 2025
Prepare required documents like valid Emirates ID and passport
Organize future travel itineraries across multiple GCC nations
Once launched, the GCC Grand Tours Visa will mark a turning point in regional mobility—making Gulf travel seamless, cost-effective, and welcoming for all.