The Middle East is gearing up for a major tourism boost with the launch of a Schengen-style tourist visa in December 2024. This new visa, approved unanimously by all Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states, will enable travelers to seamlessly explore six countries: the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Qatar, Oman, and Kuwait. The introduction of this single visa, mirroring the success of the Schengen Visa in Europe, is expected to significantly simplify travel planning for both tourists and business travelers. The move is anticipated to attract a surge in visitors eager to experience the rich cultural and historical heritage of the Gulf region. The decision to implement the Schengen-style visa was announced during the 40th GCC ministers’ meeting in Oman. This initiative is a significant step towards enhancing regional tourism and facilitating easier travel across the Gulf. While the cost of the visa has not yet been disclosed, its benefits are clear. Travel agents and tour operators in the Middle East are already preparing for the influx of visitors by planning comprehensive itineraries across all six participating countries. This proactive approach aims to capitalize on the advantages of the new visa and stimulate regional tourism. The Schengen-style visa is expected to be launched by the end of December 2024, allowing visitors to travel freely across the Gulf region, much like the Schengen Visa allows for seamless travel across 25 European countries. This initiative is poised to significantly boost tourism in the region, particularly in Dubai, UAE, which has recently witnessed record tourist numbers. The GCC’s commitment to simplifying travel within the region is a testament to the growing importance of tourism as an economic driver. This move promises to create new opportunities for businesses and contribute to the overall growth of the Gulf economy. The launch of the Schengen-style visa marks a significant milestone for regional tourism. It simplifies travel planning, attracts more visitors, and creates a more integrated travel experience for those exploring the diverse and captivating cultural heritage of the Middle East.
Gulf Countries to Launch Schengen-style Visa for Seamless Regional Travel
