In a strategic move to enhance bilateral travel relations, the Spanish Ambassador to Kuwait and Bahrain, Miguel Moro Aguilar, has inaugurated several new visa centers at the Spanish Embassy in Kuwait. This development arrives just in time for the peak travel and tourism season, aiming to cater to the burgeoning Middle East travel market.
Ambassador Aguilar emphasized that the new facilities are equipped with the latest technology to streamline the visa application process for both citizens and residents. This enhancement is part of Spain’s broader strategy to accommodate the increasing demand for travel to Spain, which remains a top destination for its rich culture and excellent medical facilities, especially in ophthalmology.
The timing of the new visa centers’ launch coincides with the global travel industry’s major gathering at the Arabian Travel Market in Dubai, highlighting Spain’s commitment to becoming more accessible to international travelers. Last year alone, Spain welcomed approximately 85 million visitors from across the globe, demonstrating its enduring appeal.
In 2022, the embassy issued nearly 30,000 visas, reflecting the high demand among Kuwaitis and other residents. This year, the trend continues to rise, with the embassy receiving over 9,000 applications in April alone, including about 5,000 from Kuwaiti nationals. The surge in applications is likely influenced by the European Union’s recent decision to approve a five-year Schengen visa for Kuwaitis, provided their passports remain valid throughout the period.
Further enhancing the support for Kuwaiti travelers, the Spanish Embassy has established a temporary consular office in Torremolinos, a popular destination for Kuwaitis in Spain. This office operates between June and September each year, offering consular services directly in the tourist hub of Malaga to accommodate the seasonal influx of visitors.
Moreover, Ambassador Aguilar shared promising developments in air travel connectivity between Kuwait and Spain. Discussions are underway to reintroduce a direct flight from Kuwait to Madrid, with expectations of its launch this season. Additionally, plans are in place to increase the frequency of flights to Barcelona and Malaga, with an anticipated addition of four weekly flights to Barcelona in the upcoming season.
The new visa centers are designed to prevent any tampering or unauthorized interference, ensuring a smooth and secure service. These centers will handle all types of visas, including tourist, study, and medical, thereby broadening the scope of travel opportunities for Middle Eastern residents.
With these initiatives, Spain is not only facilitating easier access for travelers but also reinforcing its status as a cultural and medical hub within Europe. The expanded visa services and increased flight options are expected to significantly boost tourism and medical visits, further solidifying Spain’s position as a favorite destination among Kuwaiti and Middle Eastern travelers.
