The unified GCC tourist visa system is slated to be operational by the end of the year, announced Khalid Jasim Al Midfa of the Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Authority (SCTDA) at the Arabian Travel Market.
Al Midfa emphasised the importance of e-services in streamlining the process while maintaining security standards.
Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri, UAE’s Minister of Economy, revealed that the regional tourist visas would be named GCC Grand Tours, allowing tourists to spend more than 30 days across the six GCC countries.
Al Marri anticipates that this initiative will strengthen tourism, showcasing diverse destinations and attracting a greater number of visitors. The announcement follows discussions at the World Economic Forum in Riyadh on April 28 and 29.