Gulf Cooperation Council interior ministers confirmed on 5 May 2026 that the long-awaited unified tourist visa will become operational before the end of 2026. The single visa will permit multiple entries to all six member states for up to 30 days per visit.
The GCC Grand Tours Visa will be available online or on arrival for citizens of 80 countries, including most European, Asian and American passport holders. Processing fees are expected to be set at approximately US$100.
Authorities say the visa will simplify travel for tourists wishing to combine visits to Dubai, Riyadh, Muscat and other Gulf cities on a single trip. It is modelled on the Schengen system but limited to the GCC region.
Each country will maintain its own entry conditions, including health insurance requirements and proof of accommodation. The visa will be valid for one year from the date of issue with multiple entries permitted.
Tourism boards across the Gulf have welcomed the initiative, predicting a 25 percent increase in intra-GCC travel by international visitors. Major hotel chains are preparing joint marketing campaigns for the new visa.
Travellers planning multi-country Gulf itineraries should apply at least two weeks in advance to avoid delays during the initial rollout phase. Existing single-country visas will remain valid until expiry.
The GCC Secretariat will launch a dedicated mobile app in September 2026 to allow real-time visa status checks and digital entry stamps at all regional airports and land borders.