Muscat: The GCC Supreme Council has approved the Unified Tourist Visa, which will allow the free movement of tourists and visitors between the Gulf countries.
According to the Saudi Minister of Tourism, "The approval of the Gulf Unified Tourist Visa is a historic step that reflects its commitment to enhancing cooperation and deepening ties in the field of tourism and various sectors. "It will also enhance the Gulf countries' status as a distinguished global tourist destination."
Saudi Minister of Tourism said that the approval of this visa aligns with the development and progress witnessed by the GCC countries across various levels, and it will have an effective impact on strengthening the desired connectivity and integration among the nations.
The implementation of the new system will begin in early 2025.
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Salim Al Mahruqi, Minister of Heritage and Tourism, said, "The approval of the draft visa by the GCC Supreme Council after its adoption at the seventh meeting of tourism ministers in Oman represents a fundamental empowerment for the sector and the competitive position of the GCC bloc as a global tourist destination."
This visa will contribute to facilitating the movement of tourists and visitors between the Council countries, thereby boosting the role of tourism as an economic growth driver and opening new opportunities for investment in the tourism sector in each member state, he said.
The approval of the unified Gulf visa comes as part of the Gulf Tourism Strategy during the meeting in Al-Ula in November 2022.
The GCC unified tourism visa was approved unanimously by the GCC tourism ministers in Manah in October and the Interior ministers in November.
The Minister of Heritage and Tourism said on Wednesday after the regional ministers’ meeting held at Oman Across Ages Museum in Manah.
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