The UAE and Bahrain are leading the GCC’s first unified visa project, simplifying regional travel and tourism. The initiative aims to replicate the Schengen model, opening the doors to cross-border tourism and collaboration across the Gulf nations.
The Gulf Cooperation Council is taking a historic step toward a unified visa system that will redefine travel across the Middle East. Beginning with a pilot program in December 2025, the UAE and Bahrain will be the first to test this system, allowing travellers to move freely between both nations with a single visa. The initiative marks the start of a long-term plan to integrate all six GCC countries under one streamlined travel policy.
The pilot program focuses on air travel between the UAE and Bahrain, chosen for their close proximity, strong tourism infrastructure, and robust air connectivity. Travellers will be able to enter both nations without separate visa approvals, a move expected to boost trade, tourism, and cultural exchange.
If successful, the project will extend to Saudi Arabia, Oman, Kuwait, and Qatar, creating a connected tourism ecosystem. Visitors will soon be able to explore Dubai’s skyline, Oman’s mountains, Saudi Arabia’s heritage sites, and Qatar’s modern cities on one visa. This integration is expected to increase tourist stays, regional spending, and collaborative tourism investments.
The unified visa is also expected to boost regional airlines, luxury resorts, and cross-border infrastructure. With tourism already driving economic diversification in the Gulf, this step strengthens the region’s position as one of the world’s most accessible and forward-thinking destinations.
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