GCC Unified Tourist Visa to Launch by 2026 for Seamless Six-Nation Travel

The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) is finalizing the implementation of a unified tourist visa, officially titled "GCC Grand Tours," which will allow international visitors to travel across all six member states using a single entry permit by 2026. The system aims to streamline travel between the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Oman, and Bahrain. Digital Integration and Implementation Timeline The unified visa system is currently undergoing technical and legal development to ensure seamless cross-border movement. Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri, the UAE Minister of Economy, previously confirmed that the regulatory frameworks are moving toward completion. While the initiative was initially discussed for a 2024–2025 rollout, full regional integration and availability for all international markets are now slated for 2026. The digital platform will serve as a centralized hub for applications, utilizing shared security databases among the six nations. This infrastructure mirrors the European Schengen model, allowing tourists to enter one GCC country and move freely to others without applying for separate secondary visas or paying multiple entry fees. Economic Impact and 2030 Tourism…