GCC Countries to Launch ‘Schengen-Style Visa’ for Tourists According to Reports
The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries are in talks to introduce a “Schengen-style visa” that would allow tourists to visit all partner countries under one visa, according to a report. The announcement was made during the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) which runs until May 4. Last year’s FIFA World Cup was seen as a successful “test pilot” for cross-collaboration between the Gulf countries.
Saudi Arabia, for example, provided 60-day visas to all Hayya Card holders during the event. The success of the World Cup has sparked discussions about similar, more permanent travel policies, which would allow tourists to move freely between countries without restrictions, the report said.
The GCC countries, which include UAE, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Kuwait, Qatar and Bahrain are all reportedly regulating visas at different paces, making visa policies “naturally tricky,” according to reports.
Discussions are ongoing, and there was a growing recognition that a Schengen-style visa for the Gulf region could be hugely beneficial. Easy travel across the Gulf would increase tourism for everyone, and the visitor would be happier visiting several countries without restrictions on crossing borders.
