The “Schengen of the Middle East” is no longer just a rumor. As of February 2026, tourism ministers have released the official roadmap for the GCC Unified Visa or GCC Grand Tours Visa, a single digital permit that opens the doors to six Gulf nations. Here is the definitive guide on how to navigate this new system.
What is the Purpose of the GCC Grand Tours Visa?
The GCC Grand Tours Visa is a unified electronic entry permit that allows travelers to visit all six Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) member states under a single application. It eliminates the need to apply for separate visas for each country, mirroring the convenience of Europe’s Schengen Zone.
Participating Countries:
- United Arab Emirates (UAE)
- Saudi Arabia
- Qatar
- Kuwait
- Bahrain
- Oman
GCC Unified Visa 2026: At A Glance
| Feature | Details |
| Official Name | GCC Grand Tours Visa (Unified Tourist Visa) |
| Participating Countries | 6 Nations: 🇦🇪 UAE, 🇸🇦 Saudi Arabia, 🇶🇦 Qatar, 🇰🇼 Kuwait, 🇧🇭 Bahrain, 🇴🇲 Oman |
| Launch Status | Approved. Phased rollout started Feb 2026; Full public access expected late 2026. |
| Visa Type | Multiple Entry (Allows free movement between all 6 states). |
| Validity Period | 30 Days (Continuous stay). |
| Estimated Cost | $100 – $150 (Approx. AED 367 – AED 550). Subject to final regulatory approval. |
| Who Can Apply? | 1. International Tourists (eligible for e-visa/VOA). 2. GCC Residents (Expatriates with valid residency). |
| Application Platform | Centralized GCC Immigration App/Website (To be launched). |
| Processing Time | Estimated 24 – 72 Hours for digital approval. |
| Mandatory Documents | • Passport (Min. 6 months validity). • Regional Travel Insurance (Must cover all 6 countries). • Proof of Accommodation (Hotel bookings). • Proof of Funds (Bank statement/solvency). |
| Entry Rules | You must enter the region through the Primary Country (the nation where you lodged your application). |
| Main Benefit | Cost & Time Saving: Eliminates the need to buy 6 separate visas; acts like a “Schengen” visa for the Gulf. |
| Extensions | Currently under review; standard policy suggests a strictly limited 30-day window. |
| Work Permitted? | No. Strictly for tourism and leisure purposes only. |
Traveler Eligibility Requirements to Obtain the GCC Unified Visa
The eligibility criteria differ slightly depending on whether you are an international tourist or an existing GCC resident.
For International Tourists:
- Nationality: Open to most nationalities currently eligible for e-visas or visas-on-arrival in the individual GCC states.
- Purpose: Strictly for tourism and leisure. Business extensions are currently under study.
- Documentation: A valid passport (min. 6 months validity), travel insurance covering the entire region, and proof of sufficient funds.
For GCC Residents (Expats):
- Residency Status: Must hold a valid residency visa in one of the six GCC countries.
- Profession: While full lists are finalizing, eligibility often favors “skilled professions” (e.g., doctors, engineers, teachers, managers) similar to previous entry norms.
- Dependents: Family members accompanying the primary resident are typically eligible.
Step-by-Step Application Process for the Digital Permit for GCC Unified Visa
The application system is entirely digital to ensure speed and security.
- Access the Central Portal: The visa will be issued through a new, centralized GCC immigration app/website (launching late 2026).
- Create a Profile: Upload biometric data and passport details.
- Select Route: Indicate your “Primary Entry Point” (the first country you will enter).
- Upload Documents: Submit proof of accommodation (hotel bookings) and onward travel tickets.
- Pay the Fee: A single payment covers access to all six nations.
Important: You must enter the region through the country that issued your visa, similar to Schengen rules.
Estimated Cost and Validity Period of the GCC Unified Visa
Financial details released in early 2026 suggest a competitive pricing structure designed to encourage multi-stop trips.
- Estimated Fee:$100 – $150 (approx. AED 367 – AED 550).
- Analysis: This is significantly cheaper than paying for 3+ separate visas, which could previously cost over AED 1,000.
- Validity Duration:30 Days.
- The standard permit allows for a continuous stay of up to 30 days.
- Entry Type:Multiple Entry.
- Travelers can hop between countries (e.g., drive from Dubai to Oman) freely within the validity period.
Official Launch Timeline for the GCC Unified Visa Rollout
While the framework was approved in late 2025, the practical implementation follows a phased timeline.
- February 2026: Application roadmap and security protocols finalized by Interior Ministers.
- Mid-2026: Pilot testing with select nationalities and tour operators.
- Late 2026: Full public rollout expected for all eligible international travelers.
Also read – UAE Visa Overstay Fines 2026: New Rates, Grace Periods & Payment Guide
When will the GCC Unified Visa be available for tourists?
The visa is scheduled for a full public rollout in late 2026. Pilot phases are expected to begin mid-year, but the centralized digital platform for general applications will go live towards the end of the year.
Can I use the GCC Unified Visa for work or business?
No, the current “Grand Tours” visa is strictly for tourism. While you may attend meetings, you cannot take up employment. A separate “Unified Business Visa” is currently under discussion for future phases.
Do I need travel insurance for the GCC Unified Visa?
Yes, mandatory travel insurance covering all six GCC countries is a strict requirement. You will likely need to upload proof of this insurance during the digital application process.
Can GCC residents apply for the Unified Visa?
Yes, expatriate residents living in any GCC country can apply. This visa aims to make weekend trips and short holidays within the region much easier for the millions of expats residing in the Gulf.
What happens if my visa application is rejected?
If rejected, you will likely receive a notification through the portal with a reason (e.g., insufficient funds, unclear documents). You can re-apply once the issues are resolved, but application fees are generally non-refundable.
Is the GCC Unified Visa a multiple-entry visa?
Yes, it is designed as a multiple-entry permit. This allows you to enter and exit different GCC countries as many times as you like within the valid 30-day period.
How much does the GCC Unified Visa cost?
The estimated cost is between $100 and $150 (AED 367 – AED 550). Authorities have stated the goal is to make it cheaper than the combined cost of individual visas to encourage regional tourism.
Can I extend my stay on the GCC Unified Visa?
Current guidelines suggest the visa is valid for 30 days. Extensions may be possible for an additional fee, but this will depend on the specific regulations of the country you are currently in at the time of expiry.
Which country should I apply to if visiting multiple nations?
You should apply through the portal of the country where you will arrive first. For example, if landing in Riyadh and then driving to Bahrain, your application is processed primarily through Saudi immigration protocols.
Will the GCC Unified Visa replace individual country visas?
No, it will exist alongside individual visas. If you only plan to visit one country (e.g., only UAE), you can still apply for a specific UAE tourist visa, which might be cheaper or easier for single-destination trips.
