GCC Grand Tours Visa: How to Apply, Costs, and Eligibility for the New Schengen-Style Visa

The GCC Grand Tours Visa is poised to be one of the most talked-about travel developments of the decade. This single-entry visa for all six Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nations—Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE)—will fundamentally change how tourists experience the region. Modeled on Europe’s Schengen visa, the Grand Tours Visa promises to eliminate the friction of multiple visa applications and border crossings, making a multi-country Gulf adventure a reality for millions. This in-depth guide provides a practical overview of the application process, expected costs, and eligibility requirements.

Understanding the GCC Grand Tours Visa

Officially approved in late 2023, with a target launch date of late 2025 or early 2026, the GCC Grand Tours Visa is a collaborative effort by the GCC states to boost tourism and economic diversification. The goal is to create a seamless travel experience, encouraging visitors to spend more time and money across the region rather than in just one country. For a traveler, this means:

• A single online application.
• One payment for access to all six countries.
• Flexibility to travel freely between the member states.

This visa is strictly for tourism and short-term visits; it does not permit employment or long-term residency.

Eligibility Requirements: Who Can Apply?

While the final list of eligible nationalities is pending, the visa is expected to be available to a wide range of international travelers who previously required a visa for at least one of the GCC countries. The goal is to target major tourist markets, including the US, EU, and Asian countries. If you are a national of a country that currently enjoys visa-free access to a GCC state, your privileges are not expected to change. The new visa is designed to benefit those who would otherwise have to apply for multiple visas.

Likely Eligibility Criteria:

• Hold a passport with a minimum of six months validity from your date of entry.
• Have a confirmed travel itinerary or accommodation bookings.
• Possess a return or onward ticket.
• Be able to provide proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay.
• Hold travel insurance that includes medical coverage.
• Have no history of visa violations in any GCC country.

The Application Process: A Step-by-Step Guide

The application process is designed to be as straightforward as possible, leveraging a centralized online portal. The final official portal is yet to be announced, but the process is expected to be digital-first, eliminating the need for embassy visits.

Step 1: Gather Your Documents

Before starting your application, ensure you have the following documents ready in digital format:

• A clear, scanned copy of your passport’s bio-data page.
• A recent, passport-sized digital photograph.
• Your confirmed hotel booking or a letter of invitation.
• A copy of your travel insurance policy.
• Recent bank statements or other proof of financial means.
• A copy of your return or onward flight ticket.

Step 2: Access the Online Portal

Once the official platform is launched, you will need to navigate to the website. The process will likely begin by creating a personal account.

Step 3: Complete the Application Form

Fill in the online form with your personal details, passport information, and a proposed travel itinerary. Be precise and double-check all information to avoid any delays. The system will likely ask for your first intended country of entry.

Step 4: Upload Supporting Documents

The portal will have a section for you to upload the digital copies of the documents you prepared in Step 1.

Step 5: Pay the Visa Fee

The application fee will be paid securely online via a credit or debit card. While the final price is not confirmed, officials have suggested it will be competitive and in a similar range to a Schengen visa (estimated between $90 and $130). This is a single fee for access to all six countries, offering substantial savings.

Step 6: Await Approval

After submission, you will receive a confirmation email. The processing time is expected to be quick, with the e-visa being delivered to your email inbox once approved. It is important to print a copy and keep a digital version on your phone for easy access during your travels.

Estimated Costs and Duration

The GCC Grand Tours Visa is expected to offer a stay of up to 90 days. This duration provides enough flexibility for a comprehensive tour of the region. As for the cost, the goal is to make it a more attractive option than applying for multiple single-country visas. For instance, if a traveler needed visas for the UAE and Saudi Arabia, they would pay two separate fees, which could easily exceed the cost of the single GCC visa.

In summary, the GCC Grand Tours Visa is a landmark development designed to simplify and enrich the travel experience in the Gulf. By following this guide, future travelers can prepare to take advantage of this new era of seamless exploration, making their grand tour of the GCC an unforgettable journey.