The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) has approved a single tourist visa for all member countries, which will not only enhance regional economies but also create more job opportunities through visa processing.
According to the Gulf Times, GCC countries are very close to launching a Schengen-style visa to promote tourism in the region. During a GCC ministerial meeting in Muscat, Oman's Minister of Heritage and Tourism, Salim bin Mohammed Al-Mahrouqi, announced the approval of the unified visa process.
It is reported that the single tourist visa will allow tourists to enter the six-member Gulf bloc, including the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Qatar, Oman, and Kuwait. This visa service will start soon, and it is expected to bring more job opportunities and economic growth to the region.
Omani media reported that "this visa scheme will be launched very soon." While there is no specific timeline mentioned, Oman Observer reported that the new visa service will be presented during a regional ministerial meeting in Muscat in November. Once implemented, GCC countries will embark on a joint promotional campaign for this scheme.