The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nations are progressing in their efforts to introduce a shared visa system akin to the Schengen visa utilized in Europe. During a meeting in Muscat, Oman, where Oman's Minister of Heritage and Tourism, Salim bin Mohammed Al Mahrouqi, convened with GCC ministers, the proposal for a unified GCC visa received unanimous approval.
This unified GCC visa is set to permit tourists to explore all six member countries within the Gulf bloc, including the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Qatar, Oman, and Kuwait. Presently, travelers are required to secure separate visas for each of these nations, despite their close geographical proximity and well-established transportation links. The establishment of this unified visa system is predicted to generate a range of positive economic benefits. It is expected to generate more employment opportunities in the tourism sector and contribute to the expansion of regional economies. Tourists, particularly those traveling long distances, will find value in a unified visa package that allows them to visit multiple Gulf countries in a single journey. This simplification is likely to extend the duration of their visits and boost overall tourist spending within the region. As for the exact launch date of the unified visa, Oman's Minister Mahrouqi mentioned that the initiative would be introduced "very soon." More comprehensive information regarding the rollout is expected to be presented at a gathering of regional interior ministers scheduled for November, also in Muscat.
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