The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries are planning to launch Schengen-style visa for tourists which allowed holders to travel to the United Arab Emirates, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain and Oman with a single visa.
Discussions have been undergone during the Arabian Travel Mart (ATM) held in the UAE, Fatima AL Sairafi, Minister of Tourism in Bahrain said that the countries were studying how to achieve a unified single visa.
“We see that happening very soon because we people flying from abroad to Europe usually spending their time in several countries rather than in one country. We really saw the value this can bring not to each country but all of us.”
Al Sairafi said
At present, visitors to GCC countries required separate visas for each country they visit. This process can be costly and time consuming. Now GCC plans just like the Schengen visa allows visitors to visit 26 European countries without the requirement of multiple visas. Similarly, with the unified GCC visa, tourist can travel to all GCC countries with a single visa. The proposed unified visa is aimed at increasing tourism revenue and making it easier for tourists to explore the GCC region.
The undersecretary for the Ministry of Economy, Abdullah AL Saleh believes that the tourism sector is vital for the growth of the GCC economies.
“We have one common market and unified policies. In the tourism sector, the GCC can benefit from both supply and demand side by having umbrella regulations, policies and procedures to facilitate growth. It is part of the comprehensive vison of the GCC that we have one goal and one vision.”
Said Al Saleh
These days travelers don’t think of a country but a region. “I believe travelers of tomorrow will look always at multiple stops, routes, and regions. Joint offerings can be promoted and benefit all.”
