GCC Grand Tours Visa

Travel across the Gulf is about to become a lot easier. The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) has officially approved a unified tourist visa, soon to be known as the GCC Grand Tours Visa. Much like the Schengen system in Europe, this single visa will allow travellers to explore six countries—Oman, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain, and Kuwait—without the hassle of applying separately for each destination.

A Game-Changer for Travellers

For visitors planning a Gulf adventure, this development is set to redefine convenience. Instead of juggling different application processes and entry requirements, tourists will only need to apply once. Early details suggest the visa will be digital-first, processed online through a central portal, with travellers able to upload documents, pay fees, and receive the permit electronically. Stays of 30 to 90 days are expected to be permitted, giving ample time to combine several destinations into a single itinerary.

Why It Matters for Oman

For Oman, the unified visa brings exciting opportunities. Travellers drawn to Dubai’s skyscrapers or Saudi Arabia’s cultural sites will now find it easier to add Muscat, Nizwa, or Salalah to their journey. This integrated approach encourages longer stays and broader exploration, boosting tourism across the Sultanate.

At Zahara Tours, we see this as a chance to help visitors experience Oman’s unique charm while seamlessly connecting them to the wider Gulf. Whether it’s desert adventures in Wahiba Sands, dolphin watching in Muscat, or a mountain escape in Jebel Akhdar, we’ll be ready to weave Omani highlights into multi-country journeys.

Perfect for Modern Travel Styles

The GCC Grand Tours Visa also caters to the growing trend of “bleisure” travel—where business trips extend into leisure escapes. A professional attending meetings in Doha or Dubai could easily tack on a weekend exploring Oman’s beaches or wadis, all on the same visa. Families and groups will also appreciate the simplified planning and reduced paperwork.

When to Expect It

While the official launch date has not been confirmed, rollout is targeted for late 2025 or early 2026, with a possible pilot phase beforehand. As soon as the visa becomes available, Zahara Tours will assist travellers with the application process and create tailored GCC itineraries that showcase the best of Oman alongside its Gulf neighbours

The unified visa marks a milestone in regional travel. With Zahara Tours as your guide, discovering Oman—and the entire Gulf—will soon be easier, richer, and more rewarding than ever.