Travelling across Gulf countries is about to become a lot simpler. The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) — which includes the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, and Qatar — is preparing to roll out two big initiatives that could completely change how people move within the region.
The first step is a “one-stop travel system”, and the second is a Unified GCC Visa, which is expected to launch in 2026. Together, these projects aim to make travelling between Gulf countries as smooth as moving between Indian states.
What is the One-Stop Travel System?
The one-stop system is designed to make travel between GCC countries faster and more efficient. Imagine this: you go through immigration and security checks only once before boarding your flight. When you land in another GCC country, you don’t need to stand in another long queue or face repeated checks.
This new process will be first tested between the UAE and Bahrain later this year. If all goes well, it will expand to other GCC nations soon after.
To make this possible, a shared digital platform is being built that will connect border and immigration systems across the region. This means that information about passengers, travel records, and violations will be available in real time for all member countries. It’s a big move toward cooperation and digital integration.
How Will It Help Travellers?
For GCC nationals, this is a major convenience. Business travellers, frequent flyers, and families who often move between countries will save time and enjoy a smoother experience.
For tourists and international visitors, this is equally promising. The unified system will make the Gulf a more connected region, and when the Unified GCC Visa is introduced, it could be a game-changer.
The Unified GCC Visa: What We Know So Far
The GCC is also working on a single visa system similar to Europe’s Schengen visa. With this visa, travellers will be able to enter one GCC country and then move freely across others without needing multiple entry permits.
A pilot phase of this project is expected to start in late 2025, and the full rollout could happen in 2026. Officials believe this will make the Gulf region more attractive to international tourists and investors who wish to explore multiple destinations in one trip.
For example, a visitor could land in Dubai, explore Oman’s mountains, shop in Bahrain, and experience Saudi Arabia’s heritage; all on one visa.
A Step Toward a More Connected Gulf
These initiatives are not just about tourism. They reflect a deeper level of cooperation among GCC nations in areas like immigration, security, and digital governance. By linking their systems, these countries are strengthening both economic and social ties.
However, implementing such a system will take effort. Airport facilities will need upgrades, staff will require training, and all member countries will have to align their security standards. The success of the UAE-Bahrain pilot will determine how quickly the rest of the region can follow.
What Travellers Should Watch Out For?
As these projects progress, here’s what you can expect in the coming months:
- Details on how the unified visa will work, including eligibility, cost, and duration
- Expansion of the one-stop system to more GCC countries
- Possible new tourism campaigns promoting the Gulf as a single travel destination
- More clarity on whether residents of GCC countries will also get easier access across borders
If everything goes as planned, the GCC could soon become one of the most seamless travel zones in the world a region where you can explore six unique countries with just one visa and minimal border checks.
