Gulf countries international nationals to be granted visa free travel by UAE

Sunday, October 1, 2023

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is intending to make certain changes in its visa system with potential consequences for international resident living in Gulf countries. UAE Economy Minister Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri introduced the concept of this prospective change during a conference held in Abu Dhabi. The modifications put forward are basically to simplify
mobility within Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), including Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Oman, Kuwait, and Qatar. He stipulated that this system could potentially be implemented in the near future.

Now GCC Residents will be able to travel Visa-Free To UAE

Unlike earlier, now the GCC residents will be able to travel freely within its member states without the need of visas. The new proposed visa system will help the international residents who are inhabitants of diverse global origins and also constitute the majority of the population.

How will it affect the tourism sector in Middle East?

Promoting visa free travel among the residents will fuel tourism and cooperation. It will be beneficial for all member states. As the Economy Minister Al Marri said. “What’s good for Saudi is good for the GCC”. This policy shift will also line up with UAE’s recent effort to ease social constraints which includes the decriminalization of cohabitation among unmarried couples, the introduction of civil marriage provisions and the cessation of fees for liquor licenses. It will escalate tourism like never before.

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