Expected Cost Revealed for Unified GCC Visa (2025 Update). The long-awaited Unified GCC Visa is set to revolutionize travel across the Gulf region. Designed to simplify mobility for residents and tourists, this visa will allow travelers to visit all six Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries—UAE, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Qatar, Bahrain, and Kuwait—under a single travel permit.
This landmark initiative aims to boost tourism, promote regional integration, and make cross-border travel more affordable. Here’s everything you need to know about the expected cost, visa types, and comparison with existing GCC e-Visas.
How Much Will the Unified GCC Visa Cost?
According to recent updates, the Unified GCC Visa is expected to cost between $90 and $130 (Dh330–Dh480).
The pricing will depend on two main factors:
| Visa Type | Validity | Expected Cost | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single-Country Visa | 30 days | Around Dh330 | Ideal for short stays in one GCC country |
| Multi-Country “GCC Grand Tour” Visa | 30–90 days | Around Dh480 | Allows entry into multiple GCC states, similar to Europe’s Schengen Visa |
The multi-country visa will likely cost more but will offer unmatched convenience for travelers, especially those who frequently visit the Gulf for business or tourism.
Why the Unified GCC Visa Matters
This unified system will remove the need for multiple visa applications. Once approved, travelers can freely move between GCC countries, streamlining cross-border tourism and trade. It mirrors the Schengen Visa model used in Europe, enhancing the region’s collective appeal as a global travel destination.
Key benefits include:
- One application for six destinations
- Lower combined costs
- Time savings for business travelers and tourists
- Easier regional travel planning
Current Visa Costs in GCC Countries (Comparison Table)
Until the new visa is officially launched, UAE residents must still apply for separate e-Visas to visit each GCC country. Below is a breakdown of the current costs as of October 2025.
| Country | Visa Type | Approx. Cost (AED) | Validity | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Saudi Arabia | e-Visa for GCC residents | Dh525 | 1 year, multiple entries | Includes travel insurance; cost may increase via agents |
| Kuwait | Tourist Visa (on arrival) | Dh250–Dh300 | 30 days | Must have UAE residency valid for 6+ months |
| Oman | GCC Resident e-Visa | Dh48 | 28 days | Cheapest option; visa on arrival available |
| Qatar | e-Visa | Dh100–Dh105 | 30 days | Single-entry visa; some nationalities visa-free |
| Bahrain | Single/Multiple Entry | Dh284–Dh756 | 2 weeks–3 months | Multi-entry preferred for frequent visitors |
As seen above, visa fees vary widely—ranging from as low as Dh48 in Oman to Dh756 in Bahrain for a three-month multiple-entry visa.
Why Do Visa Costs Vary So Much?
Visa pricing depends on several factors, including:
- Duration of stay (short-term vs long-term)
- Single or multiple entries
- Travel insurance inclusion (mandatory in Saudi Arabia)
- Processing platform or agency fees
Each GCC country has its own immigration policies and pricing models. However, the new Unified GCC Visa will standardize these costs and simplify the process for travelers across the region.
Will the Unified GCC Visa Be Cheaper Than Individual Visas?
In most cases, yes.
Currently, applying separately for all GCC countries could easily cost Dh1,000 or more in total. The Unified GCC Visa, priced at Dh330–Dh480, offers significant savings.
Even if the multi-country “GCC Grand Tour” version costs slightly more, it remains far more convenient and affordable for frequent travelers, business visitors, or tourists planning multi-destination Gulf trips.
When Will the Unified GCC Visa Launch?
Officials have not announced an exact release date yet, but reports suggest it will roll out in phases across 2025–2026. The project is being coordinated by the GCC Secretariat General with strong support from all member states.
Once launched, the visa will be available online via a dedicated GCC e-Visa portal, where applicants can:
Official Confirmation and GCC Plans
According to official statements, the GCC countries are currently finalizing security protocols, digital verification systems, and border integration technology to ensure smooth rollout. The unified visa will also support smart border crossings and digital identity checks, allowing seamless movement across airports and land borders.
The initiative is part of the Gulf Tourism Strategy 2030, which aims to attract over 50 million visitors annually and position the GCC as a single, interconnected tourist hub.
Key Takeaways for UAE Residents
- Expected Cost: Dh330–Dh480
- Launch Timeline: 2025–2026
- Visa Validity: 30 to 90 days
- Benefits: One visa for six countries
- Ideal For: Frequent travelers, business visitors, tourists
The Unified GCC Visa will eliminate the paperwork and reduce costs, making short trips to Saudi Arabia, Oman, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, and the UAE more accessible than ever before.
Conclusion
The upcoming Unified GCC Visa is set to be a game-changer for travel in the Gulf region. With an estimated price of $90–$130 (Dh330–Dh480), it offers affordable access to all six GCC nations through one digital application. This simplified approach is expected to strengthen regional tourism, business connectivity, and cultural exchange.
As Gulf countries finalize implementation, travelers can look forward to cheaper, faster, and borderless travel experiences across the Middle East.
FAQs About Unified GCC Visa
1. What is the Unified GCC Visa?
It’s a single-entry or multi-country visa allowing residents and tourists to visit all six Gulf Cooperation Council countries with one application.
2. How much will the Unified GCC Visa cost?
The expected cost ranges from $90 to $130 (Dh330–Dh480) depending on the type and validity period.
3. When will the Unified GCC Visa be launched?
The official launch is expected in late 2025 or early 2026, according to GCC officials.
4. Can UAE residents use the Unified GCC Visa?
Yes, UAE residents will be eligible once the system is active, allowing travel to other GCC states without separate e-Visas.
5. Will this visa replace national e-Visas?
Yes, once implemented, it will serve as a common visa system for all six GCC nations, reducing the need for separate country-specific visas.
