Saudi Arabia Joins UAE, Qatar, Oman, Kuwait, and Bahrain in Lowering GCC Visa Costs to Surge Tourism Across the Middle East: Everything You Need to Know

Published on November 28, 2025

Saudi Arabia joins UAE, Qatar, Oman, Kuwait, and Bahrain in lowering GCC visa costs to boost tourism across the Middle East, simplifying travel and encouraging regional exploration. This initiative aims to make it easier and more affordable for travelers to visit multiple Gulf countries with a single, unified visa. By reducing visa costs and offering a seamless travel experience, these nations are paving the way for increased tourism, fostering cultural exchange, and enhancing connectivity across the region. This move is expected to significantly drive tourism growth and promote the Middle East as a top travel destination.

Saudi Arabia: A Cultural Powerhouse with Open Doors — And a Unified Visa Ahead

Saudi Arabia’s current Tourist eVisa costs around SAR 480–550 (~US $128–$147), including mandatory medical insurance. It offers a one‑year validity with multiple entries and allows stays of up to 90 days per visit. With global interest rising in historic sites like AlUla and Diriyah and religious tourism centres, Saudi Arabia is aiming to fully capitalise on its heritage under its long‑term development vision. The eVisa now provides flexibility and accessibility for many nationalities — and that ease is about to expand across the region as the Gulf moves toward a unified visa system.

UAE: Luxury Hub & Global Gateway Set to Get Even Smoother

The UAE currently issues Tourist Visit Visas ranging between AED 330 and AED 850 (~US $90–$230), depending on duration (30 or 60 days) and entry type (single or multiple). A five‑year multiple‑entry visa is also offered, making it appealing for frequent travellers. The country’s reputation for world‑class hospitality, shopping, and business connectivity continues to attract global travellers. With the forthcoming unified visa across Gulf states, the UAE is expected to become an even greater gateway — simplifying travel for those seeking a multi‑destination Gulf trip.

Qatar: Post‑World Cup Appeal Meets New‑Age Convenience

Qatar currently offers Tourist eVisas or Hayya‑type visas around QAR 100 (~US $27–$30), typically valid for up to 30 days (single-entry, depending on nationality). After hosting the 2022 World Cup, Qatar has ramped up investment in sporting, cultural, and hospitality infrastructure — making it an appealing stop on any Gulf itinerary. With the unified visa in the pipeline, Qatar could become even more attractive for multi-country Gulf tours, offering seamless access alongside its modern amenities and cultural offerings.

Oman: Tranquil Landscapes, Rich Heritage — Soon on a Unified Gulf Pass

Oman currently offers one of the most economical tourist eVisas: OMR 5 (~US $13) for a 10‑day stay, or OMR 20 (~US $52) for 30 days. Known for its rugged mountains, serene wadis, coastal beaches, forts and historic towns, Oman is a haven for nature lovers and cultural travellers alike. With the upcoming unified visa, Oman is likely to benefit as part of broader Gulf itineraries — making it easier for travellers to include Oman along with other Gulf destinations.

Kuwait: Opening Up — Poised to Join Gulf’s Unified Travel Network

Currently, Kuwait offers visa‑on‑arrival (VOA) or eVisa options. The process has been more restrictive compared to some Gulf neighbours, but recent policy shifts — especially for GCC residents — have eased access. As part of the unified visa initiative, Kuwait is preparing to open its doors more broadly to international travellers alongside its Gulf partners.

Bahrain: Island Charms and Motorsport — Soon Part of One Unified Gulf Visa

Bahrain currently offers visas or Visa‑on‑Arrival for stays between 14 and 90 days, depending on the type of entry. Known for its island setting, cultural festivals, and high‑profile events such as the Formula 1 Grand Prix, Bahrain blends heritage travel with contemporary urban experiences. With the unified visa in motion, Bahrain is positioned to see a surge in multi‑destination Gulf tourists seeking variety and convenience.

Why the Unified Gulf Visa Is a Game‑Changer

• The Unified GCC Visa — a single permit to visit the six member states (UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman) — was approved by Gulf ministers and is slated for launch in late 2025 (pilot phase) and full rollout in 2026.
• Estimated pricing for this visa ranges from US $90 to $130 (~AED 330–480), striking a balance between affordability and multi‑country accessibility.
• Instead of paying separately for visas for each country, travellers can now plan seamless travel across the Gulf — ideal for multi‑country itineraries, business trips, or extended holidays.
• The launch is expected to significantly boost tourism, simplify travel logistics, and encourage cultural exchange across GCC countries.

Saudi Arabia Joins UAE, Qatar, Oman, Kuwait, and Bahrain in lowering GCC visa costs to boost tourism across the Middle East, simplifying travel and encouraging regional exploration.

Conclusion

Saudi Arabia Joins UAE, Qatar, Oman, Kuwait, and Bahrain in lowering GCC visa costs is a strategic move to surge tourism across the Middle East. By reducing visa costs and streamlining travel within the region, these countries aim to make it easier and more affordable for international visitors to explore multiple destinations across the Gulf. This collaborative effort will not only boost tourism but also foster greater regional integration and cultural exchange, helping to elevate the Middle East as a prime travel hub on the global stage.