Single via for Gulf region in the pipelines. Image: Unsplash
One for all: Single visa for entry to Gulf states in the pipelines
Visitors stand to benefit from a proposed unified visa which will cover entry to various states in the Gulf region.
Single via for Gulf region in the pipelines. Image: Unsplash
The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and its member states are set to implement a single visa for tourists and business visitors from various countries.
It was revealed at a panel discussion on The Future of Travel for the GCC, held at the Arabian Travel Market in Dubai, that the Gulf Cooperation Council is planning the introduction of a common visa system for nationals, residents, tourists and business visitors from 35 Arab states and foreign countries.
ALSO READ: Changes to Australia’s parent/family visas in the pipelines
COMMON VISA
A single visa that permits entry to a number of states is cost-effective and cuts down on paperwork and administration for potential visitors.
The GCC’s common visa initiative is comparable to the European Union’s Schengen visa, which grants visitors entry to several member states.
SINGLE GCC VISA
According to Middle East Monitor, the GCC’s unified single visa aims to boost tourism and facilitate travel within the region.
Nationals from various countries – which have not yet been named – would be able to visit Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar and Oman under a single visa.
TOURISM IN GULF STATES
Many of the GCC and member states are pushing to develop their tourism sectors. Last year Qatar opened up to global tourism when it hosted the FIFA World Cup.
A key driver for the idea of a common visa in the Gulf was reportedly the FIFA World Cup held in Qatar last year, which according to the Arab Gulf Centre for Studies and Research (CSRGulf) benefited the economies of all countries.
Saudi Arabia is currently making huge strides in opening up to tourism. The kingdom is set to launch a new national airline and is rapidly developing the infrastructure needed for its tourism industry.
SOUTH AFRICANS IN GULF
There are large numbers of South African expats living and working in various countries across the Gulf region.
This translates to a number of South Africans needing to secure visas to travel to GCC countries to visit family and friends or to go there on business trips. Qatar currently does not require entry visas for South African passport holders.
Three of the region’s major airlines – Etihad Airways, Qatar Airways and Emirates fly to South Africa daily.
ALSO READ: Australia to revamp migration processes for skilled visas
