United Arab Emirates | eVisa for GCC residents

The Emirati government announced an eVisa for residents of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries and their companions.

Key Points:

• GCC residents (citizens of Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar and Saudi Arabia) can apply for a 30-day eVisa to enter the UAE, which can be extended for an additional 30 days.
• An entry permit for companions travelling with GCC citizens is valid for 60 days from the date of issuance and is extendable once for 60 days.
• Eligible GCC residents must hold a passport valid for at least six months from the arrival date.

Additional Information: As BAL reported, a new GCC tourist visa called the GCC Grand Tours visa is in development that will allow foreign nationals to travel on one multiple-entry tourist visa through the six GCC member states. Additional details are yet to be confirmed, but it is expected that the visa may allow for an extended 30-day tourism stay — longer than the currently permitted maximum — with no additional fees to apply for eligible travelers who hold a passport valid for at least six months. It is expected to launch in late 2024 or early 2025 to boost tourism in the region.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice Group.

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