UAE To Introduce Visa-Free Travel for Gulf Residents to Boost Tourism

The United Arab Emirates is considering a new visa system that would make it easier for residents to travel to neighboring Gulf countries, such as Saudi Arabia.

The United Arab Emirates is considering a new visa system that would allow residents of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) to travel freely within the six GCC countries, including Saudi Arabia. The new system could be introduced "very soon," according to UAE Economy Minister Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri.

The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) group include: Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Oman, Kuwait, and Qatar. GCC citizens can travel freely between these countries without a visa, but foreign residents, who make up the majority of the population, still need a visa to cross GCC borders.

This decision will make it easier for residents of the GCC to travel between countries and will attract more tourists to the region and boost the economy, according to UAE Economy Minister Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri.