Latest news with #non-GCC
Euronews
23-07-2025
- Business
- Euronews
Six Gulf countries to launch Schengen-style tourist visa
A new tourist visa will be launching soon that will make travelling between countries in the Gulf easier. The GCC Grand Tours Visa - also known as the Unified Tourist Visa or Unified GCC Visa - was approved in 2023. It will mean being able to visit Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates with a single permit. The aim is to streamline travel in the region and make it easier to explore multiple countries in one trip. Here's everything we know about when it will launch and how you can apply. What is the Gulf's Unified Tourist Visa? The Unified Tourist Visa will be a single permit that grants entry to all six member states of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). At the moment, travellers are required to apply for separate visas for each country. With the new system, non-GCC nationals will be able to choose to apply for a single-country or a multi-country option. The unified visa will be accessed via a single portal, which also means easing the administrative burden on visitors. To be eligible, the purpose of your visit must be tourism, a short-term stay, or seeing family and friends. The visa does not allow for employment or long-term stays. The GCC has not yet confirmed the visa's validity period, but it is expected to range from 30 to 90 days. The fee has also not yet been announced, but authorities say the new multi-country option will be a cost-effective alternative to the current six separate visas for those wishing to visit all member states. The Unified Tourist Visa is expected to launch by late 2025 or early 2026. How can I apply for the Gulf's Unified Tourist Visa? The system is not yet live, but once it launches, it will be a fully online process through a dedicated portal. Travellers will need to supply personal information and details of their trip, including the purpose of their visit, travel dates and intended itinerary such as transportation details between countries. They will then be asked to select a visa for a single country or multiple Gulf states. Applicants will need to upload various documents, which are likely to include a copy of a valid passport, a passport-style photo, proof of accommodation, travel insurance, proof of sufficient funds to cover the trip, and a confirmed return or onward travel ticket to a non-GCC destination. Once approved, the visa will be issued via email - but travellers will also be expected to carry a printed copy with them throughout their trip.
Observer
11-07-2025
- Business
- Observer
Passport departments review the launch of Unified GCC tourist visa
Muscat: The Secretary-General of the Gulf Council reviewed on Wednesday the efforts being made by the passport departments of the Ministries of Interior of the GCC countries to launch the unified tourist visa project soon. Jassim Mohammed al-Budaiwi, the Secretary-General, affirmed in Riyadh that the passport departments of the GCC's Ministries of Interior, through their ongoing joint technical meetings, are making efforts to launch the unified tourist visa project. He reviewed the draft agenda of the unified Gulf visa project and the latest findings of the meetings of the technical teams concerned with this project. He said the unified visa will facilitate movement between the GCC countries and stressed that everyone is working as one team to keep pace with technological developments and security requirements in a world characterized by rapid change. The unified visa was officially approved in 2023 as part of efforts to boost tourism in the region. It is aimed at making travel more convenient for non-GCC nationals residing in member countries, allowing them to explore the region without applying for multiple entry permits. According to sources, tourists will be able to visit all six GCC countries using just one visa, which will be available only for tourism and family visits. Applications will be made online through to be launched official portal. The visa is expected to be valid for 30 to 90 days. Visitors will have the option to select between access to a single country or multiple countries. Benefits for Tourists Tourists can enjoy the freedom to travel seamlessly across several GCC countries with a single visa. This eliminates the need for multiple applications and allows travelers to visit more of the Gulf region with fewer administrative difficulties. Simplified Visa Process The application process for the Grand Tours Visa will be completely online. Having a user-friendly online application process that allows tourists to apply for a visa to one country or all six countries in a few short minutes reduces the hassle and time typically involved in obtaining separate visas for each country. Tourists can save money by choosing to apply for the unified visa option to travel across all six nations, rather than needing to pay for multiple different visas. This makes the GCC Visa an affordable choice for tourists looking to explore the Gulf region. The GCC visa allows tourists the opportunity to visit all six culturally rich and diverse countries easily and with low administrative effort. For people who love to travel, having the opportunity to visit all six countries is a significant advantage of the visa. The introduction of the visa is likely to boost tourism and lead to increased spending in local economies, job creation, and increased development in the hospitality and service sectors, all of which will have significant positive impacts on the local economies. The multi-country travel and the likely increase in tourism encourage interactions between visitors and local communities ,which encourages greater understanding and appreciation of the region's rich heritage and diverse cultures. Valid Passport Travellers will need a valid passport from an approved country with at least six months of validity from the date of entry into the GCC region. You will also need to have several blank pages in your passport for exit and entry stamps. Some applications may require additional documentation, such as: Confirmation of hotel bookings, a rental agreement, or a letter of invitation from a host residing in one of the GCC countries. A detailed plan of travel within the GCC, including flight bookings or other transportation details between the countries. Proof of valid travel insurance covering medical expenses, emergencies, and repatriation throughout your stay in the GCC countries. Bank statements or financial documents demonstrating that you have sufficient funds to cover your expenses during your stay in the GCC region. Evidence of a return flight to your home country or onward travel to another destination outside the GCC region. Proof of accommodation Travel itinerary Travel insurance Proof of financial means Return or onward ticket
Time of India
07-07-2025
- Business
- Time of India
Planning to study in UAE? Here's what every International student must know
With world-class universities and a welcoming visa system, the UAE continues to attract students from across the globe offering diverse academic programs and scholarship opportunities in an increasingly global academic hub/Representative Image As the academic year winds down, students and parents begin exploring university options and academic majors that align with the student's goals. For international and non-GCC students, the UAE offers diverse educational opportunities from world-class universities to flexible visa options and scholarships. According to the UAE Digital Government, the country provides pathways for international students to enrol in both public and private institutions, making it a major hub for global learners. Higher Education Access for Foreign Students The UAE allows non-UAE and non-GCC students to study in public schools (for a fee) and at both public and private universities. Several institutions also offer scholarships and special programs for high-achieving international applicants. Recently, the United Arab Emirates University (UAEU) announced it will admit foreign students who meet academic standards and are able to pay applicable tuition fees. Official Guide for Foreign and Resident Students The UAE Digital Government outlines several key steps for international students seeking enrollment in private universities: Research accredited universities licensed by the Commission for Academic Accreditation. Verify that your chosen program is recognised by the UAE's regulatory bodies. Understand each institution's admission criteria and application timelines. Familiarise yourself with the visa requirements set by the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA). Coordinate with your embassy in the UAE for scholarship opportunities and procedural guidance. Students sponsored by foreign governments must liaise with their respective agencies for proper documentation and arrangements. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Is your tinnitus getting worse? Do this immediately (Watch) Hearing Magazine Undo Students can study and reside in the UAE under a visa sponsored by either their university or a UAE-resident parent or relative. The visa is typically issued for one year and is renewable with proof of ongoing enrollment at a licensed educational institution. Key Points on Sponsorship: Male students under 25 can be sponsored by a parent. Male students over 25 can continue under parental sponsorship with proof of enrolment in a year-long program. Female students can be sponsored by parents regardless of age. Visa Requirements for Students Before applying for a visa, the applicant must be officially accepted into a recognised institution. The visa application will then require: New students: Admission letter from a UAE university. Current students: Enrolment certificate. Medical fitness certificate from a UAE-approved center. Proof of sponsorship by a university, parent, or relative. Final approval from the GDRFA. It's advisable to consult the UAE embassy in your home country for detailed information and updates. Student Visa Duration and Conditions Validity: One year, renewable annually with updated proof of enrolment. Sponsorship: Can be from a university or a UAE-resident parent/relative. Fees: Typically between AED 5,500 ( 1,498 USD) to AED 6,500 ( 1,771 USD), depending on the institution (Source: GBS Dubai). Where to Apply: GDRFA e-service portals for each emirate GDRFA Dubai official website or app ICP (Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security) app DubaiNow app Along with this, high-achieving students may qualify for long-term Golden Residency Visas of 5 or 10 years. This applies to individuals demonstrating academic excellence and offers a pathway to long-term stay in the UAE. (Source: Visit Dubai) Important Reminders All student visa applications must mee admission requirements. Visa approval remains subject to GDRFA review in each emirate. Students should maintain valid documents and stay up to date on university enrolment to avoid visa issues.
Gulf Insider
03-07-2025
- Business
- Gulf Insider
Unified Visa for Gulf Countries Launching Soon
A unified tourism visa for visitors to the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain and Oman will be launched soon, according to GCC Secretary General Jassem Al Budaiwi. In a statement by the GCC Secretariat, Al Budaiwi expressed gratitude to member nations for efforts to realise the unified tourism visa. After it is introduced, non-GCC visitors to the region will be able to move freely between the six nations using a single visa. The announcement came, following the 39th meeting of heads of GCC Interior Ministries' passport departments. Al Budaiwi said that the measures would help realise the visions of the Gulf leaderships, adding that involved parties were keen on keeping up with the latest technologies, as well as growing and rapid global security demands. Once approved, the unified Gulf tourist visa will allow its holders to visit six GCC countries, focusing on attracting and retaining tourists within the region to enhance economic integration. Further details and a launch date are yet to be announced, but reports have claimed it will be valid for between 30 and 90 days and be valid for tourism or family read: UAE-India Airfares Drop To 'Unusually Low Levels' After July 8, Say Travel Agents
Gulf Insider
02-07-2025
- Business
- Gulf Insider
Sharjah Regulates Auction of Special Vehicle Plates
Sheikh Abdullah bin Salem bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler and Deputy Chairman of the Sharjah Executive Council (SEC), chaired the council meeting on Tuesday morning at the Ruler's Office, in the presence of His Highness Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler and Deputy Chairman of the Executive Council. The council issued a decision to regulate the auction sale of special vehicle number plates in the Emirate of Sharjah The meeting discussed several agenda topics focused on monitoring the performance of government departments and entities, and developing the legislative framework to enhance government work and achieve integration across sectors in service of the community. The council decided to conclude the first regular session of the twentieth annual term for municipal councils in the Emirate of Sharjah, with the session officially ending on Thursday, 8 Muharram 1447 AH, corresponding to July 3, 2025. During the period between sessions, the general committees of the municipal councils will continue handling their respective affairs. The council has also implemented a decision to regulate the auction sale of special vehicle number plates in the Emirate of Sharjah. This regulation relates to plates designated by the Sharjah Police General Command. Under this decision, the Sharjah Police will organise and supervise the auctions, establish conditions and regulations, specify plate numbers and category codes, contract with specialised companies, and manage any additional tasks assigned by the Executive Council. The decision stipulated that licensed investment funds registered with the Securities and Commodities Authority and listed in the investment funds register have the right to own and use real estate in the emirate in accordance with the regulations set forth in this decision, as follows: 1. Private investment funds that are fully owned by UAE citizens or GCC nationals, as well as public investment funds, have the right to own real estate in all areas of the emirate and to use real estate in projects approved for usufruct sale. 2. Private investment funds that include units owned by non-UAE citizens and non-GCC nationals have the right to own real estate in projects approved for sale to foreigners and to use real estate in projects approved for usufruct sale. The decision also includes legal articles concerning ownership and usufruct conditions, investment fund registry, powers of the Real Estate Registration Department, fees, data updates, suspension of fund transactions, and trading of private fund units. Also Read: Road Goes Viral: Fujairah Rolls Out Musical Road, Here's How It Works
