Expected Cost Revealed for Unified GCC Visa

The long-awaited Unified GCC Visa is about to launch, promising to make travel across the Gulf region much simpler and more affordable for UAE residents. With this single permit, travellers will be able to visit multiple Gulf countries without the hassle of applying for separate visas.

How much will the Unified GCC Visa cost?

Officials say the new visa will likely cost between $90 and $130 (Dh330–Dh480), depending on the type and duration. Travellers can choose a single-country visa or a multi-entry “GCC Grand Tour” option, valid for 30 to 90 days. The multi-country version will cost more, similar to existing multiple-entry e-Visas.

Current visa costs for each GCC country

Right now, UAE residents with valid residency visas must still apply for individual e-Visas for each GCC country. Here’s a quick breakdown of current fees:

• Saudi Arabia: The e-Visa for GCC residents costs about SAR535 (Dh525), including mandatory travel insurance. It allows multiple entries for one year, with each stay up to 90 days. Using a travel agent may increase the total cost.
• Kuwait: Since August 2025, GCC residents can get a tourist visa on arrival, valid for 30 days, if their residency is valid for at least six months. Fees are estimated between Dh250 and Dh300, especially when using online service providers.
• Oman: Oman offers one of the cheapest options. The GCC Resident e-Visa costs OMR5 (Dh48) for a single-entry, 28-day stay. Travellers can also get a visa on arrival at land borders.
• Qatar: The e-Visa for UAE residents costs QAR100 (Dh100–105) for a single-entry visa valid up to 30 days. Some nationalities may qualify for visa-free access, but most expats still need the e-Visa.
• Bahrain: Fees depend on entry type. A single-entry visa costs BD29 (Dh284), while a three-month multiple-entry permit is BD77 (Dh756). Frequent visitors may prefer the multi-entry option.

Why do visa costs vary?

Visa fees differ based on entry type, stay duration, and extras like travel insurance (as in Saudi Arabia). Some countries charge less for short stays, while longer or multiple-entry visas cost more. These prices apply to non-GCC nationals with valid UAE residency. UAE citizens can usually travel visa-free within the region.

Will the Unified GCC Visa be cheaper than separate e-Visas?

The Unified GCC Visa aims to cut paperwork and costs, letting residents move freely between all six GCC states—much like Europe’s Schengen visa. With an expected price of Dh330 to Dh480, it sits in the middle of current visa fees. The “GCC Grand Tour” multi-country pass may cost a bit more, but it offers much greater convenience.

Until the new visa launches, UAE residents can still use the existing online systems for each country, with prices ranging from Dh48 in Oman to over Dh750 in Bahrain. Once available, the Unified GCC Visa could transform regional travel, making weekend getaways and business trips across the Gulf smoother, cheaper, and more connected.