GCC Countries Consider Launching ‘Schengen-Style’ Visa to Boost Tourism. Soon Unified Single Visa for GCC Nations.
The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nations are considering the introduction of a ‘Schengen-style’ visa for tourists, which is expected to significantly increase revenues and footfall across the region. Fatima Al Sairafi, Minister of Tourism in Bahrain, announced this at the Arabian Travel Market, stating that discussions at the ministerial level have been ongoing.
Benefits of Co-Promotion
Al Sairafi emphasized the benefits of co-promoting Bahrain with other GCC nations such as the UAE and Saudi Arabia. Bahrain saw 9.9 million visitors in 2022, exceeding the targeted 8.3 million, thanks to this combined promotion strategy, she revealed.
Importance of Tourism Sector for GCC Economies
Abdullah Al Saleh, undersecretary for the Ministry of Economy, affirmed the importance of the tourism sector to the economic growth of GCC countries during the panel discussion. He highlighted the benefits of having unified regulations, policies, and procedures to facilitate growth in the tourism sector.
Unified GCC Tourism Strategy
The ministers have devised a unified GCC tourism strategy aimed at boosting the sector’s contribution to the GCC GDP, enhancing employment opportunities for nationals, and ensuring the sustainability of the tourism sector.
Promotion of GCC as a Unique Destination
A new application and website are set to be launched to promote all destinations within the GCC and promote unique events. This forms part of the comprehensive vision of the GCC towards a unified goal and vision, as per the undersecretary.
News Summary:
- GCC countries are considering the launch of a ‘Schengen-style’ visa to boost tourism.
- Bahrain’s Minister of Tourism highlighted the benefits of co-promotion, citing the increased number of tourists visiting Bahrain due to this strategy.
- The undersecretary for the Ministry of Economy underscored the importance of the tourism sector to the economies of GCC countries.
- Ministers have devised a unified GCC tourism strategy to increase the sector’s contribution to the GCC GDP and create more jobs for nationals.
- A new application and website will be launched to promote all GCC destinations and unique events.
