The United Arab Emirates is set to participate in a groundbreaking travel initiative that could transform air travel across the Gulf region. Following the latest meeting of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) on Wednesday, November 12, it has been confirmed that the UAE will join Bahrain in a pilot project introducing a one-stop travel system.
According to H.E. Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi, Secretary General of the GCC, the terms and conditions of the single-point project for air travel are expected to be finalised and launched by the end of 2025.
The one-stop travel trial will allow citizens of GCC member states to complete all passport control and security checks at a single airport, streamlining procedures and eliminating the need for additional screening upon arrival. For instance, an Emirati passenger departing from Dubai International Airport (DXB) for Bahrain would undergo immigration and security clearance only once at DXB, expediting their arrival process in Bahrain.
This initiative is expected to reduce airport queues, enhance passenger experience, and standardise border control procedures across GCC countries.
Distinction from GCC Unified Travel Visa
The one-stop travel system is separate from the GCC Unified Tourist Visa, a Schengen-style visa programme scheduled for introduction in 2026.
While the one-stop system will initially apply to nationals of participating GCC countries, the GCC Unified Tourist Visa—also referred to as the GCC Grand Tours Visa—will extend to residents and international visitors, enabling multi-country travel within the Gulf.
According to H.E. Ahmed Al-Khateeb, Saudi Minister of Tourism, the unified visa will be launched following four years of coordination among the six GCC nations. The visa aims to simplify regional travel, offering longer validity periods, lower costs, and greater accessibility compared to existing visa systems.
The initiative builds upon the visa-free travel already available for GCC citizens and represents a key step toward deeper economic and tourism integration within the Gulf.
