Exploring Visa Options for GCC Residents: Saudi Arabia, Oman, Qatar, Bahrain, and Kuwait

As the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) continues to enhance cross-border travel, residents, particularly expatriates living in the UAE, enjoy increasingly flexible visa options for traveling to neighboring countries. This article provides an insightful guide to the various visa opportunities available for UAE residents in Saudi Arabia, Oman, Qatar, Bahrain, and Kuwait.

Saudi Arabia

UAE expatriates and residents from other GCC countries can now apply for a one-year multiple-entry eVisa to Saudi Arabia. This eVisa is designed to facilitate various activities, including business trips, visiting family, tourism, and performing Umrah (except during the Hajj season).

Application Process

To apply for this eVisa, residents can navigate to Saudi Arabia’s unified visa platform: ksavisa.sa. The visa is available in two formats: a single-entry visa valid for 90 days or a multiple-entry visa valid for one year, allowing stays of up to 90 days per visit.

For comprehensive details regarding application costs, requirements, and steps, click here.

Oman

Visa on Arrival

UAE residents can secure a visa on arrival when traveling to Oman, regardless of nationality, as long as they work in a profession approved by the Royal Oman Police (ROP). Alternatively, an eVisa valid for 30 days can also be applied for, providing flexibility in travel plans.

GCC Resident Visa

For those aiming for a more extended stay, the GCC Resident Visa offers an unsponsored visit option available through Oman’s official eVisa portal: evisa.rop.gov.om. Eligibility is limited to residents in specific professions recognized by the ROP. Those outside this category must arrange a sponsored tourist visa via an authorized travel agency.

Traveling by Road

If you plan to drive to Oman, the process is equally straightforward. UAE residents can obtain a visa on arrival at the border for stays up to 14 days, provided their Emirates ID and passport hold at least six months of validity.

Qatar

UAE residents can easily secure a GCC Resident Entry eVisa via Qatar’s Hayya Portal: hayya.qa.

Requirements for Application

1. Valid UAE residency for at least three months from the arrival date.
2. Confirmed accommodation arrangements and a return ticket.
3. Job title alignment with the profession detailed on the residence visa.

For additional information on the visa process, required documents, and fees, click here.

Bahrain

UAE residents have the option of obtaining either a two-week visa on arrival or an eVisa through Bahrain’s Nationality, Passport & Residence Affairs (NPRA) online portal: www.evisa.gov.bh. The eVisa provides multiple-entry options for up to three months or one year.

Eligibility Criteria

• A valid Emirates ID or residency permit for a minimum of three months.
• A passport with at least six months of validity.
• Employment in a skilled profession.
• Proof of return travel and accommodation bookings.

Kuwait

Residents from the UAE and other GCC countries can apply for a Kuwait eVisa via the updated platform: kuwaitvisa.moi.gov.kw.

Applying for a Visa

Residents from the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman, and Bahrain with specific professional titles may either apply for an eVisa or secure a visa on arrival.

Required Documentation

1. Passport valid for at least six months.
2. Recent passport-sized photo.
3. A confirmed return ticket.
4. A valid Emirates ID with a minimum of six months’ validity.
5. Proof of accommodation for the travel duration.

Note that visa requirements may vary depending on nationality, and documents should be prepared for presentation at the airport for those opting for visa on arrival.

This guide serves as a comprehensive resource for residents of the UAE looking to traverse the rich landscapes and cultures of the neighboring GCC countries, all while enjoying streamlined visa processes enhancing travel convenience.