The GCC has approved a new “one-stop” travel system to simplify movement of Gulf Arab citizens across the 6 member countries.
The new travel system is due to combine immigration, security checks, and customs into a single checkpoint.
A pilot trial is planned to begin in 2025 between the UAE and Bahrain with further expansion if successful to support the upcoming unified GCC tourist visa.
Approving “One-Stop” Travel System
The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) has taken a big step towards enhancing regional travel with the approval of a groundbreaking “one-stop” travel system.
This initiative aims to streamline the movement of citizens across the six member states: the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman, Kuwait, and Bahrain.
This initiative was announced by Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi, the Secretary-General of the GCC, during the 42nd meeting of the Interior Ministers held in Kuwait.
Key Features of the New System
- Single Checkpoint: Travelers will complete all necessary procedures at one location, eliminating the need for multiple inspections.
- Enhanced Efficiency: The system aims to significantly reduce processing times at airports, allowing for quicker departures and arrivals.
- Pilot Program: A trial phase is set to commence between the UAE and Bahrain, with plans for expansion to other member states if successful.
Launching of Pilot Phase
The pilot phase of the “one-stop” travel system is scheduled to launch in December 2025, with an initial focus on air travel between the UAE and Bahrain. This trial will serve as a crucial test to evaluate the effectiveness of the new system before it is rolled out across all GCC countries.
Enhacing Regional Travel
The introduction of the “one-stop” travel system is expected to have far-reaching implications for travel within the GCC. By simplifying procedures, the system aims to enhance the overall travel experience for citizens and boost regional connectivity.
Benefits for Travelers
- Reduced Wait Times: By consolidating checks, travelers can expect shorter queues and faster processing.
- Improved Travel Experience: A streamlined process will make traveling more convenient and less stressful.
- Increased Mobility: The system is anticipated to encourage more frequent travel among Gulf citizens.
The Unified GCC Tourist Visa
In conjunction with the “one-stop” travel system, the GCC is also working towards implementing a unified tourist visa. This initiative aims to attract international visitors and promote tourism across the member states.
Features of the Unified Tourist Visa
- Single Permit: The visa allows travelers to visit all six GCC countries with a single application.
- Focus on Tourism: The initiative is designed to enhance the region’s appeal as a single tourism destination.
- Digital Application Process: Travelers will be able to apply for the visa online, streamlining the travel process.
Expansion Plans of “One-Stop” Travel System
As the pilot phase approaches, there is considerable anticipation regarding the potential success of the “one-stop” travel system. If the trial proves effective, it could lead to a transformative change in how Gulf citizens travel within the region.
Following a successful pilot, the system is expected to be expanded to include Saudi Arabia, Oman, Qatar, and Kuwait. This wider rollout will ensure that citizens across all six GCC nations benefit from easier and faster travel within the region.
In the long term, the GCC aims to create a fully integrated travel system that strengthens regional connectivity and improves overall mobility.
Reshaping GCC Travel Landscape
The GCC’s approval of the “one-stop” travel system marks a significant milestone in the region’s efforts to enhance travel efficiency and promote regional integration. With the pilot phase set to launch in December 2025, there is optimism about the potential benefits for Gulf citizens.
Coupled with the upcoming unified tourist visa, these initiatives are poised to reshape the travel landscape in the GCC, making it easier and more appealing for both residents and visitors alike.
Transformative Projects in Riyadh
Rise Tower Riyadh
Rise Tower Riyadh is due to become the world’s tallest building at 2 kilometers in height surpassing both the Burj Khalifa in Dubai and the upcoming Jeddah Tower.
Designed by global firm HKS, this tower is part of the North Pole Project Riyadh and will feature 678 floors with hotels, restaurants, offices, and observation decks.
Its construction is planned to start in 2026 near King Khalid International Airport and is expected to finish major work by 2030.
Riyadh Creative District
The Royal Commission for Riyadh City has launched Riyadh Creative District to position Riyadh as a global hub for media, culture, and innovation.
Partnering with Riyadh’s iconic KAFD, it is designed to support creatives, startups, and industry leaders and enhance Saudi Arabia’s leadership in the creative economy.
It also aims to promote talent and economic growth to drive digital transformation, aligning with Vision 2030.
Riyadh Metro
The long awaited world’s longest driverless metro system, Riyadh Metro is officially launched with all six lines of the network operating fully.
The $22.5 billion Riyadh metro project spans 176 km across 85 stations and aims to make Riyadh one of the most connected cities in the world.
Operating from 6 AM to midnight, the world’s longest driverless Riyadh Metro covers 176 km with 85 stations.
Dar Global and Mouawad’s Villa Project
Dar Global, an international real estate developer, has partnered with luxury jeweler Mouawad to unveil a $235 Million Villa Project in North Riyadh, close to the World Expo 2030 site.
The development will include 200 exquisite villas, similar to the prestigious Bulgari Residences, and aims to boost Riyadh’s reputation as a top luxury destination.
Scheduled for completion in 2026, this project represents Dar Global’s debut in Saudi Arabia and Mouawad’s entry into the real estate market.
Global Sports Tower
Saudi Arabia has unveiled plans for The Global Sports Tower in Riyadh, which is set to become the world’s tallest sports tower.
This 130-meter towering structure will be located in The Sports Boulevard, one of the major projects in Riyadh.
It is expected to include various world-class sports facilities, such as the highest indoor climbing wall in the world and a running track on its rooftop.
The Avenues Riyadh
The highly anticipated Avenues Riyadh project, valued at $4.58 billion, has reached 44.5% completion and is scheduled to open in early 2026.
Situated in northern Riyadh, this iconic development, inspired by Salmani architecture, will cover 390,000 square meters and host one of the Middle East’s largest malls.
It will also feature three luxury hotel towers: Waldorf Astoria, Canopy by Hilton, and Conrad. This project supports Saudi Vision 2030’s goal of making Saudi Arabia a leading global tourist destination.
Boulevard Business Park
Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority has unveiled plans for a $266 million business park at Boulevard City in Riyadh.
Named the “Boulevard Business Park,” this new project will consist of nine buildings with views of the Boulevard City Fountain, an outdoor art gallery, and a suspended pool.
The initiative aims to promote creativity, innovation, and support for entrepreneurs and businesses, in line with Saudi Vision 2030.
New Murabba
The most recent video demonstrates significant advancements in the construction of the New Murabba, the largest contemporary downtown in northwest Riyadh.
A remarkable 5 million cubic tonnes of soil have already been removed, and the project is making notable headway.
This ambitious venture covers an area of 19 square kilometers and will include the distinctive cube-shaped Mukaab at its heart, capable of holding 20 Empire State Buildings.
King Salman Park
King Salman Park, the largest urban park in the world, is scheduled to open in 2024, covering a total area of 16 square kilometers.
The park includes 11 square kilometers of greenery and water features in the heart of Riyadh.
Its major attractions will be a Royal Arts Complex, an equestrian center, an 850,000-square-meter Royal golf course, and the city’s first skydiving center.
In addition, the park will offer over 2,000 hotel rooms and aims to elevate the quality of life in the city, following the goals of Saudi Vision 2030, thereby improving Riyadh’s global ranking.
Riyadh Sports Boulevard
The Riyadh Sports Boulevard has been designed to be the longest linear park in the world, with the purpose of connecting the Wadi Hanifa in the western part of Riyadh to the Wadi Al Sulai in the eastern part of the city, spanning a total distance of 135km.
This project aims to transform Riyadh into one of the world’s most livable and healthy cities. The development plans to include various pathways, bike lanes, and horse riding trails, covering a vast area of 4.4 million square meters of green spaces.
The impressive initiative will also consist of 8 exceptional districts, such as an athletics district, an entertainment district, and an arts district.
With these transformative projects, Riyadh, one of the world’s top 15 fastest-growing cities, is transforming into a city known for its accessibility and quality of life to become among the world’s top 10 cities with an investment of $1 trillion over the next seven years.
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