Muscat -– In a significant stride towards enhanced regional cooperation, the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) has announced progress on the implementation of a unified tourist visa, marking a new milestone in the collective achievements of the member states.
The announcement was made by the GCC Secretary General, Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi, during the 40th meeting of the Interior Ministers of the GCC held in Muscat, Oman.
Under the chairmanship of Oman’s Minister of Interior and President of the current session, Sayyed Hamoud bin Faisal Al Busaidi, the meeting saw the attendance of Interior Ministers from the GCC member states. Albudaiwi, in his opening remarks, conveyed profound gratitude to the Sultan of Oman, Sultan Haitham bin Tariq Al Said, and the Omani government for their unwavering support and efforts towards the advancement of the GCC’s objectives.
At A Glance * The "Gulf Schengen" or a unified tourist visa initiative is set to revolutionize travel within the Gulf region, creating a seamless experience for millions of visitors. * According to the World Tourism Organization, the "Gulf Schengen" aims to attract around 43 million foreign tourists. * This initiative marks a significant shift in the tourism landscape of the GCC, positioning it as a major player on the global tourism stage. * Beyond enhancing tourist experiences, the "Gulf Schengen" is poised to provide a substantial economic boost and open new avenues for investment.
The Secretary General lauded the GCC countries for their exemplary development and prosperity under the guidance of their leaders, highlighting the significant regional and international stature they have achieved.
He emphasized the importance of maintaining a high level of national security to continue this trajectory of success, which has been recognized both regionally and internationally.
A key concern addressed by Albudaiwi was the growing menace of drug trafficking and abuse, which poses a serious threat to the youth and society at large.
He called for a unified strategy to combat this scourge, encompassing prevention, control, and treatment. The Secretary General commended the diligent efforts of security personnel across the GCC in their relentless fight against drug-related challenges.
The meeting’s agenda focused on several critical security issues, with the unified GCC tourist visa project being a highlight.
The project is set to be implemented according to a specific timeline, aiming to facilitate travel within the GCC and bolster tourism. Another significant development discussed was the initiation of an electronic linkage system for traffic violations across the member states, starting with its first phase.
The GCC is also directing efforts towards the preparation of a ‘Comprehensive GCC Strategy to Combat Drugs’, underscoring the collective resolve to safeguard communities from the dangers of narcotics. Security awareness campaigns were reviewed, reflecting the Council’s proactive approach to public safety and education.
In a ceremony on the meeting’s sidelines, the Prince Nayef bin Abdulaziz Award for Security Research was presented to the authors of winning research entries for the period 2022-2023, celebrating the innovative contributions to security research within the GCC.
This meeting in Muscat reinforces the GCC’s commitment to regional integration and cooperation, with the unified tourist visa project being a testament to the Council’s forward-looking vision for a cohesive and prosperous Gulf region.