Exploring GCC Countries as a UAE Resident Your Visa Guide
If you are living in the UAE and planning to visit neighboring Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries like Saudi Arabia, Oman, Qatar, Bahrain, or Kuwait, you might wonder if you can travel without a visa. While some nationalities are allowed visa-free access, UAE residents who are not eligible for this can still apply for eVisas or visas on arrival, depending on their profession and documents.
This guide will explain the visa options for UAE residents and how you can explore the GCC countries without hassle.
Visa Options for Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia offers an eVisa for UAE residents, allowing multiple entries for various purposes, including business, visiting family, exploring tourist destinations, and even performing Umrah (outside Hajj season).
Key Points About the Saudi eVisa:
- Multiple-Entry Option: You can apply for a one-year multiple-entry visa, which allows each stay to last up to 90 days.
- Easy Application Process: Applications can be submitted online at ksavisa.sa.
- Flexible Purpose: The visa is suitable for tourism, business trips, and religious visits.
For UAE residents interested in exploring Saudi Arabia, this is one of the most convenient visa options. For example, during special events or sporting matches like those featuring players such as “varun chakaravarthy,” this visa makes traveling simple.
Oman Visa on Arrival and eVisa Options
Oman welcomes UAE residents with both a visa on arrival and an eVisa option. Residents of any nationality are eligible as long as they work in a profession approved by Oman’s authorities.
Oman Visa Details:
- Visa on Arrival:
- UAE residents driving to Oman can get a visa at the border.
- This visa allows a stay of up to 14 days.
- eVisa:
- Apply for a 30-day eVisa through evisa.rop.gov.om.
- Only certain skilled professions are eligible for this online visa.
- Documents Required:
- Emirates ID and passport with six months’ validity.
If you are planning a family road trip to Oman, the visa-on-arrival option is convenient and stress-free.
Traveling to Qatar with a GCC Resident Visa
Qatar makes traveling easy for UAE residents by offering a GCC Resident Entry eVisa. Whether you want to attend a business meeting, visit family, or watch exciting sporting events, this visa allows simple access to the country.
How to Apply for the Qatar eVisa:
- Submit your application through the Hayya Portal at hayya.qa.
- Ensure your UAE residency is valid for at least three months.
- Provide proof of accommodation and a return ticket.
- Make sure your profession matches the one listed on your residency visa.
This visa is perfect for those looking to explore Qatar’s famous landmarks or attend events like cricket matches, where you might see players like “محمد بن فهد.”
Bahrain Multiple Visa Options
Bahrain offers two main visa types for UAE residents: a visa on arrival and an eVisa. These options are flexible and suit short-term or longer visits.
Bahrain Visa Options:
- Visa on Arrival:
- Allows a two-week stay.
- Available for UAE residents with valid Emirates IDs and passports.
- eVisa:
- Apply for three-month or one-year multiple-entry visas through www.evisa.gov.bh.
- Requirements:
- Emirates ID with three months of validity.
- A passport valid for six months.
- Proof of return travel and accommodation.
Bahrain’s eVisa makes it easy for UAE residents to enjoy the country’s rich history, shopping malls, and cultural attractions.
Visiting Kuwait The eVisa Made Simple
Kuwait now offers a modernized eVisa system for GCC residents, including UAE nationals. This system makes it easy for skilled professionals to enter the country for tourism or work purposes.
Kuwait eVisa Details:
- Eligibility:
- UAE residents with skilled professions can apply for an eVisa through kuwaitvisa.moi.gov.kw.
- Documents Required:
- A passport with six months’ validity.
- A valid Emirates ID.
- A return ticket and proof of accommodation.
- Visa on Arrival:
- UAE residents can also get a visa on arrival at Kuwait’s airport.
Tips for Smooth Travel to GCC Countries
When planning your visit to any GCC country, keep these tips in mind:
- Check Your Documents: Ensure your passport and Emirates ID are valid for at least six months.
- Match Your Profession: Most GCC visas require your profession to match an approved list.
- Apply Online in Advance: For countries like Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Kuwait, the online eVisa process saves time.
- Prepare for Border Travel: If you’re driving to Oman, you can easily get a visa on arrival at the border.
