Visa Options for UAE Residents Traveling to GCC Countries

If you are living in the UAE and planning to travel to other GCC countries for visiting family, friends, or exploring the region, you might wonder whether you need a visa on arrival or an e-visa, or if you are eligible for visa-free entry.

Am I right? 

So, let’s explore the visa options for UAE residents traveling to GCC countries.

If you want to know all the visa possibilities, you need to understand what the GCC countries are.

Shall we start from there?

What are GCC Countries?

The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) was created on May 25, 1981, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. It was formed by Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE because of their close relationships, nearby locations, similar political systems based on Islamic values, shared future, and common goals.

Being a member of the GCC often makes travel easier between these countries. The nationalities of GCC can travel without a visa and the residents of GCC have simple visa options to travel.

When it comes to the ways to reach different GCC nations, you might be confused—or maybe not.

 Don’t worry anymore; we are here to provide you with the best travel options available to reach other GCC countries from the UAE.

How Can UAE Residents Travel to GCC Countries?

Let’s talk about the GCC map. Imagine the Arabian Peninsula. It’s like a big piece of land surrounded by water.

 Saudi Arabia is the biggest country, taking up most of the land. It’s in the middle.

 Kuwait is north of Saudi Arabia, near Iraq. Bahrain and Qatar are smaller countries on the coast, like islands or little pieces sticking out into the water. 

The UAE is next to Qatar, also on the coast, with several cities. 

Oman is in the southeast corner, with a long coastline. All these countries are close to each other, sharing similar land and weather, mostly desert with coastlines. 

They’re all connected by land or sea, making it easier to travel between them.

UAE residents have a few ways to travel to other Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. 

The most common is by air. All major airports in the UAE have frequent flights to cities across the GCC, making it a quick and easy option.

Traveling by road is also possible, but it requires careful planning.

 You need to go through specific border crossings, and it’s important to understand the regulations for each country.

 For example, your vehicle registration and insurance need to be valid and appropriate for the country you’re entering. Sometimes, you might need a vehicle ownership certificate.

Let’s check in detail how to visit other GCC countries from the UAE.

Dubai to Oman

Travelling from the UAE to Oman is easy as it is connected by road, and it takes around 6 hours to reach Muscat from the UAE border.

The visa requirements for UAE residents visiting Oman are less complicated, which leads to a high volume of UAE-registered vehicles on Oman’s roadways during long holidays like Eid.

If you’re looking for a cheap travel option, hear what Ahmed Albulushi, CEO of MWASALAT Oman, has to say. “At MWASALAT Oman, we are committed to ensuring the safety and comfort of passengers traveling between Oman and the UAE in specially designed, safe, and comfortable buses for long trips. I hope this step marks the beginning of a well-connected transport network between the two friendly countries,” said Albulushi.

In addition, RTA and MWASALAT Oman launched a new international bus service in 2019, providing transportation for passengers traveling between Dubai and Muscat.

Of course, there are also flights between Dubai and Muscat, which take around 1 and a half hours.

Dubai to Qatar 

Can I travel to Qatar from Dubai by road?” asked a UAE resident to our visa consultant in Dubai.

Of course you can! Traveling to Qatar by road is the cheapest option, and it takes around 6 hours and 51 minutes. The road distance between Dubai and Qatar is 694 km.

If you are hesitant to sit for a long time, you can book a flight ticket instead. It takes around 2 hours

Dubai to Kuwait 

Kuwait is often called the “Hollywood of the Gulf” due to its pioneering role in the region’s arts and popular culture.

Kuwait is a mix of modernity and tradition. Seventy percent of the population consists of expatriates, which vividly reflects the diverse culture prevalent in Kuwait.

If you want to explore Kuwait and its culture, remember that travelling by air makes your journey easier.

The flight duration from Kuwait to Dubai is 1 hour and 45 minutes.

If you want to travel by road, it takes 12 hours and 40 minutes, as Kuwait is 1,247 km away from the UAE.

Dubai to Saudi

Traveling to Saudi Arabia for tourism is easy for UAE nationals because they don’t need a visa. However, foreign residents in the UAE must get a Saudi visa before they can enter the Kingdom.

The UAE’s roads connect to Saudi Arabia. There are several border crossing points, some of which are only for GCC citizens. You can travel to Saudi Arabia by private car or public buses operated by government or company services.

If you travel by car, it will take 12 hours and 21 minutes (1,189 km). The shortest flight time from Dubai to Riyadh is 1 hour and 50 minutes.

Dubai to Bahrain

Bahrain is known for its mix of ancient heritage and modern attractions. Famous for its warm hospitality, lively festivals, and unique places, Bahrain has something for everyone.

The driving distance from Dubai to Bahrain is 925 km, and it takes about 10 hours and 1 minute to drive. There are daily flights from Dubai to Bahrain. The road distance is 923.4 km, and the driving time is about 10 hours and 18 minutes.

You have an idea about the distance between the UAE and other GCC countries, but if you are eligible for a visa, you need to understand the visa requirements.

 Our visa experts in the UAE are here to provide complete details about our visa services. So, let’s find out!

Visa Requirements for UAE Residents to Travel to GCC Countries

Visa requirements for Saudi

If you are a UAE resident and a citizen of a GCC country like the UAE, you do not require a visa. Foreign nationals holding a UAE residency visa can usually apply for an e-visa online, which allows for tourist visits. The e-visa generally permits multiple entries and lets you stay for up to 90 days.

Saudi Arabia also offers a visa on arrival for citizens of certain nationalities. There are various types of visas available, including tourist, business, and transit visas, catering to different travel purposes.

When entering Saudi Arabia, it is mandatory to have health insurance, and your passport must be valid for at least six months. It’s crucial to follow local laws while in the Kingdom.

The e-visa process is done online, where applicants must fill out forms and upload the necessary documents. It’s advisable to apply for the e-visa well in advance of your travel date.

It’s always recommended to check the latest visa requirements on the official Saudi government website before traveling, as regulations can change, or else you can consult our visa consultants.

Here are the documents you need for the Saudi Arabia e-visa for UAE Residents:

• Passport: Your passport should be valid for at least six months after the e-visa is issued.
• ID card.
• Bank information.
• Accommodation details (optional).
• Passport-size photo with a white background.
• Email address.
• If the applicant is underage, needs medical assistance, or is handicapped, you will also need to provide your guardian’s information, including their phone number, residence, ID, and approval.

Visa Application Process:

1. Visit the official Saudi Arabia eVisa portal at https://visa.mofa.gov.sa/.
2. Create an account or log in if you already have one.
3. Fill out the online application form with accurate details.
4. Upload scanned copies of your passport and a recent passport-sized photo that meets the requirements.
5. Upload a digital copy of your valid UAE visa or residency permit and provide your residential details.
6. Double-check all the information to ensure it’s correct.
7. Enter any necessary medical information and choose one of the available medical insurance options.
8. Pay the visa fee online using the provided payment methods.
9. Wait for an email notification with your e-visa if it’s approved.
   

Visa Requirements for Bahrain

• The applicant must be outside Bahrain when applying for this visa.
• The applicant must have held a valid resident permit in a GCC country for at least 3 months.
• The applicant’s resident permit in a GCC country must be valid for at least another 3 months.
• Applicants with GCC resident permits must not have a laborer occupation.
• The visa is issued and paid for online.

Required Documents:

• A copy of your passport (family page and any additional information page).
• A copy of your GCC residence permit, valid for at least 3 months.
• A copy of your confirmed return air ticket.
• A copy of your hotel booking in Bahrain. If you’re staying with a relative or friend, provide a copy of their ID.

Visa Application Process:

1. Visit the official Bahrain eVisa website: https://www.evisa.gov.bh/.
2. Choose the type of visa you need (tourist, business, etc.).
3. Fill out the online application form with accurate details.
4. Upload scanned copies of your passport, photo, and any other required documents.
5. Pay the visa fee using the available online payment options.
6. Once approved, you’ll receive the e-visa confirmation via email.

Visa Requirements for Oman

UAE citizens can travel to Oman without a visa, while residents can apply for an e-visa. Visitors can apply for this visa online through the Royal Oman Police website, which allows a stay of 28 days. If needed, visitors can extend their visa for an extra week. The visa costs OMR 5.

Required Documents:

• Valid passport: You need a scanned copy of your valid passport. It must be valid for at least 6 months from your entry date.
• Passport photo: The photo should be recent with a white background.
• Resident permit: You need a copy of your residence permit, which must be valid when entering Oman.

Visa Application Process:

1. Go to the Royal Oman Police (ROP) eVisa website, where you’ll find the option to apply for a tourist visa.
2. Create an account by providing your email, password, and nationality, then verify your account.
3. Click on “Apply for visa” and then select “Apply for unsponsored visa.” Fill out the online visa form with the required details.
4. Upload digital copies of your passport, photo, and any other documents needed.
5. Pay the visa fee online using the available payment methods.
6. Wait for an email notification about your visa approval, which will include the e-visa if approved.

Visa Requirements for Kuwait

Travelers with a valid UAE passport do not need a visa to enter Kuwait. However, if you have a foreign passport and a GCC residency card, you will need to get an e-visa before traveling to Kuwait. This applies to all foreigners living in the UAE. The e-visa issued by the Kuwait portal is valid for up to 30 days.

The application process for the Kuwait online visa is quick and requires basic personal details, passport information, and some security questions.

Requirements:

• Eligibility: To apply for a Kuwait visa from the UAE, you must be either a resident with a GCC residency permit valid for at least 6 months or a national of an eligible country.
• Passport validity: Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of your application.
• Security: You must not have any security restrictions that prevent you from entering Kuwait.
• Visa compliance: You must follow all visa conditions in Kuwait. If you’ve violated visa rules in the past (like overstaying), you may not be able to get a new visa.

Visa Application Process:

1. Fill out the online Kuwait e-visa application form.
2. Ensure all information matches your passport exactly.
3. Upload scanned copies of your passport, photo, and any other required documents.
4. Pay the visa fee online using the available payment options.
5. Once processed and approved, you’ll receive the e-visa via email.

Special Visa Arrangements for UAE Residents 

If you live in the UAE, you might find it easier to visit other countries in the GCC (like Saudi Arabia, Oman, Qatar, etc.). Sometimes, having a UAE resident visa gives you special benefits. This could mean faster visa processing or easier entry.

There are agreements between these countries to make travel simpler for people who already live in the GCC. Professionals might even get extra-fast visa help.

But it’s really important to check the latest visa rules before you travel. These rules can change. To make your trip smooth, it’s always best to plan ahead. If you need help, you can always ask someone who knows about visas, like us.

The Visa Guy is always ready to help you. Get in touch with us and explore GCC countries from the UAE easily.

FAQ’s

How long can UAE residents stay in Qatar without a visa?

The duration of stay without a visa depends on your nationality. UAE nationals do not require a visa to enter Qatar. For foreign nationals residing in the UAE, some can get a visa on arrival for either 30 or 90 days, depending on the nationality of the passport they hold. If you’re not eligible for a visa on arrival, you can apply for an e-visa before your travel.

Do UAE residents need a visa for Oman?

Generally, travel to Oman is easy for GCC residents, including UAE residents. However, visa requirements can change, so it’s always best to check the latest visa rules and regulations before planning your trip to Oman.

How can I apply for a visa to Saudi Arabia from the UAE?

To apply for a Saudi Arabia visa from the UAE, you can do so through the official Saudi visa website or authorized travel agencies. You can also opt for an e-visa, which is a convenient online option available for eligible applicants.

Are there any travel restrictions between GCC countries?

Travel between GCC countries is usually straightforward for GCC nationals. However, restrictions may change from time to time due to unforeseen circumstances or updated regulations. Therefore, it’s recommended to check the current travel guidelines before planning your journey.

Can I travel to GCC countries by road from the UAE?

Yes, you can travel to most GCC countries by road from the UAE. However, ensure you have the necessary travel documents, including a valid passport and visa (if required) for the countries you will be passing through. Be sure to check the entry requirements for each country before you travel.

Can UAE residents get a GCC visa on arrival?

There is no single GCC visa.” Visa requirements vary by country, and the ability to get a visa on arrival depends on the specific GCC country you’re visiting and your nationality. It’s essential to check the visa rules for each country before your trip.

Do UAE residents need a visa to travel to GCC countries?

The visa requirements for UAE residents depend on the specific GCC country they are traveling to and their nationality. Some nationalities can travel visa-free or obtain a visa on arrival, while others may need to apply for a visa in advance. Always verify the current visa requirements before traveling.