The GCC has moved one step closer to borderless travel as it was announced that Saudi Arabia has joined Bahrain, the UAE, Qatar, Kuwait and Oman in supporting a new air travel framework that streamlines cross-border movement.
The initiative aims to introduce a "one-stop" immigration system which eliminates arrival-based checks, essentially making travelling between the Gulf as easy as flying domestically.
According to reports, a pilot programme is scheduled to begin in December 2025, starting between the UAE and Bahrain. Initially, the system will apply only to GCC nationals, with long-term plans to extend to all six member nations and eventually to non-GCC nationals too.
The new system is expected to drastically reduce wait times at airports and improve the travel experience, and boost tourism.
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