Gulf Cooperation Council launches one-stop travel system; UAE and Bahrain to pilot first phase

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The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) has announced the rollout of a one-stop travel system designed to make movement across member states faster, simpler, and more connected. The system will initially be piloted by the UAE and Bahrain, before expanding to the rest of the Gulf.

The initiative aims to integrate immigration, security checks, biometric verification, and visa processing into a single, coordinated flow — allowing travellers to complete formalities once and move freely across participating GCC nations. Officials described the system as a major step toward “greater economic and social integration” within the region.

During the pilot phase, UAE and Bahrain will link their travel platforms, airports, and border systems through shared digital infrastructure. This includes real-time data exchange, unified traveller identity profiles, and coordinated entry/exit procedures.

Authorities say the unified system will reduce travel times, improve visitor experience, and support regional tourism and business mobility. It also aligns with the GCC’s long-term goal of a Schengen-like regional travel zone, enabling smoother movement for residents, citizens, and international visitors.

The rollout will occur in phases, with other GCC countries expected to join once technical and regulatory alignment is completed. The initiative comes as the region sees a surge in tourism demand and cross-border business travel.