Travel agencies in the UAE and abroad are all set to roll out packages for tourists visiting the Gulf region ahead of the launch of the unified GCC tourist visa or GCC ‘Grand Tours’ visa.

Travel and tourism industry executives said packages, which will include a couple of night stays, travel and sightseeing in three countries in the region, could cost visitors around Dh4,000-Dh5,000 and above.

During a ministerial discussion at the Arabian Travel Market last week, officials said the ‘GCC Grand Tours’ visa could be in place by the end of this year. The multi-entry visa will be similar to Schengen visa allowing access to all six Gulf countries.

Rehan Asad, vice-president for global markets at Expedia, said the unified GCC tourist visa is a positive change for the region.

He said when Europe launched the Schengen visa, it amplified the region’s tourism sector and allowed people seamless access to several countries.

“People from the UAE love to travel to Saudi Arabia and Oman, and vice-versa, hence, this new visa will drive intra-country traffic and boost tourism further.”

The Expedia V-P said they have conducted research to assess people’s needs.