Unveiling Gulf: Comprehensive GCC Travel Guide

Spanning six distinct nations, the GCC is an underrated destination, combining vibrant business culture and ultra-modern architecture with ancient Arabian charm. From glitzy skyscrapers to mystical minaret-pierced mosques, this off-the-beaten-track conglomerate enchants intrepid travelers. And it’s now easier than ever to hop between its cities thanks to improving connectivity and streamlined entry options. Whether you’re planning a multinational adventure or a quick holiday, our in-depth Gulf travel guide covers everything you need to know.

The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) was established in 1981 as a political and economic alliance of six Middle Eastern nations — Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). 

These states have much in common regarding cultural identity, economy, language, geography, and religious beliefs. For outsiders, a soon-to-be-released “Unified GCC Tourist Visa” will make exploring the region easier than ever. 

Officially known as the “GCC Grand Tours Visa”, this exciting new Schegan-like visa, will allow foreign tourists and, most likely, foreigners residing in the GCC to visit all six member states. Pundits predict this slashing of red tape will provide a much-needed tourism boost to the seldom-explored region.

It has already been approved and is currently expected to launch in late 2025 or early 2026, although the exact date is not yet confirmed. Until the unified visa launches, travelers should check the current visa regulations for each country. 

How to apply for the GCC unified tourist visa:

Although the application process has not gone through the final approval yet, the official GCC tourist visa’s website has issued the list of documents that will be typically required:

• A passport with at least six months validity and blank pages

• Completed online application form

• Passport-sized photo

• Proof of accommodation: Hotel bookings or host invitation 

• Travel insurance

• Evidence of sufficient funds: Bank statements

• Return or onward flight ticket

To apply, you’ll need to start the application process online by filling the form, submit the required document and pay the visa fees. Your visa submission will be reviewed and you’ll receive your approved GCC tourist visa via email.

As this process is not official yet, keep an eye on the official GCC unified tourist visa’s website for any updates.

GCC nationals currently enjoy visa-free access to all member states. However, foreign nationals residing in the GCC do not. At present, non-nationals must meet the entry requirements and obtain a visa for each GCC country.

Recent policy made it easier for GCC residents to benefit from access to several countries. For example, Kuwait now offers a VOA —visa on arrival — to all foreign GCC residents but should have at least six months’ valid residency permit. Saudi Arabia issues a one-year multiple-entry eVisa to GCC residents. Bahrain, Oman, Qatar, and the UAE each have their own eVisa systems or visa-free rules depending on nationality. 

At present, non-nationals must meet the entry requirements and obtain a visa for each GCC country. Learn more about visas for Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE. 

Thanks to its well-developed infrastructure and abundant low-cost fuel, getting around the GCC is convenient and affordable. 

Air travel

Dubai International Airport (DXB) is the region’s premier aviation hub, with countless connections serving the GCC and beyond. Many foreign travelers use Dubai as a base to explore the region — it’s a classic stopover destination. Other major GCC airports include Abu Dhabi (AUH), Doha (DOH), Riyadh (RUH), and Jeddah (JED). 

Full-service carriers like Emirates (based in Dubai), Etihad Airways (Abu Dhabi), and Qatar Airways (Doha) rank among the world’s best. Low-cost carriers, such as Fly Dubai, Air Arabia, Flynas, and Jazeera Airways, do cheap, no-thrills flights for budget-conscious adventurers.

Bus services

The best GCC buses have ice-cold A/C, lie-flat seats, and touchscreen entertainment systems. Consider forking out for a premium service on longer trips–or just fly. 

Recommended long-distance bus lines include:

• Saudi Arabia: SAPTCO, Northwest Bus

• United Arab Emirates: Dubai RTA, Abu Dhabi DOT, Sharjah RTA 

• Kuwait: Kuwait Public Transport Company (KPTC), CityBus Kuwait

• Qatar: Mowasalat (Karwa)

• Bahrain: Bahrain Public Transport Company (BPTC)

• Oman: Mwasalat

Rail transport

Dubai boasts a fully autonomous metro service plus a tram covering key areas of the city. Abu Dhabi, Jeddah, and Riyadh are developing rail networks–the latter is expected to open soon. 

There is currently no long-distance railway serving the region, although the ambitious GCC Railway project could open as soon as 2030. Upon completion, this high-speed service will span over 2,000 km and connect major cities in all six member states. 

Taxis and rideshares

Taxis are prevalent in all large GCC cities and mid-sized towns. Hail a cab off the street or reserve one by phone. By the way, most GCC taxis run on a meter. While there’s no need to negotiate, ensure the driver agrees to use the meter to avoid overcharging. Taxi drivers in major destinations usually speak passable English. 

For a set price and convenient GPS tracking, try a ridesharing app instead: Uber is available in major cities in all GCC states except Bahrain and Oman. 

Ferry services

While ferries aren’t a common way to travel, a handful of services connect coastal GCC cities to offshore islands and beyond:

• The Omani National Ferries Company (NFC) connects Shannah to Masirah Island and Shinas to Khasab 

• Abu Dhabi Maritime operates a ferry service for Al Saadiyat Island, Al Aliah Island, Dalma Island, and Al Dhana

• The Dubai Roads and Transport Authority regulates water taxis and water buses serving 40 pick-up points around the city

No international ferry services are available in the GCC at present. 

Car rent

The GCC is an epic road trip destination for travelers with a sense of adventure. If you’re confident behind the wheel, hiring a car gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace. 

Several car hire companies have offices in major airports and cities, including Hertz, Thrifty, Fast Rent a Car, Teglani, Sixt, and Avis. 

Regulations vary between companies and countries. On the whole, you must be over 21 and hold a valid driver’s license in your home country and an international driver’s permit — GCC residents can use their home country license.

Traditional Gulf transport

A classic GCC experience is the camel safari, where you trudge across towering desert dunes on a trusty hump-backed beast. Many include an overnight stay at a Bedouin camp with an evening banquet. Local tour companies offer these adventures from Dubai and Medina. 

Another quintessential vessel is the dhow, a wooden merchant ship with a distinct lateen sail. Sightseeing and sunset dinner cruises explore Dubai Creek and the Doha Corniche. Longer journeys sail across the Omani coastline over multiple days.

From simple, no-thrills hotels to palatial seaside resorts, the GCC accommodates every budget. This wealthy, well-developed region is a leading destination for high-end hotels. Destinations like Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Muscat, and Doha boast awe-inspiring architectural marvels. Standouts include the seven-star Burj Al Arab (Dubai), the Atlantis The Royal (Palm Jumeirah islands), the Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay, St. Regis Abu Dhabi, and the Raffles Doha.

For a taste of nature without sacrificing comfort, lux desert resorts immerse guests in unique Arabian landscapes. Crowd favourites include the Qasr Al Sarab (UAE) and the Desert Nights Resort (Oman).

Mid-range options abound. Well-known brands like the Hilton, Holiday Inn, and Ibis have a strong GCC presence. You’ll also find several trendy, small-scale boutiques, especially in traditional or bohemian districts like Souq Waqif in Doha and Adliya in Bahrain. 

Holiday homes — including Airbnb  — offer good value, especially for larger groups, and are common in the UAE, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia. 

A limited selection of simple, family-run guesthouses cater to budget travelers, particularly in Oman. Backpacker hostels only exist in major destinations like Muscat and Dubai.

Saudi Arabia is rapidly expanding its hotel capacity under Vision 2030, with new international brands opening in Riyadh, Jeddah, and AlUla. Desert and eco-resorts are becoming increasingly popular across the region, allowing travelers to enjoy the unique Arabian landscapes without sacrificing comfort. Apartments and Airbnb have also gained traction in the past years, particularly in the UAE, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia.

The best time to visit the GCC is from November to March. Maximum daily highs average a comfortable 28°C — 82°F — but prices are slightly higher due to increased demand. 

The shoulder seasons of April to May and September to October bring hot but manageable weather, with typical daytime temperatures hitting 30–35°C — 86–95°F. Popular destinations will be a little cheaper and less crowded.  

The Middle East sizzles over the summer — June to August — with daytime temperatures regularly exceeding 45°C — 113°F. Avoid this season unless you plan to spend all day sheltering with A/C indoors. 

The Gulf region isn’t all the same. Every city has its charm and offers an interesting outlook to the region’s culture. Here are the most famous destinations and suggestions on what you can do once you get there.

Dubai, UAE

This is the region’s big entry point, the place most travelers choose as their first GCC destination. Two or three days are enough to ride the elevator up the Burj Khalifa, wander the endless Dubai Mall, do a desert safari or a dhow ride at sunset. 

Abu Dhabi, UAE

A calmer and more traditional city than Dubai, yet impressive in its own way. The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and Louvre Abu Dhabi are two of the city’s landmarks. You can also squeeze in a coastal getaway to Saadiyat Island that’s only a few minutes away from Abu Dhabi downtown.

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

For years, Riyadh was seen as a business stop. But that’s changing now. Diriyah’s mud-brick heritage and the impressive skyline give the city two completely different faces. Set aside a couple of days if you’re curious about exploring the city.

AlUla, Saudi Arabia

If there’s one place that leaves people in awe when they travel to Saudi Arabia, it’s AlUla. The tombs of Hegra are breathtaking, the landscapes, the red cliffs, and canyons make it feel otherworldly. You’ll want to set aside two or three days here to take it in fully.

Doha, Qatar

A small destination that’s full of culture. You can walk the Corniche, get lost in Souq Waqif, and spend an afternoon at the Museum of Islamic Art, all in a single weekend. With Hamad International Airport as a hub, it also works as a one-night layover that actually feels like a visit.

Manama, Bahrain

A city that’s small in scale but full of history. Walk through Bahrain Fort enjoying the sunset, when the ruins glow gold, then head to Adliya where restored townhouses now hold art galleries and late-night cafés,

Muscat, Oman

Muscat trades skyscrapers for traditional whitewashed houses that are full of character. They stretch between the mountains and the sea, giving the city a more traditional feel. Start at the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, then wander though Muttrah’s corniche. And just short drive away, you can enjoy Omani nature: the famous wadis, long stretched of beaches and sand, or the green terraces of Jebel Akhdar.

Nizwa, Oman

A place where where you can discover the authentic Omani culture. You can wander through the different souqs and visit the fort towers. It’s an easy-to-pair destination with Muscat in a road trip.

Kuwait City, Kuwait

A charming capital that feels more toned down than its Gulf neighbors. The Kuwait Towers crown its skyline, while nearby you can wander Souq Al-Mubarakiya, browse rare Islamic art at the Tareq Rajab Museum, or sail the coast on a traditional dhow.

Travelers unfamiliar with the Gulf should learn its unique cultural norms. 

The GCC is a conservative region — modest dress is expected for men and women. Swimwear is only acceptable on beaches or near pools. Public displays of affection, including hand-holding, are frowned upon in many areas. Relations outside wedlock are often illegal, so unmarried couples should act with discretion. 

To avoid offending the locals, remove your shoes before entering a home and never refuse an invitation to eat or drink. Eating, drinking, and smoking in public is illegal during daylight hours Ramadan. Working hours tend to also change during Ramadan in GCC countries. Some hotels have a license to serve food behind closed doors. Always treat religion with respect, especially during a call to prayer, when shops may close briefly.

Medical expenses will stack up fast should you get ill or injured in Qatar. To protect yourself against an eye-watering hospital bill, invest in mandatory health insurance for visitors to Qatar It will cover you for emergency medical assistance, compensation, COVID-19, and medical evacuations.