Why are Iraq and Iran Excluded from the Gulf Cooperation Council’s Schengen-Mode New Single Visa Policy?

Friday, June 7, 2024

Why Iraq and Iran are left out of the GCC’s new Schengen-mode single visa policy, launching in December 2024.

Despite sharing borders and cultural ties with the Gulf region, Iraq and Iran are not part of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). The exclusion of these two countries can largely be attributed to political, security, and ideological differences that have historically strained their relationships with GCC member states. In particular, the GCC, predominantly composed of Sunni-led governments, has viewed Shiite-majority Iran with suspicion, often accusing it of fostering instability in the region through its support of various non-state actors. Iraq, with its complex political landscape and history of conflict, also presents security concerns for the GCC nations, which prioritize stability and uniformity in their cooperative endeavors. Furthermore, economic and foreign policy discrepancies further complicate any moves toward including Iraq and Iran in the GCC framework. These factors collectively contribute to their current non-member status, although future geopolitical shifts could potentially alter this dynamic.

As the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) prepares to launch its innovative Schengen-style single visa in December 2024, the focus intensifies on the strategic integration and travel facilitation within its member states—Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates.

Established in 1981, the GCC has been a pivotal force in fostering economic, social, and political partnerships among its six Arab member countries. The council initiated a common market in 2008 and a patent office in 1992, marking significant milestones towards regional integration. The introduction of a unified tourist visa follows these initiatives, aiming to streamline travel across the GCC nations and boost the regional tourism sector.

TTW Editor in Chief Mr. Anup Kumar Keshan: The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), an important regional body comprising six Arab countries: Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. These nations collaborate to enhance political and economic integration within the region. The GCC has initiated significant projects such as the establishment of a common market in 2008 and the creation of a patent office in 1992, which have been pivotal in strengthening ties and fostering cooperation among its members. This background is crucial in understanding the context of the GCC’s ongoing efforts, including the upcoming introduction of a Schengen-mode single visa policy.

Despite sharing geographic proximity in the Gulf region, Iraq and Iran remain outside the GCC framework. Political tensions, security concerns, and differing political agendas have historically impeded their inclusion. However, ongoing dialogues suggest a potential future where these nations could join the GCC, which would extend the benefits of the new visa policy across the entire Gulf region.

The new visa system, unanimously approved at the 40th GCC ministers’ meeting in Oman, is a landmark move expected to transform regional travel. This visa will enable tourists and business travelers to move freely across the GCC states, enhancing the appeal of the region as a contiguous travel destination. The details of the visa, including its cost and specific entry requirements, are yet to be disclosed, but its impact on tourism is anticipated to be significant.

Travel professionals, including agents and tour operators within the GCC, are gearing up to take full advantage of the forthcoming visa policy. They are crafting comprehensive itineraries that promise travelers an unprecedented opportunity to explore the rich diversity and cultural heritage of the Gulf region seamlessly.

Looking ahead, the potential inclusion of Iraq and Iran into the GCC could further amplify the benefits of this new visa policy, creating a unified Gulf region with vast opportunities for economic growth and cultural exchange. As we approach the visa’s launch in December 2024, the GCC stands on the brink of ushering in a new era of regional connectivity and international tourism appeal.

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