Foreign nationals residing in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) regions now have the option to obtain a tourist visa upon arrival in Kuwait.
Simplified Tourist Visa Entry for GCC Residents in Kuwait
In a significant move to boost tourism, strengthen regional ties, and streamline travel for expatriates living in Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states, Kuwait has introduced a new tourist visa policy. The First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousef, has approved Decree Law No. 114/2024, which allows foreign residents of any GCC country to obtain a tourist visa upon arrival at any Kuwaiti port of entry [1][2][3].
The new regulation applies to foreigners who hold a valid residency permit in a GCC member state for a minimum of six months. This change repeals the earlier Decision No. 1228/2008, which imposed professional and nationality restrictions on tourist visa applications [1].
The reformed policy aims to facilitate easier and more inclusive tourist visa access for GCC residents. The visa can now be obtained directly at the port of entry in Kuwait, eliminating the need for prior embassy applications [2].
The decision has been published in the official gazette Kuwait Alyawm. The new regulation does not specify any restrictions based on nationality or country of origin, nor does it mention requirements for travel insurance or health certificates [1][2][3].
However, it is unclear whether nationals holding Iraqi or Palestinian passports with valid GCC residency are eligible under the new rules [3]. As always, entry remains prohibited for holders of Israeli passports, due to Kuwait's longstanding boycott policy [3][4].
This update reflects Kuwait’s effort to align its policies with regional visa reforms and modernize entry procedures [1][4]. The new regulation aims to streamline entry procedures for tourists from within the Gulf region.
It is essential to note that the new regulation allows foreigners residing in any GCC country to enter Kuwait on a tourist visa, provided they hold a valid GCC residency permit. The regulation does not specify any age restrictions for visitors [1][2][3].
In conclusion, Decree Law No. 114/2024 facilitates easier, more inclusive tourist visa access for foreign GCC residents by offering visas on arrival, eliminating earlier professional and nationality restrictions [1][2][3][5]. This move is expected to boost tourism and foster closer ties within the GCC region.
The new tourist visa policy in Kuwait allows foreign residents of any Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) country to enjoy a simplified entry, as they can now obtain a visa upon arrival at any Kuwaiti port of entry. This change in lifestyle, facilitated by the reformed policy, encourages travel amongst GCC residents, fostering a stronger regional bond.
%20regions%20now%20have%20the%20option%20to%20obtain%20a%20tourist%20visa%20upon%20arrival%20in%20Kuwait.){kind=link}