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Dubai: A Schenghen-type visa scheme for international visitors coming to the Gulf and a facility to waive visas for expatriate residents across the six Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries could accelerate the process of implementing a common Gulf market.
"This will help the regional integration plan," Dr. Mohammad Al Asoomi, an economist told Gulf News.
A common GCC market was theoretically put in place on January 1. Its implementation, however, will involve sweeping reforms to facilitate the movement of goods, capital and people.
"I am sure reforms to facilitate free movement of people will be implemented this year to help create the common market," Al Asoomi said.
Currently, the 22 million GCC nationals, who comprise about 60 per cent of the region's population, can move across the borders without a visa.
Saudi Arabia, the biggest country, does not even offer tourist or visit visas and therefore stands as the biggest obstacle to facilitating free movement.
Roughly, 14 million of the 36 million Gulf population are expatriates, who contribute significantly to the region's economy.
With a combined GDP of $750 billion, the region hosts two of the Arab world's biggest economies - Saudi Arabia and the UAE.
Mohammad Obaid Al Mazrouei, assistant secretary general of the GCC for economic affairs confirm-ed there are consultations on the possibility of a Schenghen-type visa plan.
"As for allowing expatriate residents to move freely between the six GCC countries, it depends upon their profession and not nationality," he said, adding that investment and marketing managers will benefit from this measure.
- With inputs from Mariam Al Hakeem, our correspondent in Saudi Arabia.
Your comments
I appreciate the move but in my view, Saudi Arabia should continue its strict visa rules as it is important to safeguard the country. Other GCC members should not force Saudi Arabia to adopt their rules.
Kasim
Dubai,UAE
Posted: January 06, 2008, 14:17
This seems a good move but the authorities should also extend this to the permanent residents of the GCC.
Faisal
Dubai,UAE
Posted: January 06, 2008, 10:44
I think it is a very good move. But it should not be limited to certain professions but extended to all expatriates who want to travel across the borders and visit their relatives working in the Gulf. Not only will this strengthen ties between the GCC but also boost tourism.
Roberto
Dubai,UAE
Posted: January 06, 2008, 10:41
I absolutely support this idea. I am working in Saudi Arabia and I know the rules to enter and exit the country are a bit strict. The new move would definitely increase the integrity of the GCC and offer more opportunities to the residents.
Babu
Jeddah,Saudi Arabia
Posted: January 06, 2008, 10:31
It is good for the country as a whole, and also for the people who want free movement of goods and a big market.
Nalleye
Ajman,UAE
Posted: January 06, 2008, 10:21
It is a good effort. It will bring regional prosperity, economic harmony and new job opportunities to the Gulf.
Mohammad
Abu Dhabi,UAE
Posted: January 06, 2008, 10:02
Even if Saudi Arabia is not willing to cooperate in this venture, the other GCC countries should go ahead with it. I think the GCC should also have a common currency.
Ahmad
Sharjah,UAE
Posted: January 06, 2008, 09:54
I appreciate this move. I think it will increase the tourism of all the six GCC countries.
Murtaza
Dubai,UAE
Posted: January 06, 2008, 07:16
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