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Launch of GCC ‘Schengen-style’ tourist visa pushed to 2026 as UAE and neighbours need more time for security integration

Launch of GCC ‘Schengen-style’ tourist visa pushed to 2026 as UAE and neighbours need more time for security integration

The GCC has postponed its long-awaited unified tourist visa until 2026 because member states, including the UAE, need more time to align immigration databases, security checks and revenue-sharing procedures. The new timeline means companies must continue using individual country visas for at least another year, but it also gives businesses and airlines more lead-time to adapt systems and policies. Once operational, the visa is expected to boost regional tourism and simplify travel logistics for visitors and corporate assignees alike.

Jan 23, 2026
UAE opens Golden Visa to charity and Waqf donors in bid to anchor long-term philanthropy

UAE opens Golden Visa to charity and Waqf donors in bid to anchor long-term philanthropy

Dubai has created a new Golden Visa pathway for individuals who donate at least AED 2 million to approved charitable or Waqf projects. The partnership between GDRFA-Dubai and Awqaf Dubai streamlines nominations, giving philanthropists—and by extension their families—10-year residency. The policy strengthens the UAE’s humanitarian brand and offers multinational employers another incentive tool to attract or retain high-value talent.

Jan 23, 2026
Schengen appointment bottlenecks trigger early summer-holiday booking frenzy among UAE residents

Schengen appointment bottlenecks trigger early summer-holiday booking frenzy among UAE residents

European consulates in the UAE are facing severe appointment backlogs, forcing residents to lock in Schengen visa applications and travel bookings six months ahead of summer 2026. The early rush is inflating airfare and hotel prices and creating scheduling headaches for both holidaymakers and business-travellers. Companies are revising travel timelines, while agents call for faster digital-visa reforms.

Jan 23, 2026

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