EU Eases Visa Rules for Saudi Arabia, Oman, and Bahrain Citizens
In a groundbreaking move, the EU has announced the relaxation of visa rules for citizens of Saudi Arabia, Oman, and Bahrain. This decision comes after the European Commission adopted three implementing decisions updating the rules on issuing multi-entry visas for the three Gulf countries.
High-Level Forum on Regional Security and Cooperation
The announcement was made at the EU-GCC High-Level Forum on Regional Security and Cooperation in Luxembourg. The Saudi delegation, led by Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan, discussed enhancing security and strategic cooperation between the Gulf states and the EU. The meeting also addressed developments in the Gaza Strip and the importance of reaching an immediate ceasefire.
New Visa Rules for Multiple Entries
Under the new visa rules, nationals living in Bahrain, Oman, and Saudi Arabia will be eligible for multiple-entry visas that allow them to visit the EU multiple times over a period of five years with the same visa. This move is part of the “cascade” concept, a harmonized approach to issuing multiple-entry visas with long validity for all eligible applicants, including first-time travelers.
Strengthening People-to-People Relations
The implementation of the five-year visa rule marks a significant step forward in strengthening people-to-people relations between the EU and the GCC. This update aims to standardize visa regulations for all GCC countries whose citizens require visas to access the Schengen Area.
Path Towards a Schengen Waiver
Experts view this move as a preliminary step toward a Schengen waiver. The Schengen Area, which includes 29 European countries and is the largest free-travel zone globally, expanded last February to include Bulgaria and Romania, eliminating all air and maritime border controls. A decision on the removal of land controls will be made later.
Unified Tourist Visa Plans
In November, Gulf countries announced plans for a unified tourist visa similar to Schengen, aiming to streamline logistical efforts for both residents and tourists. This move signifies a closer relationship between the EU and the Gulf countries, paving the way for more seamless travel and cooperation in the future.