Kuwait has officially begun allowing residents of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries to obtain a tourist visa on arrival, a move aimed at enhancing regional travel and tourism. The announcement was made by First Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister of Kuwait, HE Sheikh Fahad Yousef Saud Al-Sabah, and published on Sunday in the official gazette, Kuwait Alyoum, according to local media reports.

Under the new regulation, any foreign national residing in a GCC member state with a valid residency permit will be eligible to enter Kuwait and obtain a tourist visa upon arrival. To qualify, applicants must have a residence permit in a GCC country that is valid for at least six months. The visa will be issued directly at the port of entry, streamlining the process for eligible visitors.

This decision, which takes immediate effect, updates and builds upon a 2008 regulation governing entry to GCC countries for tourism purposes. By easing travel requirements for GCC residents, Kuwait aims to strengthen tourism ties within the region, encourage cross-border visits, and support economic and cultural exchange among Gulf states.