The United Kingdom has announced significant changes to its immigration policies, making travel easier for citizens of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries and Jordan. As of February 22, 2024, citizens of Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates will be able to enter the UK without the need for a traditional visa. This comes after Qatar’s citizens were granted the same privilege on November 15, 2023.
One of the key elements of this new policy is the implementation of an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system, which will replace the need for a visa for short stays. Travelers from these countries will now only need to apply for an ETA online, at a small cost of £10. The ETA will be valid for two years and will simplify the travel process, allowing easier access to the UK for tourism and business purposes.
This move is part of the UK government’s broader plan to digitize its border control systems by 2025, aiming to improve security while offering a more efficient and streamlined experience for travelers. The ETA will serve as a digital travel permit for visitors entering or transiting through the UK, removing the need for a visa for short-term visits.
In addition to simplifying travel procedures, the new system is expected to reduce costs and make the process of entering the UK more straightforward. The UK government hopes these changes will strengthen ties with the Gulf region and Jordan, particularly in terms of tourism and business. Visitors from these regions are already significant contributors to the UK economy. In 2022 alone, more than 790,000 visitors from the Gulf countries spent around £2 billion during their stays.
The decision to introduce visa-free entry and the ETA system is seen as a strategic move to position the UK as a more accessible destination. It demonstrates the country’s commitment to fostering stronger international relations and keeping up with global changes in travel and immigration. By adopting these forward-thinking measures, the UK aims to remain at the forefront of facilitating secure and seamless entry for visitors from important regions.
This new visa-free and ETA policy highlights the UK’s progressive approach to immigration, offering a more flexible and efficient travel system for citizens of the GCC and Jordan. As the world increasingly moves towards digital solutions in travel and border management, the UK’s initiative ensures a smoother process that caters to the evolving needs of global mobility.