August 26, 2024 – Islamabad, Pakistan
In a bold move to invigorate its tourism sector and attract foreign investment, the Pakistani government has announced a new visa-free policy for citizens of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. Effective immediately, nationals from Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) can now enter Pakistan without the need for a visa and stay for up to 90 days.
The policy, aimed at fostering closer economic and cultural ties with the GCC, represents a significant step in Pakistan’s broader strategy to enhance its global tourism appeal. Immigration authorities across the nation’s airports have been directed to ensure a smooth and efficient implementation of this new entry scheme.
In addition to the visa-free access for GCC countries, Pakistan has also unveiled new guidelines that will permit travelers from 120 other countries to enter under a visa grant notice. This expanded measure is designed to facilitate easier access for a larger number of international visitors, further supporting the country’s ambition to bolster its tourism industry.
The Pakistani government anticipates that these initiatives will not only increase tourist arrivals but also stimulate investment opportunities, particularly in sectors such as hospitality, real estate, and infrastructure.
