Minister of Tourism, Hon Edmund Bartlett, announced a major push to streamline visa procedures for visitors from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region, aiming to boost tourism and strengthen economic ties.
The new measures will focus on simplifying visa application processes for visitors from Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Oman.
“I have been in discussion with our Ministers of National Security and Foreign Affairs to look at more seamless ways for visa facilitation as we recognize the significant economic potential of visitors from the GCC region,” said the Minister during the announcement at a press conference at Arabian Travel Market in Dubai. “By removing unnecessary barriers to travel, we are sending a clear message that our country welcomes GCC visitors with open arms.”
Currently, visitors from the UAE can get a visa on arrival but changes to this arrangement could increase the numbers from the overall GCC and generate substantial revenue for Jamaica’s tourism sector.
“The GCC is the new frontier for Jamaica as we seek to diversify our source markets. Simplifying this visa arrangement will make it easier for visitors from the GCC to seriously consider Jamaica as a vacation option and allow us to tap into this lucrative market,” added Minister of Tourism, Hon Edmund Bartlett.
Jamaica saw a 29% increase in visitor arrivals from the GCC in 2024. The UAE led with a 37.3% year-on-year growth, followed by strong performances from Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Qatar.
“We are already seeing an uptick in interest from the region, and we are working assiduously with our tour operators and other agencies to provide various packages and experiences for visitors from the region,” said Donovan White, Director of Tourism.
The Minister is leading a small delegation at Arabian Travel Market being held at the Dubai World Trade Centre from April 28 to May 1. It is one of the leading global travel and tourism events, bringing together industry professionals and government representatives from across the world.
