GCC Launches ‘One-Stop’ Travel System, Bahrain and UAE to Lead Trial Phase

Jasem Al-Budaiwi Announces GCC “One-Stop” Travel System Between Bahrain and UAE

Jasem Al-Budaiwi, Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), announced on Wednesday the approval of the first phase of a “one-stop” travel system. The system allows Gulf nationals to complete all travel procedures at a single point, without stopping at multiple checkpoints.

Trial Phase Between Bahrain and UAE

The system will first undergo a trial phase for air travel between the UAE and Bahrain in December. If successful, it will expand to all GCC member states.

Al-Budaiwi said, “The one-stop system will simplify travel for citizens, reduce waiting times, and improve security coordination across the region.” The system combines passport control, customs, and security checks in one location, making travel faster and more efficient. 

Benefits for Bahrain

Bahrain is the first GCC country to test the system. Citizens travelling to the UAE will benefit from shorter queues and faster processing, making business and leisure trips easier. The streamlined procedures are expected to boost tourism and trade, while the system’s connection to a GCC-wide database will strengthen security coordination and risk monitoring.

GCC Security Strategies

The 42nd GCC Interior Ministers meeting at Al-Bayan Palace in Kuwait approved a GCC-wide security strategy to combat money laundering from 2026 to 2030. Ministers also discussed linking traffic violations electronically across member states. Preparations were made for the first-ever GCC Security Conference in Abu Dhabi in 2027. Al-Budaiwi highlighted the importance of coordinated security efforts among GCC interior ministries and law enforcement agencies.

Recognition of Member States’ Efforts

The Secretary-General praised Kuwait for organising the meeting and Qatar, which will host a training workshop in February 2026. He also acknowledged the work of all GCC interior ministries in advancing regional security initiatives.

He noted achievements including the GCC strategy to combat drugs (2025–2028) and the successful linking of traffic violation systems across the region.

Commitment to Regional Stability

Al-Budaiwi concluded by reaffirming the GCC Secretariat’s commitment to support member states in implementing decisions and initiatives that enhance regional stability, safety, and security.