GCC Announces Unified Civil Aviation Authority to Strengthen Regional Air Travel

The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) has announced the establishment of a Unified GCC Civil Aviation Authority, marking a major step toward closer cooperation in the region’s aviation sector.

The new authority aims to harmonise aviation laws, safety standards, and operational procedures across the six GCC member states: the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain, and Oman. The move is expected to improve safety, efficiency, and connectivity across the region’s air transport network.

Under the unified system, pilot licences issued in one GCC country would be recognised across the region, while maintenance and safety standards would follow a single framework. This approach is designed to reduce duplication, cut costs for airlines, and simplify regulatory processes.

According to aviation industry leaders, regulatory harmonisation will benefit everyone involved. Passengers can expect smoother journeys, airlines will face fewer administrative burdens, and governments will gain stronger oversight aligned with global best practices.

An early example of this cooperation is the “One Stop Travel” programme, launched in December 2025. The initiative allows passengers to complete immigration and security checks at their departure airport only, beginning with flights between the UAE and Bahrain.

Looking ahead, officials say the success of the Unified GCC Civil Aviation Authority will depend on clear governance, phased implementation, strong coordination between national and regional authorities, and alignment with international aviation standards set by ICAO.

IATA has welcomed the initiative and said it will support the GCC in implementing the new framework. The organisation believes the authority could become a key driver of growth, safety, and innovation in Middle Eastern aviation.

If successfully implemented, the Unified GCC Civil Aviation Authority could further strengthen the region’s reputation for operational excellence and high-quality passenger experience.