Citizens of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries – Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Qatar, Kuwait, Oman, and Bahrain – will be granted visa-free access to Kyrgyzstan from January 4, 2025.
This move aims to strengthen bilateral ties, increase tourism, and attract more investment and business from the region.
The new policy will allow nationals from the GCC to stay in Kyrgyzstan for up to 60 days within any 120-day period, making it easier for tourists and business travellers alike to enjoy all that this Central Asian gem has to offer.
The policy extends a similar benefit previously enjoyed by Saudi nationals, with now all six GCC countries eligible for the same privileges.
The UAE in focus
Among the GCC countries, the UAE stands out, with its thriving tourist sector and growing business presence in Central Asia. Emirati citizens will benefit from the new visa-free regime, opening opportunities for travel, leisure, and investment in Kyrgyzstan. With this move, Kyrgyzstan expects to see a surge in visitors from the UAE, eager to explore the country's natural beauty and emerging market.
Applying for visa-free travel
For citizens of the UAE and other GCC countries planning a visit to Kyrgyzstan, the process is simple, as long as they remain within the 60-day limit.
- Prepare your documents: No visa application is needed for stays under 60 days. However, your passport must be valid for at least 90 days beyond your planned stay.
- Stay within the 60-day limit: Be mindful that the visa-free period is capped at 60 days within a 120-day timeframe. Exceeding this limit requires a visa.
- For longer stays or work: If you plan to stay longer or engage in business, education, or employment, ensure you apply for the appropriate visa through Kyrgyzstan's consular services.
For those unsure about specific visa conditions or who may want to stay beyond 60 days, consulting the Kyrgyz consulate is advised. The embassy provides updated guidelines, visa application details, and assistance for travellers.
What it means for UAE travellers
This new visa policy is expected to foster growth in both tourism and economic ties between Kyrgyzstan and the GCC. For Emirati citizens, this could mean an increase in travel options, as well as opportunities to explore Kyrgyzstan’s rapidly developing investment climate, especially in sectors like infrastructure and tourism.
Kyrgyzstan’s government has made significant strides to simplify visa procedures for a range of countries. Recent initiatives, such as the introduction of a visa-free regime for organised tourist groups from China, reflect the nation’s ongoing efforts to attract international tourists and boost foreign investment.