Starting July 1, 2025, Armenia will offer visa-free entry to GCC nationals and residents from the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Oman. The move boosts tourism and makes Armenia more accessible to Gulf travellers drawn to its culture, landscapes, and experiences.
Armenia has just made it easier for Gulf-based travellers to experience its historic charm and breathtaking landscapes. Beginning July 1, 2025, the country will implement a new visa-free policy, allowing both nationals and residents of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries to visit Armenia without requiring a visa. The announcement marks a significant step in deepening ties between Armenia and the Gulf region, reflecting Armenia’s broader strategy to boost tourism, economic engagement, and cultural exchange.
This travel-friendly decision is especially timely, as Gulf travellers are increasingly seeking accessible and authentic destinations within a few hours' flight. With its UNESCO-listed monasteries, mountain trails, warm hospitality, and thriving food scene, Armenia is a rising star for visitors looking to blend culture, history, and leisure.
What the new policy includes
The policy opens Armenia’s borders to a wide range of travellers:
- All passport holders from GCC countries—including the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain, and Oman—can now visit Armenia visa-free.
- GCC residents of other nationalities with valid residency permits (with at least 6 months' validity remaining) are also eligible for visa-free travel.
- Visitors can stay for up to 90 days within a 180-day period for tourism, leisure, or business purposes.
This inclusive approach is expected to resonate strongly with the Gulf’s diverse expatriate communities, many of whom are eager to explore new destinations that offer a blend of natural wonders and cultural depth.
A strategic tourism push
Armenia’s decision is not just a policy update—it’s a strategic milestone in tourism. According to Lusine Gevorgyan, Chairman of the Tourism Committee at the Ministry of Economy, the move highlights Armenia’s dedication to becoming more accessible and attractive to regional travellers.
“We look forward to welcoming more guests from the GCC who seek meaningful travel experiences—whether through our ancient monasteries, vibrant food scene, or immersive cultural festivals,” she said.
This announcement builds on earlier initiatives. Armenia had previously introduced visa-free entry for UAE nationals in 2017, Qatari nationals in 2019, and Kuwaiti nationals in 2022. Those steps laid the groundwork for this broader, region-wide invitation.
Boosting connections and business travel
Beyond leisure tourism, the policy is also designed to support deeper economic ties. Armenia is actively enhancing air connectivity and visitor infrastructure while increasing its promotional presence across global and regional markets. Gulf-based entrepreneurs and professionals seeking to explore business opportunities in Armenia will find this new policy particularly appealing, as it eliminates the visa processing barrier and facilitates short-term travel.
Why GCC travellers should put Armenia on their radar
Armenia offers an irresistible mix for Gulf travellers:
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Cultural immersion: From Yerevan’s vibrant arts scene to the centuries-old monasteries of Tatev and Geghard, Armenia offers a rich cultural experience.
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Natural beauty: Towering mountains, alpine lakes, and scenic trails make Armenia a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
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Gastronomic delights: The Armenian culinary scene is a flavorful journey that combines ancient recipes with modern innovation.
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Warm hospitality: Locals are renowned for their generosity, warmth, and deeply rooted traditions.
With visa requirements lifted, travellers from the Gulf can more freely indulge in Armenia’s offerings—whether it’s a summer escape, a winter wonderland trip, or a cultural deep dive.
This policy change signals Armenia’s growing openness and evolving role in the regional travel landscape. By making itself more accessible to GCC nationals and residents, Armenia is tapping into a large and travel-savvy market hungry for meaningful journeys. The move also highlights a trend toward greater regional integration, cultural exchange, and mutually beneficial tourism strategies.
As the summer travel season kicks off, Armenia’s visa-free policy for the Gulf could be just the beginning of a deeper relationship—one where shared interests, rich experiences, and new opportunities await.
For more information or to start planning your trip, visit https://armenia.travel.
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