KINGSTON, Jamaica — In a bid to attract more visitors from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region, Jamaica’s Minister of Tourism, Edmund Bartlett, has announced plans to review visa facilitation.

Speaking at a recent press conference at Arabian Travel Market in Dubai, Bartlett emphasised the untapped potential of GCC visitors, citing their increasing interest in Caribbean experiences, higher-than-average spending patterns and tendency toward longer stays.

According to Bartlett, the review will focus on simplifying visa application processes for visitors from the region.

“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 recognise the significant economic potential of visitors from the GCC region,” said Bartlett.

“By removing unnecessary barriers to travel, we are sending a clear message that our country welcomes GCC visitors with open arms,” Bartlett added.

Currently, visitors from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) can get a visa on arrival, but Bartlett is convinced that changes to this arrangement could increase the numbers from the 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 their visitors to seriously consider Jamaica as a vacation option and allow us to tap into this lucrative market,” added Bartlett.

The Ministry of Tourism announced that Jamaica saw a 29 per cent increase in visitor arrivals from the GCC in 2024. The UAE led with a 37.3 per cent 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 partners to provide various packages and experiences for visitors from the region,” said Director of Tourism Donovan White.

Bartlett led a small delegation at the Arabian Travel Market, which was 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.