GCC Launches New Unified Civil Aviation Authority

The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) has approved the formation of a unified Gulf Civil Aviation Authority, according to the announcement made by GCC Secretary-General Jasem Mohamed Al Budaiwi. 

Al Budaiwi shared the breaking news during the 46th GCC Summit in Bahrain on December 3, 2025, adding that the new unified aviation authority will have its headquarters in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). 

The GCC countries are home to over 23 international airports and operate 17 national airlines, six of which make it to the list of top 50 airlines globally for 2024. In 2023, 68 million passengers flew with GCC airlines. 

The landmark move was made following recommendations from the GCC Executive Committee for Civil Aviation, which met in Kuwait. The committee emphasized joint cooperation to improve safety and security standards. 

This initiative is also set to unify technical and regulatory standards, with the aim of making travel more seamless for passengers and implementing advanced technologies in the Gulf. 

Additionally, the GCC one-stop travel system pilot was rolled out between the UAE and Bahrain at the start of the week. This new system reduces redundant procedures by allowing travelers to complete immigration, customs declarations, and security checks through a single checkpoint.

With shorter waiting times, the system aims to improve the entry process for travelers. Officials shared that the system will be expanded to include all GCC member states if successful, but no timeline has been confirmed for a full operational implementation yet.