The Gulf countries have been on the radar of Indians looking for job opportunities for decades. In the recent years, many of these countries have gained popularity as tourist destinations as well for Indian citizens. If you are planning your international holiday, visiting these top Gulf countries will be a good choice. Of course after the situation there becomes normal, hopefully at the earliest.

Most of the Gulf countries are known for their desert landscapes, modern luxuries, state-of-the-art infrastructure, and interesting cultures. Apart from these, the short flight duration (3-4 hours) and good flight connectivity are important reasons why Indian citizens choose the Gulf region for their holiday. Moreover, the presence of large Indian diaspora in these regions makes them a favorite among Indians.

1.The United Arab Emirates

If there is one country that must be on the top of this list, it has to be the UAE. United Arab Emirates is home to a large Indian expat community. The most commonly visited emirate in the UAE is Dubai. A glamorous city, Dubai is home to an array of world record holding attractions. You have the likes of Burj Khalifa, Palm Jumeirah, IMG Worlds of Adventure, Dubai Miracle Garden, and more. The capital emirate of Abu Dhabi has world-class islands, theme parks, palatial hotels, beautiful beaches, and more.

The other emirates, especially Ras Al Khaiamh, Sharjah, and Fujairah, are known for their natural landscapes, adventurous activities, and cultural and historical attractions.

Visa Details: Indian tourists are eligible for electronic UAE or Dubai tourist visa. This visa is available for 30 days and 60 days, as single-entry and multiple-entry visa. The process of getting this visa is simple. You need to submit the scanned copies of a few important documents and pay the visa fee. You will get your e-visa within 3-4 working days.

2. Oman

If you want to explore a place that is quieter and more serene than the UAE, its neighboring country, Oman will be a good option. The tourist crowd here is low, giving you the chance to explore the history, culture, and architecture of the place peacefully. This Middle Eastern country is endowed with breathtaking natural beauty that goes beyond the deserts.

Oman is endowed with dramatic desert landscapes, mighty mountains, colorful wadis, and beautiful coastlines and beaches. The country is also known for its historic architecture, especially in its capital city, Muscat. Muscat Grand Mosque, Wadi Shab, Wahiba Sands Desert, and Nizwa Fort are a few of the must-visit places here.

Visa Details: Oman visa is also available as an electronic or e-visa for Indians. Oman e-visa is available for 10 days and 30 days. Both single and multiple entry visas are available. If you have all the right documents, you will get your Oman visa within 3-5 business days.

3. Qatar

Qatar is a Middle Eastern country where modernity blends beautifully with the rich Arabian culture and heritage. The country is small and compact, and the perfect place to test the waters if you are new to international travel in the Gulf region. The most-visited place here is the capital, Doha, which is known for its cultural attractions and architectural marvels.

The museums here (Museum of Islamic Art and The National Museum of Qatar) are your doors into the history, religion, and culture of the country. Then there is Souq Waqif, which will give you a glimpse into the region’s past. Apart from all these, the view of the cityscape of Doha filled with futuristic buildings is also worth admiring.

Visa Details: Qatar offers visa-on-arrival to Indian nationals. This visa is valid for 30 days. The documents required to get a Qatar visa-on-arrival are valid passport, confirmed return tickets, confirmed hotel booking, etc.

4. Saudi Arabia

If there is a country that describes the idiom of “road less travelled” in the Gulf region, it has to be Saudi Arabia. The country opened its doors to tourists few years ago. And there is much to explore in the desert country of Saudi Arabia. You can get to know about the ancient history and heritage of the nation in AlUla, Hegra, and even in the historic districts in Diriyan and Jeddah.

The country also has stunning natural landscapes, including the Empty Quarter deserts and the breathtaking Red Sea. Riyadh and NEOM are a must visit to know about the futuristic developments of Saudi. If you are an adventurous person, you must try snorkeling and diving to explore the underwater world of the Red Sea.

Visa Details: Saudi offers multiple-entry tourist e-visa to Indian citizens. This visa is valid for one year, although the duration of the stay cannot be more than 90 days. Indian citizens who have a valid US, UK, or Schengen visa are eligible for visa-on-arrival in Saudi.

5. Kuwait

If you want to know more about the authentic Arabic culture, Kuwait is the country you must visit. Located between Saudi Arabia and Iraq, Kuwait is rarely on the bucket list of Indian travelers. But this country, which is steeped in oil-rich luxury is definitely worth visiting, especially if you want to avoid the heavy tourist crowd of other more popular Gulf countries. The white sand beaches flanked by turquoise waters are one of the main reasons to visit this country.

The iconic architecture of the place, including the tall Kuwait Towers, is something you must check out. Traditional markets, culturally rich museums, parks, mosques, and palaces are a few other spots you must explore in Kuwait. The best places of interest in this country include the Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmad Cultural Centre, Mirror House, Green Island, the Grand Mosque of Kuwait, Liberation Tower, and more.

Visa Details: Indian passport holders can get access to 14-day Kuwait e-visa while visiting the country for business, tourist, visitor, and transit purposes. The visa can be extended for 14 additional days.

6. Bahrain

The next country on the list is Bahrain, the only island country in the Gulf region. It is an archipelago with 33 islands, with Manama as its capital. Although a small country, Bahrain has a deep-rooted history, going back to 5000 years, which is juxtaposed with modern luxuries of life. Sightseeing in Bahrain will take you to historical sights like the Dilmun Burial Mounds, Bahrain Fort, etc., which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

For a cultural experience, a visit to Bahrain National Museum, Al Fateh Grand Mosque, and Manama Souq is a must. Modern attractions that you must visit in the country are the Marassi Aquarium and Underwater Park, Bahrain Bay area, the Lost Paradise of Dilmun Water Park, and more.

Visa Details: Bahrain has 14-day (single-entry) and 90-day (multiple-entry) e-visas for Indian citizens. When applied online, you will get the visa in 3-5 business days. 14-day visa-on-arrival is also available for Indians.

The top Gulf countries for Indians have a lot to offer to tourists, especially those who are looking for a quick getaway. You can choose to holiday at one of these countries that interest you or plan different holidays at each of these places to enjoy their unique culture and lifestyle.

This is a Guest Post by Nishita Khanwani. Nishita is a passionate traveler and a travel writer with experience creating engaging, well-researched content for travel audiences.

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