About GCC

The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) comprises the States of United Arab Emirates, Kingdom of Bahrain, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Sultanate of Oman, State of Qatar, and State of Kuwait; its headquarters is in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Established in 1981, the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) aims to further common regional economic and social goals, including the standardization of regulations, establishment of a common currency, and strengthening of ties among the citizens of the member states. In 2003, GCC members eliminated tariffs on trade between member nations and established common external tariffs. They have agreed to establish a broader economic union including a single market and currency by 2010; a common market was established in 2008.

The GCC aims to:

• achieve coordination, integration and close ties leading to unity between the Member States;deepen the ties,
  relations and all aspects of cooperation between the peoples of the region;
• adopt similar systems and laws in: economics and financial affairs; commercial, customs and transportation affairs;
• education and cultural affairs; social and health affairs; communication, informational, political, legislative and administrative affairs;
• Encourage progress in the sciences and technologies involved in industry, mining, agriculture, water and animal resources, and to establish scientific research centers and to undertake joint projects.