Tag: gcc

The GCC ID

Saw this link: Saudis, sovaldi sale Omanis Can Visit Each Other Without Passports. Which is great finally Saudi is opening up their borders and joining the rest of the GCC countries in the passport optional borders.

Then I read down to this paragraph stating that we will soon have a universal ID for all GCC countries:

Plans are also under way to issue a unified GCC identity card. The new electronic card will use smart card technology with common security features, applications and accessing devices. The main feature of the card, which will have both the GCC and the member country’s logos, is the “interoperability,” making its features readable in all member states.

This will be very interesting approach. I am worried from a couple points on this.

  • Who will own the data?

    • This is going to be the major force on this, will the data for each ID be located in respective country, and then accessed when needed, or mirrored to each country, or the scary part having a central server with all this information.

  • What data be stored in the smart card?

    • Smart cards are secure to some degree but can be hacked and manipulated, and in the wrong hands someone can easily access all your data on them. Such as medical records, crimnal report, and other personal data.

I for one am all for a GCC ID. It will really help us in trade and touristic opputunities. I can go to any GCC country open a business or rent an apartment without hassle or issue.