Saudi Arabia has further simplified the process of obtaining a tourist visa. According to the new decision, citizens of four countries can now obtain an instant electronic tourist visa (e-visa) online without visiting an embassy. Additionally, they will have the option to receive a visa upon arrival in Saudi Arabia.
The Saudi Arabian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Tourism jointly announced this on Saturday (November 7). This information was reported by the news outlet Arab News.
The four countries covered by this new facility are Mexico, Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and North Macedonia. Citizens of these countries can apply for a tourist visa online, allowing multiple entries. They also have the option to obtain a visa upon arrival at any entry point in Saudi Arabia.
With this new visa, visitors to Saudi Arabia can perform Umrah, participate in various events, exhibitions, and conferences. Additionally, travellers can visit relatives and friends residing in the country.
Guillermo Gutiérrez, Mexico’s Chargé d’Affaires to Saudi Arabia, told Arab News that this new facility would help foster cooperation between the two countries in trade, investment, education, culture, aviation, and technology sectors. He expressed hope that the simplified visa process would also enhance communication among the general public of both nations.
Dragan Bisenic, Serbia’s Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, welcomed the decision. In his view, the new system would simplify the process for Serbian citizens to travel to Saudi Arabia and perform Umrah. He also believes it will deepen relations between the two countries.
However, certain conditions have also been set for the new visa. Travellers must depart Saudi Arabia within the specified visa validity period. There will be no opportunity to renew the visa before its expiry. For multiple-entry visas, the duration of each stay or the total cumulative stay must remain within the prescribed limit.
Furthermore, this visa cannot be used for any paid employment or work for remuneration. While Umrah is permitted, it will not be possible to perform Umrah with this visa during the designated Hajj season.
Through this new initiative, the Saudi Arabian government aims to enhance international connectivity in the tourism sector and further simplify the travel process to the country.