Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – Saudi Arabia announced new regulations on Thursday that will allow GCC residents to apply for an eVisa and for residents of the UK, US, and EU to apply for Visas on Arrival.
The story was first carried by TRENDS on August 13.
The regulations came into effect after the minister of tourism Ahmed Al-Khateeb signed on a ministerial decree, making it easier to visit the oil-rich kingdom.
Holders of a valid tourist or business visa from the UK, US or one of the Schengen Agreement countries continue to be able to apply for a Visa on Arrival, provided that it has been used at least once to enter the country granting the visa.
The ministerial decree removes the requirement of many would-be visitors to attend their country’s embassy before entering Saudi Arabia, increasing opportunities for potential travelers through a simplified visitor journey.
“Elevating the visitor experience is at the heart of the tourism sector’s future,” Al-Khateeb said. . “Through harnessing digital innovation and streamlining the traveler journey, Saudi Arabia is welcoming more and more visitors from all corners of the globe.”
He added that the move was an important step to develop a sustainable and competitive tourism sector.
The tourism ministry said in a statement that over 1 million eVisas have been issued since their launch in 2019.