KSATravel

Saudi Arabia announces new visa rules for GCC residents

All residents can now apply for a tourist visa regardless of their profession.

Travelling to Saudi Arabia is getting a whole lot easier. The Ministry of Tourism announced that all GCC residents can now apply for a visit visa into the Kingdom – irrespective of the visitor’s profession. So, if you want to explore the country, here’s what you need to know. 

Saudi Arabia is filled with amazing travel experiences, from UNESCO World Heritage Sites to homegrown restaurants. Thanks to the new visa rules, travellers can make the most of the Kingdom. Visitors can apply for a multiple-entry visa, which lasts up to 90 days. The visa is valid for one year, and allows the holder to perform Umrah, except during the Haj season. Visitors can also apply for a single-entry visa, which lasts up to 30 days and is valid for three months.

The applicant must complete separate visa forms for each member of their family, and must accompany the family members when entering the country. In order to apply, applicants must be at least 18 years old. The applicant’s passport must be valid for at least six months. The applicant must have a GCC country residency ID, which is valid for at least three months. Plus, the cost of an eVisa to Saudi Arabia is SAR 300.

The Kingdom recently announced that travellers could get a 96-hour Stopover Visa along with their flight tickets. The visa includes one night’s complimentary stay in a hotel, and is open to a wide range of countries. Plus, the traveller is allowed to perform Haj and Umrah.

Previously, Saudi Arabia had a list of accepted professions which GCC residents had to meet. Now, this has changed, the Kingdom has become more accessible to travellers. If you’re looking for travel inspiration while you are in the country, check out our itinerary for the best things to do in Riyadh. 

GO: Visit www.visitsaudi.com for more information.

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Kohinoor Sahota - Deputy Editor
A sucker for a good story, if you invite Kohinoor to a gallery, comedy night, new restaurant, hiking trip, cycle ride, pool day or just about any activity, she’ll probably say yes – that is if she isn’t busy planning her next adventure.

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