Saudi Arabia expands tourist visa access: Here are the changes

Saudi Arabia has expanded its streamlined tourist visa programme to citizens of Kosovo and Guyana, giving eligible travellers from the two countries additional options for entering the Kingdom.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced that citizens of the Republic of Kosovo and the Co-operative Republic of Guyana can now obtain Saudi tourist visas online or upon arrival at entry points across the Kingdom.

The latest expansion adds both countries to the list of nationalities eligible for Saudi Arabia’s simplified tourist visa procedures.

What has changed?

The key change is that eligible citizens of Kosovo and Guyana can now use streamlined visa procedures rather than applying through traditional visa channels.

Travellers can obtain the visa:

• Electronically before travelling
• On arrival at Saudi entry points, subject to applicable requirements

What can the visa be used for?

The tourist visa provides access to Saudi Arabia for several purposes, including:

• Tourism and leisure
• Attending events
• Visiting exhibitions and conferences
• Performing Umrah
• Visiting relatives and friends

The expanded access is expected to make it easier for visitors from Kosovo and Guyana to experience Saudi Arabia’s cultural and tourism attractions and attend the Kingdom’s growing programme of international events.

The move forms part of Saudi Arabia’s broader efforts to simplify entry procedures and attract visitors from a wider range of countries as it continues developing its tourism sector.

The expansion also supports the Kingdom’s efforts to increase international tourism as part of its wider economic diversification strategy.