GCC residents can now apply for Saudi tourist visas, regardless of their professions.
The announcement to expand the visa programme was made yesterday by the Saudi Tourism Ministry. People wishing to visit Saudi Arabia can apply for a visa on www.visa.visitsaudi.com.
“The visa allows visitors to enjoy Saudi’s diverse tourist destinations and perform Umrah throughout the year,” said a spokesperson in a statement.
“The Visit Saudi app also provides a gateway for travellers to discover all the events, international festivals, inspiring tourism experiences, and enjoy the country’s climate, natural and cultural diversity, and the authentic generosity and hospitality of the Saudi people.
“In 2022, the Saudi Tourism Authority launched the Nusuk platform in collaboration with the Pilgrim Experience Programme.
“Nusuk, Saudi’s first-ever official integrated digital platform, offers all pilgrims and visitors an easy-to-use planning gateway for their journeys to Makkah and Madinah, and beyond. With Nusuk, travellers from all over the world can easily organise their entire visit, from applying for an eVisa to booking hotels and flights.”
According to the authority, more than 93 million visits were logged to the kingdom in 2022, with a goal of reaching 100m visits annually by 2030.