Riyadh (TDI): Saudi Arabia and Russia have signed a mutual visa-waiver agreement, allowing citizens of both countries to travel freely for tourism, business, or family visits.
The agreement was signed on Monday by Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan and Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak, during the Saudi–Russian Investment and Business Forum in Riyadh.
Under the new arrangement, citizens holding ordinary passports from either country can enter the other without a visa for up to 90 days, whether consecutively or cumulatively, within a single calendar year.
Russia becomes the first country with which Saudi Arabia has signed a mutual visa-waiver agreement covering holders of ordinary passports.
The accord demonstrates both countries’ dedication to simplifying travel, encouraging reciprocal visits, and enhancing tourism, trade, and cultural ties.
Both sides are hoping that the waiver will strengthen industries and initiatives that foster closer cooperation and partnership between their peoples.
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However, the visa waiver does not extend to those traveling for work, study, residency, or Hajj, all of which will still require the relevant visas.
A Saudi businessman, Ahmed Al-Otaibi, described the accord as a milestone that will encourage reciprocal visits and boost collaboration across tourism, trade, and cultural sectors.
Meanwhile, Law Professor and Adviser, Osama Ghanem Al-Obaidy, said the deal reflects the strong bonds between Riyadh and Moscow and will deliver tangible benefits for citizens and businesses alike.
Russian Deputy Prime Minister, Alexander Novak, speaking in a televised interview during his visit to Saudi Arabia, said that following the signing of the agreement, the legal steps to exchange notes and enforce the document will take place.
He added that, in his view, citizens could start visiting each other’s countries visa-free at the beginning of next year. Novak also said that both Russia and Saudi Arabia plan to expand direct air connectivity by increasing the number of airlines offering nonstop flights between the two nations.
Minahil Khurshid holds a master’s degree in Peace and Conflict Studies from CIPS, NUST. She has a strong interest in current affairs, geopolitics, and policy analysis.
