Saudi Arabia has taken a significant step to bolster its tourism sector by extending e-visa services to citizens of six new countries – Turkey, Thailand, Mauritius, Seychelles, Panama, along Saint Kitts and Nevis.
E-Visa: Gateway to Discover Saudi
Announced by the Saudi Ministry of Tourism, this move allows nationals from these countries to apply for a visit visa electronically or upon arrival at any international entry point in the kingdom. The e-visa initiative facilitates tourism, Umrah performances, business visits, and social gatherings with relatives and friends.
Aligning with Vision 2030
This initiative aligns with the kingdom’s tourism strategy, and its Vision 2030 objectives, aiming to increase the tourism sector’s contribution to the GDP from 3% to over 10%, create an additional one million job opportunities prioritizing locals, and attract 100 million tourists by 2030.
Exploring Diverse Regions
The e-visa will enable individuals to explore different regions of the kingdom and perform Umrah rituals. The guidelines, issued by Tourism Minister Ahmed bin Aqil Al-Khatib, mandate tourists to adhere to the regulations and instructions, including always carrying identification documents during their stay.
Not Permit for Hajj
The ministry highlighted that the visit visa does not permit the performance of the Hajj pilgrimage and restricts Umrah performance during the Hajj season. This step is an extension of efforts to enhance Saudi Arabia’s openness and engagement with the world, besides supporting development and economic diversification, which are the core objectives of Vision 2030.
Step Towards Inclusive Tourism
Since the launch of the visit visa on September 27, 2019, targeting 49 countries, the addition of six new countries expands the list to 63. Last March, all GCC residents were also included, regardless of their profession, as part of the ministry’s efforts to allow all GCC residents to enjoy Saudi tourist destinations, participate in tourist and recreational activities, and get acquainted with Saudi heritage.
Future Expansion on Horizon
The Ministry of Tourism intends to broaden the e-visa system to include more countries and regions, coinciding with the ongoing development and expansion of the tourism sector’s infrastructure in Saudi Arabia.
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