Saudi Arabia’s new plan for regulating tourism visas, which includes 13 items, aligns with the Kingdom’s efforts to develop the tourism sector and the objectives of Kingdom Vision 2030, according to experts.
Single-entry visas are valid for three months and multiple-entry visas last for one year. The single-entry option allows travelers to stay in Saudi Arabia for a maximum of one month, while there is a 90-day length of stay for multiple-entry visas. Applicants cannot specify which option they want — this will be decided on a case by case basis by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Economists believe that the new regulation is flexible and contributes to revitalizing the tourism sector in an adaptable and disciplined manner.
Faisal Al-Fadel, Saudi Shura Council member, said that the tourism sector is one of the offshoots of economic development and one of the most important sectors that generate direct and indirect job opportunities and contributes to promoting comprehensive development.
“New regulations are important in that they contribute to the development of the economy and encourage tourism and investments in the Kingdom,” Al-Fadel told Asharq Al-Awsat.
Al-Fadel added that Saudi Arabia has taken great and rapid steps in developing its tourism sector and has become an important global destination.
He also pointed out that the geographical location of the Kingdom contributes significantly to increasing the number of tourists in the coming years.
Al-Fadel reiterated that new regulations and legislation are of great importance in opening the way for everyone to visit and enjoy Saudi Arabia.
Moreover, Al-Fadel said that regulations directly contribute to advancing the goals of Vision 2030 and promoting tourism in Saudi Arabia.
