Saudi Arabia, Russia sign mutual visa exemption agreement

The signing ceremony, which came on the sidelines of the Saudi–Russian Investment and Business Forum in Riyadh

Saudi Arabia and Russia signed today, Dec. 1, a mutual visa exemption agreement for citizens of both countries on the sidelines of the Saudi–Russian Investment and Business Forum in Riyadh.

The agreement covers all categories of passports — diplomatic, special and ordinary — and allows visa-free entry for visits, including tourism, business and visits to relatives and friends. It permits stays of up to 90 days, whether consecutive or on separate visits, within a single calendar year, the state-run Saudi Press Agency (SPA) reported.

The agreement reflects the commitment of both countries to facilitate entry procedures for their citizens, boost reciprocal visits and strengthen cooperation in the tourism, economic, and cultural fields. It is also expected to support sectors that enhance partnership between the two nations and their peoples.

The agreement does not apply to those entering for work, study, residency or Hajj, all of which require obtaining the appropriate visa.

Russia is the first country with which Saudi Arabia has signed a mutual visa-exemption agreement that applies to holders of ordinary passports.