São Paulo – Saudi Arabia launched a new tourism visa on September 27. The announcement came during a ceremony held by the Saudi Commission for Tourism and National Heritage. “I am glad to announce having attracted SAR 115 billion (USD 30 billion) so far [in tourism investment], which indicates the world’s trust in the Saudi market’s strength and potential,” said the Commission’s chairman Ahmad Bin Aqil Al-Khatib during the ceremony (picture above), according to the institution’s website.
Visitors will be able to obtain one-year, multiple entry visas allowing them to spend up to 90 days in the country. Travelers will be able to visit the country for an unlimited number of times, while their visa remains valid and the length of stay remains within the imposed limits.
Government website ‘Visit Saudi’ says the new visa system is a historic milestone in opening Saudi Arabia to tourism. “International visitors will discover the warm hospitality of Saudi people: our rich heritage, vibrant culture, and diverse and breathtaking landscapes, from the mountains of Abha to the beaches of the Red Sea to the shifting sands of the Empty Quarter,” the website points out. It already contains texts promoting tourist attractios related to cuisine and nature.
Eligible countries
Online visa is available for tourists from 49 eligible countries. Brazil is not yet in the list that includes countries in Europe, North America, Asia and Oceania. Tourists from these countries can apply for a tourism visa online through the e-visa portal ahead of their trip, or upon arrival in Saudi Arabia through visa kiosks at immigration.
Tourists from other countries will have to apply for a visa through Saudi embassies and consulates. The fee for all visas – including e-visa, visa-on-arrival and consulate visa – is SAR 440 (USD 117), including the base fee (SAR 300 [USD 80]) and health insurance (SAR 140 [USD 37]).
Translated by Guilherme Miranda
