Saudi Arabia has launched an electronic service that allows international visitors stopping in Saudi Arabia to obtain an entry visa to the Kingdom.
The electronic transit visa enables visa holders to stay in the Kingdom for four days, while the duration during which the visa can be used is three months, VisaGuide.World reports.
According to travel industry news site, Skift, the visa is free of charge and will be issued directly along with the flight ticket. The decision has been effective since January 30 of this year.
In addition, the Saudi Arabia Ministry of Foreign Affairs explained that applications for transit visas for travellers could be submitted through the electronic platforms of Saudi Arabian Airlines and Flynas.
The same has also emphasized that for many travelers, the application process can be completed in less than three minutes and can be applied up to 90 days before travel.
Transit passengers with a transit visa can enter Saudi Arabia to perform Umrah, visit the Prophet’s Mosque in Medina, and attend tourist events.
As the Ministry explains, the ‘delay service e-transit visa’ aims to contribute to achieving the kingdom’s Vision 2030 objectives by strengthening its position as a global tourist destination.
Last September, the Ministry of Tourism of Saudi Arabia also introduced a new visa scheme for residents of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries.
“The announcement of Saudi’s inaugural stopover visa is a landmark example of integrated public and private sector cooperation. Four of the top ten global routes were in or out of Saudi airports last year, a testament to the appeal of Destination Saudi,” CEO and member of the Board at Saudi Tourism Authority Fahd Hamidaddin pointed out in this regard.
Moreover, stopover visa holders will also be offered a free one-night hotel stay during the stopover when booking through SAUDIA.
Meanwhile, to help them make the most of their layover, bespoke 24-, 48-, 72- and 96-hour itineraries have been advanced to inspire visitors to stroll through Jeddah’s Al-Balad, or visit the Al- Turaif in Diriyah, one of six Saudi UNESCO World Heritage sites.
At the same time, visitors can also use the Stopover Visa to stop over on long-haul flights, book a bonus trip to enjoy Saudi Arabia’s seasonal events, or even extend a business trip en route to their final destination.
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