This recent development emerges in the wake of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) contemplating the introduction of a visa system akin to the Schengen agreement to facilitate seamless travel across member nations.
A novel tourist visa, jointly initiated by Saudi Arabia and Oman, has come to light.
This groundbreaking visa was unveiled subsequent to the GCC’s exploration of a Schengen-style visa that could encompass all regional nations.
The Saudi Ministry of Tourism is actively considering the Saudi-Omani tourist visa as a means to enhance and promote tourism in both Saudi Arabia and Oman.
Comparing 2023 to 2022, the number of Omani tourists visiting Saudi Arabia has surged by 136%, while Saudi travel to Oman during the same period has increased by 92%.
In addition to the previously mentioned visas, Saudi Arabia recently abolished passport stickers in favor of e-visas, and it also lifted restrictions on tourist visas for residents of GCC countries back in March.
In another significant update in the realm of visas, a complimentary transit visa for layover travelers has been introduced, simplifying and streamlining transit journeys. Moreover, the United Kingdom is rolling out a new travel program, resulting in more cost-effective visits for travelers from Saudi Arabia and the broader GCC region.
