Gulf residents can visit the eVisa page to apply for a tourist visa, at a cost of $80 in addition to health insurance…reports Asian Lite News
Saudi Arabia’s Tourism Ministry allowed all residents in Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) member states to apply for a tourist visa online to visit the kingdom, regardless of their profession.
The eVisa will allow the Gulf residents to explore the various Saudi regions and perform Umrah rituals if they are Muslims, Xinhua news agency reported.
The move came as part of the Saudi efforts to provide an opportunity for the Gulf residents to visit Saudi tourist destinations, enjoy entertainment events, and explore the heritage and historical sites in the kingdom, it said.
“Saudi Arabia’s visa application is now simpler, more convenient and straightforward for residents of GCC states, regardless of their profession,” said Tourism Minister Ahmed al-Khateeb on Twitter.
Gulf residents can visit the eVisa page to apply for a tourist visa, at a cost of $80 in addition to health insurance.
Once the application is submitted, the applicant will get the eVisa by email, according to media reports.
Previously, only those GCC residents with occupations listed on an approved list were allowed to apply for an eVisa to visit the kingdom.
The transit visa for stop-over allows those in transit to enter the kingdom to perform Umrah, visit the Prophet’s Mosque, and attend tourism events. The visa is free of charge and will be issued immediately with the traveller’s plane tickets.
It allows for a four-day stay in the kingdom and has a three-month validity period, Xinhua news agency reported.
The Ministry said that the new service is available as of Monday on the electronic platforms of Saudia Airlines and Flynas and passengers can apply on the platforms and receive the digital visas in their email.
