Saudi Arabia is making a significant move to enhance global tourism by expanding its visa-on-arrival program. This initiative now allows travelers with valid visas from the Schengen Zone, the United Kingdom, and the United States, as well as residents of these regions, to obtain visas upon arrival. This reform aims to eliminate bureaucratic barriers and aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which seeks to establish the Kingdom as a leading tourism hub.

The recent changes aim to simplify travel procedures and make Saudi Arabia more accessible to international visitors. As the Kingdom prepares for a bustling summer filled with major events, cultural experiences, and religious pilgrimages, it is positioning itself as a vibrant year-round destination.

With the expansion of the visa-on-arrival eligibility, Saudi Arabia is targeting a surge in tourism during the peak season. Major events such as the Esports World Cup are expected to draw global audiences. Saudi officials have described this summer as “one of the most inviting and convenient periods” for tourists to explore the Kingdom’s diverse offerings.

In addition to the visa changes, Saudi Arabia has resumed issuing Umrah visas following the completion of the Hajj pilgrimage. The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah announced that applications for these visas reopened on June 10, allowing Muslims worldwide to visit the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah outside of the busy Hajj season.

Earlier this year, authorities had temporarily suspended various types of visas to manage the flow of pilgrims during the Hajj period. From mid-April, the issuance of tourist, Umrah, family visit, and other entry visas was halted to ensure the safety of the millions attending the pilgrimage. With the conclusion of Hajj, these restrictions have now been lifted.

The expansion of the visa-on-arrival program reflects Saudi Arabia’s broader ambition to enhance its global tourism image. The Kingdom is working towards welcoming one hundred million tourists annually by the end of the decade, supported by high-profile projects like NEOM and the Red Sea Project, which aim to offer world-class attractions.

Saudi Arabia’s efforts to boost its tourism sector include a diverse range of entertainment and cultural events, such as international concerts and art exhibitions, designed to attract a global audience. The recent visa reforms underscore the Kingdom’s commitment to becoming one of the most inviting destinations in the Middle East, ready to welcome visitors for spiritual, business, or leisure purposes.