Saudi Arabia eases visa rules for Indian tourists

New Delhi: Saudi Arabia, not withstanding its recent attempts to placate Pakistan, has decided to liberalise visas for Indian tourists. Any Indian holding a valid US, UK or Schengen and travelling by Saudi national carrier for tourism will be offered visa-on-arrival in Saudi Arabia, ET has learnt. The criterion for such visa holders is a visit to visa issuing country before landing at any Saudi airport via a Saudi air carrier.

In September Saudi Arabia announced that it will offer tourist visas for the first time, opening up the ultra-conservative kingdom to holiday makers as part of a push to diversify its economy away from oil.

Kickstarting tourism is one of the centre pieces of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s Vision 2030 reform programme to prepare the biggest Arab economy for a post-oil era. “Opening Saudi Arabia to global tourists is a historic moment for our country,” tourism chief Ahmed al-Khateeb said. “Visitors will be surprised, by the treasures we have to share - five UNESCO World Heritage Sites, a vibrant local culture and breathtaking natural beauty.”