Saudi Arabia and Russia have signed a historic visa exemption agreement allowing citizens of both countries to travel visa-free for up to 90 days. The move marks the most comprehensive visa waiver granted by Saudi Arabia to any nation for holders of ordinary passports and signals a deepening phase in bilateral cooperation.
Agreement Signed at Riyadh Business Forum
The pact was formalised during the Saudi–Russian Investment and Business Forum in Riyadh. Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan and Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak signed the agreement in the presence of senior government and business leaders. Officials described the development as a milestone reflecting expanding collaboration in energy, investment, trade and strategic diplomacy.
Key Terms of the Visa-Free Regime
- Applies to diplomatic, special and ordinary passports
- Allows stays of up to 90 days in a single visit or cumulatively per year
- Permitted purposes include tourism, business travel and family visits
However, activities such as employment, studies, long-term residency and Hajj pilgrimage are not covered under the exemption and will continue to require separate visas.
Expected Benefits: Travel, Trade and Cultural Exchange
The simplified entry framework is expected to:
- Boost tourism flows
- Ease business mobility and investment exploration
- Support cultural, academic and heritage exchanges
- Enhance people-to-people connectivity
Officials from both sides emphasised that reducing travel barriers will accelerate cooperation across priority sectors, including energy, infrastructure, innovation and defence.
Why the Deal Matters
The agreement makes Russia the first country to receive a full-spectrum visa exemption from Saudi Arabia, reflecting Riyadh’s evolving foreign policy and growing openness to global partnerships. Analysts view the deal as part of broader Gulf efforts to diversify ties beyond traditional Western and regional partners.
Key Points
- Allows citizens of both nations 90-day visa-free entry
- Applies to all passport types including ordinary passports
- Valid for tourism, business and family visits
- Work, study, residency and Hajj are excluded
- Russia becomes the first country granted such broad access by Saudi Arabia