Saudi Arabia and Russia to Implement Visa-Free Travel from May 11

Riyadh, The Gulf Observer: Saudi Arabia and Russia will implement a mutual visa exemption agreement starting May 11, allowing citizens of both countries to travel visa-free for short-term visits, the Kingdom’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced on Monday.
The agreement, initially unveiled in December 2025, permits nationals of both countries to enter, exit, and transit without a visa for stays of up to 90 days within a single year, whether consecutively or across multiple visits.
According to the ministry, the visa-free regime applies to travel for tourism, business, and family visits, marking a significant step in strengthening bilateral relations and facilitating people-to-people exchanges between Saudi Arabia and Russia.
However, authorities clarified that the exemption does not extend to travel for employment, academic study, residency, or participation in Hajj. Individuals intending to travel for these purposes will still be required to obtain the appropriate visas in accordance with existing regulations.
The initiative is expected to enhance cooperation in tourism, trade, and cultural exchange, further deepening ties between the two nations.