RIYADH: The electronic travel authorization scheme, which will make UK travel easier for Saudi citizens, came under discussion at a meeting between the Kingdom’s deputy foreign minister and a British minister of state on Wednesday.

Ahead of the ETA launch on Thursday, Saudi Deputy Foreign Minister Waleed bin Abdulkarim Al-Khuraiji and British Minister of State for the Middle East Tariq Ahmad said the scheme underscored strong Saudi-British relations and reflected the ongoing coordination between the two nations’ foreign ministries.

From Feb. 1, Saudi nationals traveling to the UK on or after Feb. 22 can obtain an ETA instead of a visa if they are:
Visiting for up to six months for tourism, business purposes, short-term study, or to visit family and friends.
Visiting for up to three months on the Creative Worker visa concession.
Visiting for up to one month for a Permitted Paid Engagement.
Transiting through the UK, whether or not they will pass through border control.

The ETA costs £10 ($12.73), is valid for two years and can be used for travel to the UK as many times as required during that period. The fastest way to apply is through the UK ETA app.

During the meeting, the two ministers also discussed regional and international issues of mutual interest, focusing on the need for immediate humanitarian access and the release of hostages in Gaza.

Al-Khuraiji and Lord Ahmad jointly emphasized the importance of a sustainable ceasefire and pursuit of a two-state solution.