RIYADH: Saudi Arabia and Russia signed an agreement on Monday granting mutual visa-free entry for citizens of both countries, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
The accord was concluded on the sidelines of the Saudi–Russian Investment and Business Forum in Riyadh.
It was attended by Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman, minister of energy and chairman of the Saudi side of the Saudi-Russian Joint Committee, and Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak.
The agreement was signed by Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan and Novak on behalf of Russia.
Under the new arrangement, passport-holding citizens of both countries will be allowed visa-free entry for tourism, business or family visits.
The exemption permits stays of up to 90 days, either consecutively or cumulatively, within a single calendar year.
Officials said the agreement reflects the commitment of both countries to facilitating travel and promoting closer people-to-people engagement.
The move is expected to boost tourism and bolster economic and cultural cooperation across multiple sectors, the SPA reported.
However, the exemption does not apply to travelers entering for work, study, residency or Hajj, all of which will continue to require specific visas.
Russia is the first country with which Saudi Arabia has signed a mutual visa-waiver agreement that includes holders of ordinary passports.
Ahmed Al-Otaibi, a Saudi businessman, said the agreement reflects both countries’ commitment to facilitating entry procedures, boosting reciprocal visits and strengthening cooperation in the tourism, economic and cultural fields.
He added that the deal is also expected to support sectors that enhance ties between the two countries.
Osama Ghanem Al-Obaidy, an adviser and law professor, said the agreement reflects the strong bonds between the Kingdom and Russia, and will bring benefits to both countries.
