Saudi Arabia has announced a significant easing of tourist visa requirements for Pakistani travelers, effective immediately. The Saudi Tourism Authority revealed that applicants can now submit a bank statement showing a minimum monthly credit amount of $750 or its equivalent, streamlining the process for prospective tourists.
In 2023, Pakistani tourist arrivals in Saudi Arabia increased by 43% compared to the previous year. Saudi Arabia aims to welcome 2.7 million Pakistani visitors in 2024. To support this growing demand, Saudi Arabia has established six Tasheer offices across Pakistan in Peshawar, Quetta, Lahore, Karachi, Islamabad, and Multan.
These offices provide a convenient and user-friendly experience, offering visa application guidance, biometric enrollment, status tracking, and passport delivery. Travelers can schedule an appointment on the Tasheer website prior to their visit.
Additionally, Saudi Arabia has introduced a transit visa for travelers arriving via Saudia and Flynas. This visa allows travelers to transit and explore Saudi Arabia for up to 96 hours. Moreover, travelers holding a valid and used UK, US, or Schengen visa can avail themselves of the visa on arrival.
In the past year, Saudi Arabia also introduced a one-year multiple entry visa for Pakistani travelers. This visa caters to those visiting for personal reasons such as attending weddings or functions or visiting friends and family. Holders of this visa can make multiple visits within a 12-month period, allowing them to explore Saudi Arabia’s vibrant cities, cultural richness, and natural wonders throughout the year. Additionally, travelers with this visa can perform Umrah, emphasizing Saudi Arabia’s commitment to fostering spiritual journeys and cultural exchanges.
The simplified visa process is expected to encourage more Pakistani travelers to visit their friends and family, perform Umrah, and explore Saudi Arabia. From Riyadh’s dynamic cityscape and Jeddah’s cultural heritage to the hidden treasures of the Red Sea and the ancient marvels of AlUla, Saudi Arabia offers a wealth of attractions for tourists. The kingdom, a year-round destination, boasts regions that provide a cooler escape in summer and a busy calendar of events throughout winter, drawing an increasing number of tourists each year, according to the Saudi Tourism Authority.
