Saudi Gazette report

RIYADH — Saudi Arabia and Russia on Monday signed a mutual visa exemption agreement for citizens of both countries, on the sidelines of the Saudi–Russian Investment and Business Forum in Riyadh.

The agreement was signed by Prince Faisal bin Farhan, Saudi Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Alexander Novak, Deputy Prime Minister of the Russian Federation, in the presence of Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman, Minister of Energy and head of the Saudi side in the Joint Saudi–Russian Committee.

The agreement covers all categories of passports — diplomatic, special and ordinary — and allows visa-free entry for visits, including tourism, business and visits to relatives and friends. It permits stays of up to 90 days, whether consecutively or on separate visits, within a single calendar year.

Officials said the agreement reflects the commitment of both countries to facilitate entry procedures for their citizens, boost reciprocal visits and strengthen cooperation in tourism, economic and cultural fields. It is also expected to support sectors that enhance partnership between the two nations and their peoples.

The agreement does not apply to those entering for work, study, residency or Hajj, all of which require obtaining the appropriate visa.

Russia is the first country with which Saudi Arabia has signed a mutual visa exemption agreement that includes holders of ordinary passports.