Saudi Arabia has recently implemented significant changes to its tourist visa policies, making it easier for Pakistani travelers to visit. These updates include a lower financial requirement for visa applicants, allowing them to submit a bank statement showing a minimum monthly credit of USD 750 or its equivalent.
In response to a substantial 43% increase in Pakistani tourist arrivals in 2023 compared to the previous year, Saudi Arabia aims to attract 2.7 million Pakistani visitors in 2024. To facilitate this growth, Saudi Arabia has established six Tasheer offices across Pakistan in cities like Peshawar, Quetta, Lahore, Karachi, Islamabad, and Multan. These offices provide a streamlined visa application process, including guidance, biometric enrollment, status tracking, and passport delivery. Travelers can conveniently schedule appointments through the Tasheer website.
Additionally, Saudi Arabia has introduced a transit visa option, allowing travelers arriving via Saudia and Flynas to explore Saudi Arabia for up to 96 hours. Visa on arrival is available for those holding valid and used UK, US, or Schengen visas.
For frequent visitors, Saudi Arabia offers a one-year multiple entry visa specifically designed for personal visits, such as attending weddings, functions, visiting friends or family, and performing Umrah. Holders of this visa can make multiple trips to Saudi Arabia within a 12-month period.
Saudi Arabia promotes itself as a year-round destination, showcasing attractions such as Riyadh’s modern cityscape, Jeddah’s cultural richness, the Red Sea’s hidden treasures, and the ancient marvels of AlUla. Various regions offer cooler retreats during summer and a bustling calendar of events in winter, enhancing its appeal to tourists.
For more information on visa applications, travelers can visit visa.mofa.gov.sa and vc.tasheer.com. To explore tourism offerings and travel guidelines, visit www.visitsaudi.com.
The Saudi Tourism Authority (STA), established in June 2020, oversees the marketing of Saudi Arabia’s tourism destinations globally. STA focuses on developing the country’s unique assets, hosting industry events, and promoting Saudi Arabia’s destination brand locally and internationally. With 16 representative offices worldwide, STA serves 38 countries in support of its mission.
To learn more about Saudi Arabia’s tourism initiatives, visit www.VisitSaudi.com.