Saudi Arabia and Russia launch mutual 90 day visa free travel from May 11

Travelers from Saudi Arabia and Russia can enjoy stays of up to 90 days for tourism and business

Starting May 11, 2026, citizens of Saudi Arabia and Russia can travel between the two countries without a visa. According to the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the mutual visa-exemption agreement will officially come into effect to simplify entry for holders of all passport types, including ordinary, diplomatic, and service passports.

Under the specific terms of the arrangement, travelers are permitted to stay in the host country for up to 90 days within any 180-day period.

This move is designed to foster closer economic ties and boost the tourism sectors in both nations. The agreement was finalized following high-level diplomatic discussions aimed at removing barriers for business leaders and leisure travelers alike.

Russia one of the few non-GCC nations to have visa-free agreements with Saudi Arabia

The exemption applies specifically to tourism, business meetings, and private visits. However, the Saudi government has clarified that the waiver does not cover all travel purposes. The [Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that "the agreement does not grant the right to work or study" and that Russian citizens intending to perform the Hajj or Umrah must still follow specific regulatory requirements for religious visas.

This bilateral step makes Russia one of the few non-GCC nations to have a comprehensive visa-free arrangement with the Kingdom for ordinary citizens.

It aligns with broader regional trends to open borders, similar to the upcoming GCC unified tourist visa launch, which aims to streamline travel across the Middle East.