RIYADH, Dec 1 (KUNA) -- The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Russian Federation signed an agreement exempting the citizens of one another from the visa requirements.
The document was signed by Saudi Minister of Energy Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, and Deputy Prime Minister of Russia Alexander Novak on the sidelines of the Saudi-Russian Investment and Business Forum in Riyadh on Monday, according to the Saudi Press Agency.
The visa waiver covers all types of passports (diplomatic, special and regular) and allows visa-free entry for visitors traveling for tourism, business, or to visit relatives and friends, for up to 90 consecutive or nonconsecutive days a year.
The agreement underscores the commitment of both countries in facilitating entry procedures for their citizens, which will increase reciprocal visits and enhance tourism, economic, and cultural cooperation. It will also contribute to strengthening various sectors and expanding cooperation and partnerships between both countries. It is important to emphasize that this exemption does not extend to individuals traveling for (work, study, residency, or Hajj), as these require special visas.
The Russian Federation is the first country with which the Kingdom has signed a mutual visa exemption agreement that includes holders of regular passports, according to SPA report. (end) ash.gb