Saudi Arabia announces new stopover...

Visitors on the stopover visa can stay for up to four days

Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) has announced the launch of a new Stopover Visa, which is open to a wider number of countries than the tourist eVisa.

The complimentary Stopover Visa, launched in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism (MT), Ministry of Interior (MOI), the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah (MOHU), Saudi Tourism Authority (STA), and Saudia and flynas airlines, will allow passengers to stay in the country for up to 96 hours.

The new visa type has been launched to enable more visitors to explore Saudi Arabia’s historical, cultural and religious sites.

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Travellers will be able to use the Stopover Visa to perform Umrah, but must also register the Nusuk platform.

Stopover Visa holders will be eligible for a complimentary one-night hotel stay during the stopover when booking through Saudia and 24-, 48-, 72- and 96-hour itineraries have been developed to inspire visitors.

The Stopover Visa application will be automatically available through the airline booking platforms for all passengers travelling to their final destination on Saudia or flynas airlines. A stopover can be made through any airport in Saudi Arabia.

The application process can be completed in under three minutes and can be applied for up to 90 days before travel

Saudi Arabia Minister of Tourism and chairman of the board of Saudi Tourism Authority Ahmed Al Khateeb said: "The new stopover visa is yet more proof of Saudi’s commitment to developing and encouraging growth in the tourism sector. It's open for travellers passing through Saudi on our national carriers whether for leisure, business or Umrah.”

Fahd Hamidaddin, CEO and member of the board at Saudi Tourism Authority, added: "Today's announcement of Saudi’s inaugural stopover visa is a landmark example of integrated public and private sector cooperation. Four of the top 10 global routes were in or out of Saudi airports in 2022, a testament to the appeal of Saudi."

‏ For more information, visit www.visitsaudi.com