Saudi Arabia Grants Visa-Free Entry for Russians, Expands eVisa for 68 Nations

The reciprocal visa waiver between Saudi Arabia and Russia came into effect on 11 May 2026. This agreement allows Russian ordinary passport holders to visit Saudi Arabia for tourism, business, or family visits for up to 90 days per calendar year. The exemption applies to both single and multiple short journeys, covering ordinary, diplomatic, and special passports. In reciprocity, Saudi citizens receive similar visa-free privileges for travel to Russia.

Saudi Arabia also expanded its eVisa programme for citizens of 68 other nations, including Hungary. However, employment, study, long-term residence, and Hajj pilgrimages are not covered by the new visa-free arrangements for Russian citizens. Previous Saudi visa waiver agreements primarily focused on diplomatic and special passport holders, making the Russian deal significant for ordinary travellers.