Saudi-Russia Visa rules have changed following a new agreement allowing citizens of both countries to travel without a visa. The deal was finalized on the sidelines of the Saudi-Russian Investment and Business Forum in Riyadh on December 1, 2025.
Prince Faisal bin Farhan, Saudi Minister of Foreign Affairs, signed the agreement alongside Alexander Novak, Deputy Prime Minister of the Russian Federation. Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman, Saudi Minister of Energy and head of the Joint Saudi-Russian Committee, attended the ceremony.
The agreement applies to all passport categories, including diplomatic, special, and ordinary passports. It allows visa-free entry for tourism, business trips, and family visits. Citizens may stay up to 90 days, either consecutively or in multiple visits, within a calendar year.
Officials said the deal reflects a shared commitment to facilitate travel between the two nations. They highlighted that easing entry procedures will increase reciprocal visits and boost cooperation in economic, cultural, and tourism sectors.
The visa exemption excludes travelers entering for work, study, residency, or Hajj. Individuals in these categories must obtain the appropriate visas before traveling.
Saudi Arabia considers Russia the first country with which it has signed a mutual visa exemption agreement covering holders of ordinary passports. The initiative demonstrates growing diplomatic and economic ties between Riyadh and Moscow.
Analysts noted that the move could strengthen tourism flows and business exchanges. Simplified travel is expected to encourage trade partnerships, joint ventures, and cultural exchanges between the two nations.
The agreement also underlines broader strategic cooperation. Both countries continue to expand their collaboration across energy, infrastructure, and investment projects. Observers say easier travel will accelerate joint initiatives and facilitate high-level delegation visits.
Travel experts predict that airlines may add more direct routes to accommodate the increased flow of travelers. Increased tourism and business travel could benefit hotels, transport providers, and the hospitality sector in both countries.
The Saudi-Russia Visa agreement marks a milestone in bilateral relations. By removing barriers for ordinary citizens, both governments aim to enhance connectivity, foster people-to-people ties, and support economic growth.
Officials plan to monitor the agreement’s impact on travel volumes and trade exchanges. Future adjustments may include expanding duration or further facilitating travel for additional passport types.
