Russia, Saudi Arabia launch mutual visa-free travel regime

A visa-free regime between Russia and Saudi Arabia came into force on May 11, the Russian Foreign Ministry announced.

“On May 11, 2026, the Agreement between the Government of the Russian Federation and the Government of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on the mutual abolition of visa requirements for citizens of the Russian Federation and citizens of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, signed in Riyadh on December 1, 2025, enters into force,” the ministry said.

Under the agreement, Russian citizens may enter and stay in Saudi Arabia visa-free for up to 90 days continuously or cumulatively within a calendar year, provided they do not engage in employment, study, or long-term residence.

It was also clarified that Russians travelling for work, education, or for religious purposes, such as Hajj or Umrah, during the Hajj period will still be required to obtain an appropriate visa. Reciprocal rights will also apply to citizens of Saudi Arabia visiting Russia.

By Jeyhun Aghazada