Saudi Arabia issues 400,000 tourist visas until March 2020: Ministry of Tourism

Saudi Arabia issued more than 400,000 tourist visas until March 2020, since it opened its borders to foreign tourists in late September, SPA reported, citing the Ministry of Tourism.

This was also accompanied by a number of investment-alluring regulations and the construction of a number of mega tourist projects, in addition to providing several job opportunities in the industry.

Amid the Kingdom’s efforts to support the industry, up to SAR 160 million in loans were arranged to finance tourism projects. Also, Souk Okaz in Taif was developed to become the Kingdom’s tourist hub, attracting more than 600,000 visitors in 2019, and providing more than 15,000 jobs.

Saudi Arabia has 354 tourist destinations, including Rajajel Columns, Zabal Castle, Mosque of Omar Ibn al-Khattab, Sisrah Well, and Marid Castle.

On Sept. 27, 2019, Saudi Arabia introduced an e-visa program, allowing people from 49 countries to visit, by applying for a visa ahead of their trip or on arrival.