Historic Agreement Signed in Riyadh
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – On Monday, December 1, 2025, Saudi Arabia and Russia officially signed a mutual visa exemption agreement, marking a significant step in strengthening bilateral ties. The landmark deal, concluded on the sidelines of the Saudi-Russian Investment and Business Forum in Riyadh, permits citizens of both countries to enjoy visa-free travel for up to 90 days within a single calendar year.
The agreement was signed by Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan and Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak. The signing ceremony was also attended by Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman, Saudi Minister of Energy and head of the Saudi side of the joint committee.
Key Provisions and Scope
The newly enacted agreement extends to all categories of passports, including diplomatic, special, and ordinary passports. This comprehensive coverage allows citizens to visit either country for purposes such as:
- Tourism
- Business
- Visiting relatives and friends
Travelers can stay for a maximum of 90 days, either consecutively or across multiple visits, within a calendar year. However, the exemption does not apply to individuals traveling for work, study, residency, or the Hajj pilgrimage, which will continue to require specific visas.
Boosting Bilateral Relations and Exchange
Officials from both nations emphasized that the agreement reflects a shared commitment to easing travel procedures, increasing reciprocal visits, and strengthening cooperation across various sectors. It is anticipated to significantly bolster tourism, economic, and cultural exchanges between Saudi Arabia and Russia.
This agreement holds particular significance as Russia becomes the first country with which Saudi Arabia has signed a mutual visa exemption agreement that includes holders of ordinary passports. The move is expected to open new opportunities for citizens to explore each other's cultures and landscapes, further enhancing diplomatic and economic ties.
Implementation Timeline
The agreement is expected to come into force 60 days after both countries exchange formal notifications of readiness through official diplomatic channels. This period allows for necessary administrative preparations to facilitate the new visa-free travel regime.
5 Comments
Africa
This agreement will definitely facilitate trade and personal visits, which is generally a good thing. Yet, for Saudi Arabia to make Russia its first visa-free partner for ordinary passports is a significant diplomatic statement that deserves scrutiny.
Bermudez
It's good to see Saudi Arabia opening up and seeking diverse partnerships. However, aligning so closely with Russia could complicate its relationships with other key international allies.
Coccinella
A clear sign of stronger ties between two major players. Positive development.
Muchacho
Easing travel can undeniably boost economies, but we need to ensure robust security protocols are in place to manage the potential risks that come with open borders, especially with certain nations.
Coccinella
On one hand, cultural exchange is always beneficial for fostering understanding. On the other, the article's focus on 'Russia's Influence' suggests underlying strategic motives that might overshadow genuine cultural benefits.