What does the new travel visa agreement between Russia and Saudi Arabia mean for travelers? Starting May 11, 2026, a mutual visa-free agreement will allow Russian citizens to stay in Saudi Arabia for up to 90 days per year for non-work purposes without the need for a visa.
The agreement was signed on December 1, 2025, and is expected to facilitate travel between the two nations significantly. According to the Russian Foreign Ministry, “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, comes into force.”
In addition to this agreement, Chinese authorities are also extending a visa waiver program for Russian citizens for another year, allowing them to visit China without a visa for up to 30 days. This extension reflects the ongoing collaboration between Russia and China in easing travel restrictions.
Meanwhile, a visa-on-arrival scheme for Turkish citizens visiting Greece has led to a significant increase in tourism. The number of Turkish visitors to Greek islands surged from 416,000 in 2022 to over 2.25 million in 2025, thanks to the visa-on-arrival program covering 12 islands. The scheme allows travelers to plan trips up to 10 days in advance, although it is important to note that this is not a Schengen visa, and travelers wishing to visit mainland Greece or other Schengen countries still require a standard Schengen visa.
Hakki Karadeveci, an industry expert, stated, “The scheme has become an attractive alternative for Turkish travelers, especially as difficulties in securing Schengen visa appointments continue.” He also emphasized the importance of understanding travel requirements to ensure a smoother travel experience.
For Russian citizens traveling to Saudi Arabia for religious purposes such as Hajj or Umrah, obtaining an appropriate visa remains necessary. Similar rights are granted to Saudi citizens when visiting Russia, ensuring reciprocal travel benefits.
As these agreements come into effect, travelers are encouraged to stay informed about the latest visa requirements and travel regulations. Details remain unconfirmed regarding any further expansions or changes to these agreements in the future.