The Saudi Embassy in Russia clarifies the validity of the visa exemption
The Embassy of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in Moscow issued an important notice to Saudi citizens, clarifying the current status of the mutual visa exemption agreement between the Kingdom and the Russian Federation. In an official statement, the Embassy confirmed that the agreement, which many are anticipating, has not yet entered into force, and therefore those wishing to travel must adhere to the existing procedures.
This clarification came via the embassy's official social media account, referencing the previous announcement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on December 1, 2025. The embassy stated: "The embassy wishes to inform citizens intending to visit the Russian Federation that the agreement has not yet entered into force, pending the completion of necessary procedures between the two parties according to established frameworks." This statement aims to dispel any doubts and prevent any confusion that travelers might have based on previous reports regarding the signing of the agreement.
diplomatic procedures followed
It is worth noting that international agreements, especially those concerning visa exemptions, typically undergo multiple diplomatic and legal stages before becoming effective. After initial signing, the text is subject to ratification by the relevant legislative and executive bodies in both countries. Following the completion of these internal procedures, diplomatic notes are exchanged, specifying an official date for the agreement's entry into force, which the embassy referred to as "completion of the necessary procedures.".
Growing Saudi-Russian relations
This anticipated agreement comes amid a significant development in bilateral relations between Riyadh and Moscow. Recent years have witnessed a considerable convergence of views on numerous regional and international issues, in addition to close cooperation in the energy sector within the OPEC+ alliance. The pursuit of a mutual visa exemption reflects the desire of both leaderships to strengthen people-to-people ties and facilitate travel, which will benefit the tourism and investment sectors in both countries.
The importance of the agreement and the future of tourism
This step is particularly significant in light of the Kingdom's Vision 2030, which aims to enhance the global standing of the Saudi passport and open new horizons for citizens, as well as attract tourists from around the world. Russia is a promising tourist market, and facilitating travel procedures will encourage trade and cultural exchange. However, the embassy emphasized its commitment to keeping citizens informed of developments, confirming that it will officially announce the agreement's effective date as soon as it is finalized. It urged everyone to obtain information only from official sources before planning their travel.
