Saudi Arabia has recently made a significant change to its visit visa rules, allowing GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council) residents to visit the kingdom regardless of their profession. This move is expected to boost tourism and increase economic activity in the country.
Previously, only certain categories of GCC residents, such as doctors, engineers, and journalists, were eligible for visit visas to Saudi Arabia. However, the new rules now allow all GCC residents, regardless of their profession, to apply for visit visas. This change is part of Saudi Arabia’s efforts to diversify its economy and reduce its dependence on oil revenues.
The move has been welcomed by many GCC residents who are now able to visit Saudi Arabia for tourism, religious pilgrimage, or business purposes. With Saudi Arabia being home to some of the world’s most significant Islamic sites, such as Mecca and Medina, this new rule is expected to boost religious tourism to the country.
In addition to religious tourism, Saudi Arabia is also home to several tourist attractions, including museums, historical sites, and natural wonders. The country has been investing heavily in tourism infrastructure, with plans to develop several tourist destinations, including the Red Sea Project and Qiddiya, a large entertainment city.
The relaxation of visit visa rules is also expected to boost business activity in the country, with GCC residents now able to attend conferences, exhibitions, and other events in Saudi Arabia. This is expected to increase trade and investment opportunities between Saudi Arabia and other GCC countries.
In conclusion, the relaxation of visit visa rules for GCC residents is a significant move by Saudi Arabia to boost tourism and increase economic activity in the country. With the country investing heavily in tourism infrastructure and developing new tourist destinations, this move is expected to increase the number of visitors to Saudi Arabia in the coming years. The move also presents opportunities for increased business activity between Saudi Arabia and other GCC countries
