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 without a visa for non-work purposes. This significant development is expected to enhance tourism and cultural exchange between the two nations.

The agreement, signed on December 1, 2025, in Riyadh, marks a pivotal moment in diplomatic relations. 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.” This statement underscores the importance of the agreement in facilitating easier travel.

In addition to the Russia-Saudi Arabia agreement, Chinese authorities are extending a visa waiver program for Russian citizens by one more year. This program, which lifted visa requirements for Russian passport holders, has been in effect as part of a one-year trial and further supports the trend of easing travel restrictions.

Meanwhile, Turkey has seen a remarkable increase in tourist arrivals to its Aegean islands due to a visa-on-arrival scheme for Turkish citizens. This initiative has led to a fivefold increase in Turkish visitors, rising from 416,000 in 2022 to over 2.25 million in 2025. Greece has decided to extend its visa-on-arrival program for another year, covering 12 islands, which allows travelers to plan trips up to 10 days in advance.

However, it is important to note that travelers wishing to visit mainland Greece or other Schengen countries still need a standard Schengen visa. Additionally, Russian citizens traveling to Saudi Arabia for Hajj or Umrah must obtain the appropriate visa, as similar rights are granted to Saudi citizens visiting Russia.

Hakki Karadeveci, a tourism expert, stated, “The scheme has become an attractive alternative for Turkish travelers, especially as difficulties in securing Schengen visa appointments continue.” This highlights the ongoing challenges travelers face in obtaining visas and the importance of these new agreements in providing more accessible travel options.

As these changes unfold, travelers should stay informed about the specific requirements and regulations that apply to their journeys. Understanding these steps in advance helps travelers avoid disappointment and ensures a smoother travel experience. Details remain unconfirmed regarding any further extensions or changes to these agreements.

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