Saudi Arabia is on track to join a select group of countries—such as the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, the United Arab Emirates, and Singapore—in gaining visa-free access to the Schengen Zone. This development is part of a broader effort by the European Union to facilitate easier travel for Gulf countries and strengthen ties with strategic partners across the globe.
Towards Easier European Travel for Saudis
Although the official visa exemption is still under negotiation, Saudi nationals already benefit from a major advancement: the introduction of a five-year multiple-entry Schengen visa. Implemented in April 2024, this visa allows citizens from Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, and Oman to travel to Europe for short stays—up to 90 days within any 180-day period—without needing to reapply each time.
This initiative lays the groundwork for full visa-free access in the near future, positioning Saudi Arabia as a key partner in Europe’s evolving travel and tourism landscape. 
Five-Year Multiple-Entry Visas: A Major Step Forward
The five-year visa is a game-changer for frequent Saudi travelers, entrepreneurs, and families who visit Europe regularly. By reducing the administrative burden and simplifying the application process, it enhances convenience and fosters greater mobility for business, tourism, education, and cultural exchange.
Countries with Visa-Free Access to the Schengen Zone
Once the policy is finalized, Saudi Arabia will join a growing list of nations whose citizens enjoy visa-free travel to the Schengen Area. These countries include:
- Europe & Nearby: Albania, Andorra, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Georgia, Israel, Kosovo, Moldova, Monaco, Montenegro, North Macedonia, San Marino, Serbia, Ukraine, United Kingdom, Vatican City
- Americas: Argentina, Antigua and Barbuda, Bahamas, Barbados, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Dominica, El Salvador, Grenada, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Trinidad and Tobago, United States, Uruguay, Venezuela
- Asia-Pacific: Australia, Brunei, Hong Kong, Japan, Kiribati, Macau, Malaysia, Marshall Islands, Micronesia, New Zealand, Palau, Samoa, Singapore, Solomon Islands, South Korea, Taiwan, Timor-Leste, Tonga, Tuvalu
- Middle East & Africa: Mauritius, Seychelles, United Arab Emirates
Joining this list will significantly enhance Saudi citizens’ global mobility and allow easier travel across 27 European countries within the Schengen Area.
Current Visa Requirements for Saudis
Until full exemption is implemented, Saudi travelers must meet the current visa requirements. Here’s an overview:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Visa Type | Short-stay Schengen Visa (Type C) |
| Validity | Up to 5 years (multiple-entry) |
| Stay Duration | Maximum of 90 days within a 180-day period |
| Documents Needed | Valid passport, travel insurance, accommodation proof, itinerary, financial means, and reason for travel |
| Visa Fee | Around €80 (subject to variation by country) |
A Strategic Move for Tourism and International Relations
According to EU Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Christophe Farnaud, this evolving policy is not just about easing travel—it reflects a broader diplomatic and economic alignment between Saudi Arabia and the European Union. The upcoming visa-free agreement promises to strengthen partnerships in tourism, trade, education, and culture.
As Saudi Arabia continues to open its doors to global visitors, this reciprocal move by the EU underscores mutual trust and cooperation, and sets the stage for a new era of connectivity between the Gulf and Europe.
About Epic Click Travel & Tourism L.L.C
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