Visa-free regime between Russia and Saudi Arabia

Good news for those who love good news: another country has become visa-free for Russians. On May 11, 2026, an agreement on mutual visa exemption between Russia and Saudi Arabia, signed in Riyadh on December 1, 2025, comes into force.

According to it, Russian citizens will be able to stay in Saudi Arabia without a visa for 90 days within a year. This period can be cumulative or continuous. An important condition is the absence of employment, study, or residency in the country. For these purposes, a visa will still be required. Also, for performing Hajj, a pilgrim visa will need to be obtained; for Umrah, a regular tourist visa will suffice. Citizens of Saudi Arabia can also visit Russia without a visa.

Inexpensive tickets to Riyadh are available with a layover in Istanbul, but we expect direct flights to appear, which will make reaching the new visa-free destination even easier.