The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Russia has officially confirmed: the agreement on the mutual abolition of visa requirements between Russia and Saudi Arabia entered into force on May 11, 2026. The document was signed in Riyadh on December 1, 2025, as we reported in our previous news.
Who can enter without a visa and under what conditions
From the specified date, citizens of Russia have the right to stay on the territory of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia without obtaining a visa. The duration of stay is no more than 90 days within one calendar year (either continuously or in total across multiple trips).
Important condition: the visa-free regime does not apply to those planning to:
- engage in labor activities;
- receive education;
- reside in the Kingdom.
Similar rights are granted to citizens of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia when visiting Russia for up to 90 days per year without a visa, under the same conditions.
Frequently asked questions:
1. Do Russians need a visa to Saudi Arabia in 2026?
From May 11, 2026, no visa is required for tourist, business, or private trips. Citizens of Russia can stay in the Kingdom without a visa for up to 90 days within a calendar year.
2. When the visa for Saudi Arabia has been abolished for Russians?
The visa-free regime came into force on May 11, 2026. The corresponding agreement was signed on December 1, 2025, in Riyadh, and on May 11 it officially entered into legal force.
3. How many days can one stay in Saudi Arabia without a visa?
Russians can stay on the territory of Saudi Arabia without a visa for no more than 90 days within one calendar year, either continuously or in total across multiple trips.
4. Can I work in Saudi Arabia under the visa-free regime?
No. The visa-free regime does not grant the right to engage in labor activities, receive education, or reside in the Kingdom. For these purposes, an appropriate visa must be obtained.
5. Do I need a visa for Hajj to Saudi Arabia in 2026?
Yes. For performing Hajj or Umrah during the pilgrimage period, a visa remains mandatory. The visa-free regime does not apply to religious trips during the Hajj period.
6. Do citizens of Saudi Arabia need a visa to enter Russia?
No. The agreement provides for reciprocal conditions: citizens of Saudi Arabia may also enter the Russian Federation without a visa for up to 90 days within a calendar year, under similar conditions.
Photo source: https://ru.freepik.com/
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