The agreement abolishing visa requirements between Russia and Saudi Arabia entered into force on Monday, May 11. This allows Russian citizens to travel to Saudi Arabia for tourism without a visa.
Under the terms of the arrangement, the visa-free regime applies only to individuals who do not work, study, or reside in the kingdom. Travelers must still complete appropriate registration for trips under these conditions. Additionally, a visa remains mandatory for Russian citizens traveling to Saudi Arabia for Hajj or Umrah.
Similar conditions will apply when Saudi citizens travel to Russia.
Anton Alikhanov, head of the Ministry of Industry and Trade of the Russian Federation, stated on February 9 that the visa waiver agreement would become effective in mid-2026. He noted that direct flights between Moscow and Riyadh would contribute to intensified bilateral cooperation.
On December 1, 2025, Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak announced Russia’s interest in collaborating with Saudi Arabia in the field of fuel and energy complex technologies, including the development of “difficult” oil, mineral exploration partnerships, hydroelectric and thermal power projects.
