UAE, Saudi Arabia & 4 More Countries Granted Visa Exemption To Enter Turkey!

In a bid to promote tourism and enhance cultural exchanges, Turkey has implemented a significant visa exemption policy. It will be benefitting tourists from Saudi Arabia, the US, Canada, Bahrain, the UAE, and Oman. This progressive move stems from President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s recent decision. It grants citizens of these nations with ordinary passports visa-free entry to Turkiye.

Turkey’s Visa Exemption for Six Nations

President Erdogan’s decree, issued on a Friday, marks a pivotal moment for tourism between Turkey and six prominent nations. The policy allows citizens from the mentioned countries to visit Turkiye for tourism without needing a prior visa. The granted stay spans up to 90 days within six months, providing ample time for exploration and cultural immersion.

Saudi Arabia’s Electronic Tourist Visa and Bilateral Relations

Less than two months ago, Saudi Arabia expanded its electronic tourist visa access to nationals from six new countries, including Turkiye. The total count of countries eligible for Saudi Arabia’s electronic tourist visa reached 63. This reciprocal arrangement opens doors for increased tourism between the two nations, fostering bilateral relations.

Tourist Visa Benefits For Saudi Nationals

Under the electronic tourist visa system, Saudi nationals can request the visa online or obtain it upon arrival at any of the Kingdom’s international airports. The visa facilitates tourism purposes, including visits for Umrah outside the Hajj season, meeting friends and relatives, and attending events, exhibitions, and conferences in Saudi Arabia.

Also Read: UAE, India, Bangladesh & More; Saudi Visa Goes Digital For 7 Countries Starting 1st May!

Economic Impact & Tourism Growth In Turkey

Turkiye has witnessed a notable surge in tourism income, with a 13.1 per cent increase in the third quarter of 2023, reaching over $20 billion. A substantial portion, 16.5 per cent, of this income, is attributed to its citizens residing abroad. Concurrently, Turkish citizens’ expenditure on tourism abroad rose significantly by 74.8 per cent compared to the same quarter in the previous year, amounting to $1.9 billion.

Visa-Free Regime Unleashes Exploration Opportunities

Under the newly established visa-free regime, citizens of Saudi Arabia, the US, Canada, Bahrain, the UAE, and Oman can now explore Turkey without the encumbrance of obtaining a visa before their journey. This exemption allows for a maximum stay of 90 days, providing ample time for tourists to immerse themselves in Turkey’s diverse offerings.

Promoting Mutual Understanding Through Tourism

The overarching goal of this initiative is to bolster tourism and foster cultural exchanges between Turkey and the designated nations. By inviting travelers to experience Turkey’s rich history, diverse landscapes, and vibrant heritage, the country.

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