VFS TasHeel starts processing Saudi tourist, umrah visas in 30 countries

Visa service provider VFS TasHeel has launched Saudi tourist visa services at its centres in thirty countries, it said in a statement on Sunday.

The company is an authorised visa service provider for Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Saudi Arabia started issuing tourist visas on arrival and eVisas to nationals of 49 eligible countries on September 28. The visa is for one year and for multiple entries. It allows tourists to spend up to 90 days in the country, including for umrah outside of the hajj season. 

Applicants of all other nationalities can also apply for the tourist visa through Saudi embassies and consulates.

VFS TasHeel, a wholly-owned subsidiary of VFS Global, will now facilitate applications in 30 countries.

Saudi Arabia has opened up to tourists as it diversifies its economy away from dependence on oil. Its goal is for its tourism sector to contribute up to 10 per cent of the country’s GDP by 2030 compared to around 3 per cent currently.

It aims to attract 100 million international and domestic overnight visits a year by 2030, the Saudi Commission for Tourism and National Heritage said in a atatement on September 27. 

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