By Innovation-sa on March 4, 2019 in News
Saudi Arabia announced plans to offer special “event” visas to foreign travelers for attending sporting events, concerts and business attractions as the oil-dependent country is taking steps to diversify its economy and become a major global tourism destination. Saudi embassies and consulates will be able to issue visas within 4 hours of receiving a request, the Saudi Cabinet announced.
Under the new visa category, the General Investment Authority, General Sports Authority and General Entertainment Authority will submit event details to the Foreign Affairs Ministry and state security at least two months ahead of the event. The details will then be updated in the visa system and foreign visitors can choose from the growing number of events. In line with the objectives of Crown Prince Muhammed bin Salman’s ambitious reform plan Vision 2030, the Kingdom is investing billions of dollars in sports and entertainment industry with the hope of increasing foreign as well as domestic tourism in the country and creating jobs for young Saudis.
Saudi Arabia’s investment in entertainment infrastructure is expected to reach SR240 billion over the next ten years, according to Turki Al-Sheikh, chairman of the General Entertainment Authority, and contribute SR18 billion to the country’s GDP and generate 224,000 new job openings by 2030.
Arab News – March 03 2019
http://www.arabnews.com/node/1460041/saudi-arabia#.XHqLyjRZ3gM.email