Saudi Arabia has joined a select few international partners as a member of the Global Entry program, which expedites entry into the US for pre-approved, low-risk travelers.
Described by the Saudi Embassy in the US as a “new milestone,” the move further boosts the longstanding Saudi-US ties, driven by a strategic partnership grounded in more than 80 years of bilateral cooperation across various fields.
Fast-Tracked Entry for Saudi Travelers
Driving the News: US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) announced the expansion of its Global Entry program to include Saudi Arabia as an official partner, joining 22 international partners eligible for the program’s membership.
The Big Picture: The decision, announced on October 27, 2026, marks a major stride toward strengthening travel, trade, and security collaboration between Riyadh and Washington.
In Her Words: “Travel should build bridges. By extending Global Entry eligibility to Saudi Arabian citizens, we’re making international travel more seamless for trusted travelers while strengthening cooperation between our two countries. This milestone reflects our shared vision for secure and efficient travel.” – Diane J. Sabatino, Executive Assistant Commissioner at CBP’s Office of Field Operations.
What the Program Offers
Between the Lines: In collaboration with over 80 airlines, the Global Entry program facilitates and speeds up entry procedures into the US for pre-approved, low-risk travelers. It grants expedited clearance at US airports and access to TSA PreCheck® for eligible domestic flights, following rigorous vetting by both US and Saudi Arabian authorities, including an in-person interview conducted by CBP before enrollment.
Catch Up Quick: TSA PreCheck is a US government expedited airport security program that allows low-risk travelers to move through dedicated lanes at more than 200 airports without removing their shoes, belts, light jackets, laptops, or liquids.
Global Entry Program Benefits
Upon Entry: The program reduces waiting times at airports during US entry procedures. It offers streamlined entry procedures through dedicated self-service kiosks, in addition to an expedited identity and passport verification process.
Upon Departure: The program allows travelers to use designated security screening lanes at US airports under the TSA PreCheck program.
How to Apply
Online: Travelers can submit an online application through the program’s official portal. Membership in Global Entry is valid for five years, subject to continuous compliance with all program requirements.
Trusted Traveler Mobile Application: Saudi travelers can apply through the official Trusted Traveler mobile application, which allows applicants to submit forms, track their background review status, and book required interview appointments. After receiving final approval, members can also use the app on their smartphones to submit arrival photos at participating US airports, ensuring a faster, contactless arrival process.
A Vision 2030 Engine
Go Deeper: The inclusion of Saudi Arabia in the Global Entry program empowers the Saudi business community by providing seamless entry for investors, venture capitalists, tech entrepreneurs, and government delegations into major US economic and tech hubs, such as Silicon Valley. Furthermore, it supports Saudi students attending top US universities and facilitates medical and technological exchanges by allowing specialists to join major scientific events.
The Impact: This streamlined mobility advances the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030 by reinforcing the Kingdom’s global connectivity, accelerating cross-border trade and investment, and fostering seamless human capital exchange between Saudi Arabia and the US.
A Boost for Saudi-US Ties
The Context: Saudi Arabia and the US have maintained a robust strategic partnership for over eight decades spanning various sectors, including trade, defense, energy, education, technology and tourism.
State of Play: The inclusion of the Kingdom in the Global Entry program signals strong mutual trust between Washington and Riyadh and a shared commitment to strengthening cooperation across various fields.
The Takeaway: Saudi Arabia’s membership in the Global Entry program further deepens Saudi-US relations, opening new horizons for expanding cross-border investment, tourism, and diplomatic engagement in the coming years.
