Sri Lanka made a major move to attract more Saudi Arabian tourists by allowing visa-free entry starting October 1. Harin Fernando, Adviser to the Ministry of Tourism, announced this decision, which aims to boost tourism growth and strengthen economic relations.
Celebrating Diplomatic Milestones
Sri Lanka’s Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Ameer Ajwad, praised the move as a catalyst for boosting tourism and business exchanges. He stressed the importance of strengthening people-to-people connections, especially as Sri Lanka and Saudi Arabia celebrate 50 years of diplomatic relations this year.
Expanded Access to 35 Countries
Beyond Saudi Arabia, Sri Lanka extended visa-free entry to citizens from 34 other countries, including the UK, China, the US, and India. The list also features Germany, Australia, Japan, and several other Asian and European nations.
Saudi Arabia: A Crucial Tourism Market
Saudi Arabia ranks as the third-largest source of tourists for Sri Lanka, based on July 2024 statistics. The Sri Lankan Embassy has actively promoted the island nation as a top destination by participating in various international events. At the Riyadh Travel Fair 2024, they showcased Sri Lanka’s diverse tourism offerings to attract more visitors.
Simplifying Travel for Saudi Visitors
The visa-free policy simplifies travel for Saudi Arabian visitors, making it easier for them to explore Sri Lanka’s stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant cities. This move will likely boost tourist arrivals from Saudi Arabia and further strengthen the economic relationship between the two countries.
