Pakistan, Saudi Arabia sign agreement to abolish visa requirements for diplomatic, official passport holders

On Tuesday, Pakistan and Saudi Arabia signed an agreement to eliminate visa requirements for diplomats, government officials, and those holding special passports. Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar signed the pact alongside Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan during the United Nations General Assembly in New York. Dar expressed optimism that the visa waiver would enhance high-level interactions and institutional exchanges, further strengthening the strategic partnership between the two countries.

Dar also reaffirmed Pakistan's solidarity with Saudi Arabia, condemning recent attacks on the nation.

The foreign ministers discussed the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement, reaffirming their commitment to bolstering cooperation and promoting regional peace, stability, and security. Additionally, the two nations reaffirmed the importance of regular high-level exchanges and close coordination on bilateral and regional matters of mutual interest.

Pakistan and Saudi Arabia share a robust bilateral relationship, marked by frequent high-level diplomatic exchanges. In August, the countries jointly signed a defence pact alongside Turkey, pledging to bolster collective security, deepen defense cooperation, and foster peace and stability in the region and beyond. Earlier in August, Pakistan and Saudi Arabia agreed to increase agricultural and food exports to the Gulf state, aiming for a cumulative value of $3 billion.

Saudi Arabia recently introduced a multiple-entry Umrah visa with a one-year validity, allowing pilgrims to visit the kingdom multiple times within a year, with a cumulative stay of up to 90 days. In 2024, Riyadh further eased tourist visa requirements for Pakistani travelers, permitting them to submit a bank statement showing a minimum monthly credit amount of $750 or its equivalent for entry into the kingdom.