By Ibrahim Kegbegbe
Saudi Arabia has officially confirmed the list of African countries whose citizens are eligible to apply for its electronic tourist visa (eVisa), with only three African nations making the cut in the Kingdom’s latest visa policy.
According to information published through Saudi Arabia’s official tourism visa platform, citizens of South Africa, Mauritius and Seychelles are the only African passport holders currently eligible to apply for the Saudi tourist eVisa under the country’s expanded digital visa programme. The initiative forms part of Saudi Arabia’s broader strategy to promote tourism, simplify international travel and diversify its economy under its Vision 2030 agenda.
The updated policy allows eligible travellers from 66 countries to apply for a tourist visa entirely online without visiting a Saudi embassy or consulate. The eVisa is designed to simplify entry procedures and encourage more visitors to explore the Kingdom’s growing tourism sector.
Nigeria Not Included
Nigeria, Africa’s most populous country, is not among the African nations eligible for the Saudi tourist eVisa. As a result, Nigerian citizens wishing to visit Saudi Arabia for tourism are generally required to obtain a visa through the conventional application process rather than the simplified online eVisa system.
The exclusion has generated discussions among travellers and travel agencies across Africa, particularly as Saudi Arabia continues to strengthen diplomatic and economic relations with many African countries.
What the eVisa Offers
The Saudi tourist eVisa is a multiple-entry visa that is generally valid for one year, allowing eligible visitors to stay in the Kingdom for up to 90 days per visit for tourism-related purposes. It also permits travellers to perform Umrah, provided the journey does not take place during the Hajj season, which requires a separate pilgrimage visa.
Applications are completed through an online portal where eligible travellers submit their passport details, pay the applicable visa fee and receive approval electronically, often within a relatively short period depending on the application.
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Part of Saudi Arabia’s Tourism Expansion
Saudi Arabia has invested heavily in expanding its tourism industry in recent years as part of its Vision 2030 programme aimed at reducing the country’s dependence on oil revenue.
The Kingdom has introduced several initiatives to attract international visitors, including easier visa procedures, the development of luxury tourism projects along the Red Sea coast, heritage destinations, entertainment festivals and international sporting events.
Recently, Saudi Arabia also unveiled a new “Package Visa” initiative that integrates visa applications directly with travel bookings through approved tourism providers, further simplifying travel arrangements for eligible visitors. The programme is expected to expand gradually to more international markets.
Advice for Travellers
Prospective travellers are advised to verify the latest visa requirements before making travel arrangements, as immigration policies can change depending on bilateral agreements and government decisions.
The Merit Newspaper reports that applicants should also ensure their passports remain valid for the required period and carefully review all eligibility conditions before submitting an application through Saudi Arabia’s official visa channels.
