Annisa Essack | kzn@radioislam.org.za
31^st October 2023 | 10:45 CAT
2 min read

Photo Credit: Masala

Unlocking New Horizons for South African Travellers and Strengthening Bilateral Tourism Relations

In an exciting development, South African Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille has hailed the introduction of Saudi Arabia’s e-visa system, offering South African citizens easier access to the fascinating Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for tourism purposes. This milestone is a game-changer and a testament to the strengthening ties between the two nations.

“I am extremely pleased with this development as South Africa also became the first African country to be added to the list. This will bring immense benefits for leisure and Umrah travellers and our efforts to grow tourism between South Africa and Saudi Arabia,” Minister de Lille said, emphasising the potential for enhanced tourism between the two countries.

The Saudi e-visa is a multi-entry visa valid for one year, allowing travellers to explore the Kingdom for up to 90 days at a time. It is priced at 535 Saudi Riyals and includes medical insurance coverage, ensuring a secure and convenient travel experience. In reciprocity, South Africa has exempted travellers from Saudi Arabia, making it easier to explore the Rainbow Nation for up to 90 days.

Fostering Tourism Ties

The South African Department of Tourism has a Memorandum of Understanding with Saudi Arabia’s Tourism Department, outlining their shared objectives to boost tourism between the two nations. Minister de Lille’s official visit to Saudi Arabia for the International World Tourism Day conference marked a pivotal moment in strengthening tourism relations and cooperation with Saudi Arabian stakeholders. During her visit, she engaged with various Saudi stakeholders, including the Air Connectivity Programme team within the Ministry of Tourism and the Saudi Tourism Authority.

These discussions explored avenues for improving air connectivity between Saudi Arabia and South Africa. A joint marketing strategy was also conceived to promote both countries as desirable destinations for travellers in each nation.

Enhanced Air Connectivity

One particularly exciting development is the announcement by Saudia (Saudi Arabian Airlines) regarding the resumption of direct flights between Jeddah and Johannesburg, commencing on December 1, 2023. Minister de Lille expressed her enthusiasm for this development: “During our engagements, we shared research with the Saudi Air Connectivity Team to motivate for a direct flight between Jeddah and Cape Town.”

Implementing the e-visa system and reinstating direct flights between the two nations have far-reaching implications. These developments will significantly ease travel for tourists, particularly those embarking on religious journeys and pilgrimages. It’s a promising sign for both South African and Saudi travellers.

A Doorway to Exploration

The e-visa primarily caters to tourists interested in partaking in various tourism-related activities, such as attending events, visiting family and relatives, leisure trips, and Umrah (excluding Hajj). Please note that this visa does not cover other activities, such as studying.

In conclusion, Minister de Lille emphasised, “We will continue working with our counterparts in Saudi Arabia, through the Minister of Tourism, Ahmed Al-Khateeb, to look at new and innovative ways to grow tourism between our countries. This key sector is an important part of our countries’ economies and a key job creator.”

The future holds exciting prospects for South African travellers exploring the enchanting Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Through the e-visa system and improved air connectivity, the extended hand of friendship is set to create lasting memories and connections between these two nations.