Mohsin Naqvi: Saudis Can Enter Pakistan Freely

In a major diplomatic and travel development, Pakistan's Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has announced that citizens of Saudi Arabia can now visit Pakistan without a visa. This move aims to strengthen bilateral relations, boost tourism, and enhance economic collaboration between the two brotherly nations.

The announcement has been widely welcomed by both Pakistanis and Saudi citizens, reflecting the close cultural, religious, and economic ties that bind the two countries.

• Saudi citizens no longer require a visa to enter Pakistan.

• Announcement made by Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi during his official visit.

• Part of a larger strategy to promote tourism and investment.

• Aims to strengthen Pak-Saudi diplomatic and people-to-people ties.

• Initiative aligns with Pakistan’s “open doors” tourism policy.

During a high-level meeting with Saudi officials, Mohsin Naqvi stated:

"Saudi citizens are our brothers and are always welcome in Pakistan. We are removing barriers that hinder our relationship. Starting immediately, Saudi nationals will not need a visa to visit Pakistan."

This declaration is seen as part of Pakistan’s broader strategy to encourage foreign travel and attract investment from key allies in the region.

This policy change opens new opportunities for Saudi citizens:

• Easier access to religious and historical sites in Pakistan.

• Boost in tourism for cities like Lahore, Islamabad, Karachi, Skardu, Hunza, and Murree.

• Encouragement for Saudi investors and businessmen to explore Pakistan’s growing markets.

• Enhanced cultural and educational exchanges between the two nations.

According to official sources:

• No prior online or embassy visa application is required for Saudi citizens.

• They can enter Pakistan using a valid Saudi passport and standard entry procedures at the ports of entry.

• The initial stay period and extension options will be regulated by the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) and the Ministry of Interior.

• Applicable for tourism, business, and family visits.

Pakistan’s visa-free move for Saudi citizens is part of a wider initiative to revive tourism and boost economic activity.

• Revive the tourism sector post-COVID-19.

• Attract foreign exchange and investment.

• Enhance bilateral cooperation with Gulf countries.

• Project Pakistan’s soft image internationally.

• Provide religious tourism opportunities to Saudi citizens interested in Sufi shrines, Islamic heritage, and spiritual destinations.

Saudi citizens can now explore a variety of cultural, religious, and scenic destinations:

• Lahore: Badshahi Mosque, Shahi Qila, Data Darbar

• Multan: Shrines of Sufi saints like Bahauddin Zakariya

• Thatta & Makli: UNESCO World Heritage Sites

• Skardu & Hunza: Snow-capped peaks, lakes, and valleys

• Swat & Kalam: Nicknamed the “Switzerland of the East”

• Murree & Nathia Gali: Hill stations close to Islamabad

The visa-free initiative is a sign of the deep-rooted and strategic friendship between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia.

• Islamic solidarity and strong cultural ties

• Defense cooperation and joint military training

• Economic collaboration, especially in energy and infrastructure

• Large Pakistani diaspora in Saudi Arabia, over 2.5 million strong

• Joint ventures in mining, tourism, energy, and real estate

• Scholarships and academic exchanges between universities

• Religious tourism corridors linking sacred sites

The decision has received widespread appreciation on social media and in local communities:

• Many users on Twitter and Facebook applauded the government’s bold move to welcome Saudis with open arms.

• Tourism operators in northern areas and historical cities are hopeful that this will increase bookings and local income.

• Pakistani citizens living in Saudi Arabia are celebrating the policy, as it also encourages family visits and easier travel for friends from the Kingdom.

This decision is expected to bring multiple benefits:

For Pakistan:

• Increased tourism revenue

• Positive global image

• Economic and trade partnerships

For Saudi Citizens:

• Access to cultural, natural, and religious experiences

• Ease of travel with no visa barriers

• Business expansion in Pakistani markets

Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi also hinted at similar agreements with other Muslim countries.

“We envision a Pakistan that is easily accessible to our brothers across the Islamic world.”

Future Prospects:

• Similar visa-free access might be granted to the UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, and Oman.

• These steps are aligned with the government’s 2025 Tourism Growth Roadmap.

Following the announcement:

• The Ministry of Foreign Affairs released a statement confirming the decision.

• The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has been instructed to facilitate smooth entry for Saudi nationals.

• Airport immigration counters have been briefed to implement the new directive immediately.

The announcement by Mohsin Naqvi is a landmark moment in Pakistan’s foreign policy and tourism revival strategy. By allowing Saudi citizens visa-free access, the government has opened the doors for stronger ties, greater economic cooperation, and increased people-to-people contact.

As Pakistan positions itself as a friendly and welcoming destination for Muslim travelers, such policies will play a crucial role in reshaping its global image and boosting its economy.