Uzbekistan and Saudi Arabia have discussed simplifying visa procedures, expanding air connectivity and strengthening cooperation in the tourism sector, according to Uzbekistan's Tourism Committee. The discussions took place during a meeting between Abdulaziz Akkulov, Chairman of Uzbekistan's Tourism Committee, and Mohammad Abunayyan, Co-Chairman of the Uzbekistan-Saudi Business Council and Chairman of the Board of Acwa Power.
One of the main topics was simplifying visa procedures to facilitate travel and increase tourist flows between the two countries. The parties also discussed promoting Uzbekistan's tourism potential in the Saudi Arabian market and developing travel packages tailored to the preferences and needs of Saudi tourists.
The meeting addressed opportunities to increase the number of direct flights and introduce additional seasonal charter services between Uzbekistan and Saudi Arabia. The parties also considered measures to strengthen cooperation between tourism companies in both countries, including the development of tourism products and travel services.
Another area of discussion was attracting Saudi investment into Uzbekistan's tourism infrastructure. The participants reviewed opportunities for Saudi investors to take part in tourism development projects, including the preparation of master plans for tourism zones and the expansion of public-private partnerships.
The discussions covered potential cooperation in planning and developing tourism destinations and related infrastructure.
The discussions follow an earlier announcement that Saudi Arabia had introduced a one-year, multiple-entry Umrah visa. Under the visa arrangement, eligible travelers can enter Saudi Arabia multiple times during the visa's validity period, with each visit limited to a maximum stay of 90 days.