As strict Islamic country, Saudi had only previously allowed non residents to cross its borders for the purposes of business or Muslim travellers who were on their yearly Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca.
From today, however, Saudi will be issuing their first ever tourist visas – estimated to be around £95 including health insurance.
The beautiful country has been cloaked in secrecy from the tourism industry for many years, but will now allow world travellers to explore its wonders.
This new move has come with the aim to allow Saudi Arabia to become less economically dependent on its oil industry; with aims of enticing over 100 million tourists before 2030.
Travellers will get the opportunity to explore the Red Sea, the ‘gateway to Mecca’, stunning architecture and scenic cliff tops in the dazzling sun shine.
Not the holiday destination for those wanting an all inclusive alcoholic drinks package though! Saudi Arabia remains alcohol free and visitors will be asked to adhere to modest dress apparel: no shorts or vest tops for men and women are required to keep shoulders covered and wear garments below the knee.
This will be a first for many UK travellers and an opportunity to unveil the mysteries of Saudi Arabia.
