Saudi Arabia has introduced a revolutionary unified visa platform named ‘KSA Visa,’ accessible online through ‘gov.sa,’ aiming to simplify and expedite visa application procedures, especially for Hajj, Umrah, and various other categories. The platform, unveiled during the second edition of the Digital Government Forum (DGF) in Riyadh, connects over 30 ministries, authorities, and private sectors to enhance and streamline the overall visa application process.
Assistant Minister for Executive Affairs at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Abdulhadi Almansouri, explained during the forum, “The platform is linked to more than 30 agencies, ministries, and the private sector, to facilitate procedures for obtaining various types of visas, including the Hajj visa or the visit visa for the purpose of Umrah or tourism, as well as work visas.”
The KSA Visa platform covers an array of visas, such as Hajj, Umrah visits, business visits, tourist visas, and work visas. One of the notable features is a user-friendly smart search engine that simplifies access to available visas. It also serves as a centralized reference point, offering comprehensive information on visa requirements across different categories and their respective application procedures.
With a focus on improving the visitor experience, the platform incorporates an updated personal profile for applicants, enabling easy visa review and reapplication. The implementation of artificial intelligence and emerging technologies is integrated to enhance data accuracy verification and elevate the overall efficiency of the platform in alignment with the Kingdom’s national objectives.
The launch of ‘KSA Visa’ coincides with broader efforts in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) to introduce a unified Gulf tourist visa. This move follows the approval of a decision by the Supreme Council of GCC countries during the Doha Summit in November. The summit empowered the interior ministers of GCC to take the necessary measures for the implementation of new visa rules, fostering regional tourism initiatives.
Saudi Arabia’s commitment to leveraging digital advancements for smoother visa processes reflects its dedication to enhancing accessibility for pilgrims, tourists, and workers, aligning with the nation’s vision for the future.
