Armenia Grants Visa-Free Entry to Citizens and Residents of Saudi Arabia and GCC States
- SAUDI ARABIA BREAKING NEWS
- Jun 12
- 2 min read

Riyadh, June 12, 2025 (Saudi Arabia Breaking News) – Armenia has announced a new visa-free policy for citizens and residents of Saudi Arabia and other Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, set to take effect from July 1, 2025, in a move aimed at deepening regional economic ties and enhancing tourism flows.
The decision, confirmed by Armenia’s government during a cabinet meeting on May 22, will apply to nationals of the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Oman, allowing visa-free travel for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. The exemption also extends to holders of valid residency permits from GCC countries, provided the permit is valid for at least six months from the date of entry.
Armenian officials said the initiative forms part of a broader strategy to strengthen bilateral partnerships and attract tourism and investment from the Gulf region. Lusine Gevorgyan, Chairman of the Tourism Committee at the Ministry of Economy, described the development as a "milestone" that reflects Armenia’s commitment to making the country more accessible to regional travelers.
“We look forward to welcoming more guests from the GCC who seek meaningful travel experiences – whether through our ancient monasteries, vibrant food scene, or immersive cultural festivals,” she said.
The Ministry added that the visa waiver is expected to support broader tourism goals, including improved air connectivity, enhanced infrastructure, and destination marketing across global markets. According to Armenpress, Armenia’s state news agency, the measure will also apply to foreign nationals with valid residence permits from the U.S., EU, Schengen countries, and GCC states.
The Eurasian country previously waived visa requirements for UAE citizens in 2017, for Qataris in 2019, and for Kuwaitis in 2022—steps that laid the foundation for this expanded regional policy.
Officials from Armenia emphasized that the move responds to growing demand from Gulf residents for nearby cultural and leisure destinations. The visa-free entry initiative is seen as part of Armenia’s ongoing efforts to position itself as a regional tourism hub within the South Caucasus.