Saudi Arabia opens new visa category for Turkish drivers

Saudi Arabian authorities have established a dedicated land transport visa category for Turkish hauliers, enabling overland freight operations between the two countries after years of disruption, according to a letter from Ankara's Transport and Infrastructure Ministry sent to industry representatives.

Visa framework

The new system provides for multi-entry land transport visas valid for one year at a cost of 300 Saudi riyals ($79.88), alongside single-entry transit permits issued free of charge, the ministry's Transportation Services Regulation General Directorate noted in correspondence with civil society organizations. Companies have already begun utilizing the visas, with the U-Net automation system — which tracks licensed transport firms — recording an uptick in shipments to the Kingdom since the scheme's implementation.

Regional corridors

The development follows the opening of transit routes via Iraq and Syria amid shifting regional dynamics, creating opportunities for Turkish firms to reach Saudi Arabia by land after prolonged reliance on maritime alternatives. High-level contacts established between Ankara and Riyadh in recent months paved the way for the visa facilitation agreement, which aims to ease operational difficulties faced by drivers during cross-border transport operations.

Pending adjustments

Turkish officials have requested that Saudi authorities extend the permitted four-day stay period for transit visas to 15 days to accommodate the country's vast geography, vehicle maintenance requirements, and mandatory driver rest periods. Negotiations are also ongoing regarding the reduction of high fees charged by intermediary firms handling visa applications, with both sides expected to pursue further measures to streamline transport operations in the coming period.