This means that South Africans can apply for a visa to visit Saudi Arabia online, without having to go to an embassy or consulate. The e-visa is valid for one year and allows multiple entries, with each stay lasting up to 90 days.
The cost of the e-visa is 535 Saudi riyals, which includes medical insurance. South Africa exempts travelers from Saudi Arabia from obtaining a visa for stays of up to 90 days.
The introduction of the e-visa system is expected to make it easier for South Africans to travel to Saudi Arabia for tourism and Umrah (the lesser pilgrimage to Mecca and Medina). It is also seen as a way to strengthen tourism ties between the two countries.
South Africa is the first African country to be included in the Saudi Arabia e-visa system. The South African government has welcomed the move, saying that it will make it easier for South Africans to visit Saudi Arabia for tourism and religious purposes.
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