THE Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is planning to open its borders to nonMuslim leisure travellers as construction begins on phase one of its project to turn some of the islands along the Red Sea into an eco-friendly luxury haven. Development of the Red Sea Project officially began last month. Plans call for a mix of luxury and premium beach and mountain resorts, wellness centres, homes and marinas capable of hosting up to a million visitors a year. Saudi Arabia is currently
planning to offer e-visas, which will enable tourists from eligible countries to gain entry within 24 hours. Visas have, until now, been reserved mostly for foreigners working or visiting family in the country and for Muslims making pilgrimages to Mecca and Medina, however exceptions have been made for special events such as Formula E motor racing. The Red Sea Project will allow visas on arrival (VOAs) for visitors to the country. An official source says that South Africans will be offered this service.
