Turkey and Saudi Arabia set to scrap visa requirements, source says

Yesterday 12:15

Turkey and Saudi Arabia are preparing to sign an agreement that would remove visa requirements for their citizens, according to a Turkish diplomatic source. The deal is expected to be finalized during talks between the two countries’ foreign ministers in Ankara on Wednesday.

Strengthening bilateral relations

The planned agreement marks another step in the gradual normalization of relations between Ankara and Riyadh. Ties between the two countries were severely strained after the 2018 killing of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi at the Saudi consulate in Istanbul. Turkey had accused senior Saudi officials of involvement in the incident.

Since 2020, both countries have worked to rebuild diplomatic and economic relations through high-level meetings and cooperation frameworks.

Coordination council meeting

Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan and Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan are expected to co-chair a meeting of the Turkey–Saudi Coordination Council. The agreement is expected to cover holders of both ordinary and diplomatic passports.

Regional diplomacy and security issues

During the talks, Turkey is expected to emphasize its approach of “regional ownership” in addressing Middle Eastern challenges. Ankara will also reiterate its support for diplomatic efforts aimed at reducing tensions in regional conflicts, including the situation involving Iran.

Additionally, Turkish officials are expected to warn against rising tensions around the Strait of Hormuz, stressing the importance of avoiding further escalation or provocations in the area.