KARACHI: With UAE visas becoming difficult for Pakistani travellers, Saudi Arabia is emerging as a key alternative tourism destination due to its simplified visa regime and growing tourism offerings, Vice Chairman Gerry’s Group Amin Wali Mohammad told media during an event here on Tuesday.
He said Saudi Arabia is now offering electronic tourist visas within 48 hours without complicated conditions, making it an attractive option for Pakistani travellers who are facing visa hurdles for the UAE. He added that this shift presents a major opportunity for Saudi Arabia to position itself as a competitive tourism hub in the region.
The remarks were made at a media event titled “Saudi’s Calling: Wonder, Discover,” organised by Gerry’s Travel in collaboration with Visit Saudi.
The event aimed to promote Saudi Arabia as a diverse tourism destination beyond religious travel and to highlight new travel experiences and regional tourism opportunities.
Amin Wali said that while millions of Pakistanis travel to Saudi Arabia annually for Hajj and Umrah, leisure tourism remains a largely untapped segment.
To bridge this gap, the Saudi government is investing heavily in destination development across various cities, offering modern infrastructure, entertainment, and cultural experiences for international tourists.
He said that Gerry’s Travel, as the Saudi Tourism Authority’s (STA) partner in Pakistan, is promoting a wide range of travel packages tailored for different income groups. These include low-cost options, as well as, premium packages featuring five-star and seven-star hotels, allowing travellers to choose according to their budget and preferences.
Responding to a question on regional competition, Amin Wali said that Saudi Arabia is well-positioned to compete by offering improved services, easier visa access and enhanced connectivity. He added that multiple Saudi airlines are operating direct flights from Pakistan, further facilitating travel.
The event brought together representatives from the tourism sector, diplomatic community, industry stakeholders and media.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2026
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