GCC residents arriving in Saudi Arabia have increased by 18% since the kingdom announced earlier this week that it would expand its rules for obtaining a tourist visa.

It was announced earlier this month that Saudi Arabia would allow residents of GCC countries to apply for an eVisa to obtain a tourist visa.

A tourist or business visa from the UK, US, or a Schengen visa from the EU can also be obtained on arrival at Saudi Arabia under the new regulations.

According to Abdullah Khuja, manager of foreign liaison at the airport app, the decision has had a swift positive impact.

Since the Ministry of Tourism issued its decree on the [tourist] visa, the number of arrivals from Gulf residents has increased by 18% in two days, he told Saudi television Al Ekhbariya TV. The number of tourists [in Saudi Arabia] has increased throughout the year, he said.

In the tourism sector, the decree has ensured continuity in income increases throughout the year. Restaurants and shops will benefit from the decree," he said.

Holders of a residency visa in GCC countries can apply for an electronic entry visa, according to the Saudi Ministry of Tourism. Three months' validity is required for the applicant's residency visa.

Saudi Arabia announced a new tourist visa scheme in 2019 to attract foreign tourists as part of its efforts to open up to the world. Instant tourist visas can be obtained online or at the Saudi airport upon arrival.