Saudi nationals can enter into Pakistan without visa: Naqvi

Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi on Sunday announced the removal of entry restrictions for Saudi citizens, underscoring efforts to enhance diplomatic and economic cooperation between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia.

The announcement came following a meeting with Saudi Ambassador Nawaf bin Saeed Ahmad Al-Malkiy at the Diplomatic Enclave in Islamabad, where both officials discussed bilateral relations, law enforcement coordination, and updates on travel policies.

Naqvi thanked the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for its consistent support, particularly highlighting its participation in a recently held anti-narcotics conference jointly organised by Pakistan and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC).

The minister also briefed the ambassador on reforms in Pakistan’s passport and documentation system aimed at improving identity verification and document security.

Additionally, he noted an intensified national campaign targeting professional begging rings across the country.

Naqvi praised the Saudi government’s cooperation in the release of five Pakistani nationals wrongfully imprisoned in a drug smuggling case, describing it as an example of successful bilateral coordination.

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Ambassador Al-Malkiy reaffirmed Saudi Arabia’s commitment to strengthening cooperation with Pakistan, citing the historic nature of relations between the two countries and the desire to expand collaboration across key sectors.

The meeting concluded with both sides agreeing to maintain close contact and work together to promote mutual interests.