Saudi Arabia is to open its doors to international tourists for the first time as part of a broader push to cut its economic dependence on oil.
The kingdom will today launch a visa regime for 49 countries and relax strict dress codes for female visitors.
Tourism Minister, Ahmad al-Khateeb described the move as a “historic moment” for the country.
Visas have until now been largely restricted to pilgrims, business people and expatriate workers.
Saudi Arabia is also hoping to secure foreign investment in the tourism industry.
It wants to increase tourism from three to 10 percent of GDP by 2030.
Foreign women visitors will not be required to wear the body-covering abaya robe required to be worn by Saudi women when in public but will have to dress modestly. There will also be no restrictions on unaccompanied women visiting the country.
