Manama: Saudi nationals who hold a Schengen visa are now allowed to visit Bosnia and Herzegovina without the need for a prior visa.
The decision came into effect on June 29, Saudi news site Sabq reported, citing the Bosnian embassy in Riyadh.
Those Saudis who do not have a valid Schengen visa will have to apply for a Bosnian visa at the embassy in Riyadh, the report said on Thursday.
Saudi travellers can fly to Bosnia from airports in Saudi Arabia, Dubai and Istanbul.
Bosnia and Herzegovina has emerged as a prime tourist destination for Gulf nationals, because of its clement weather conditions, beautiful landscapes, affordable rates and a friendly atmosphere that puts most families at ease.
Bosnian officials say that it does not have to go an extra mile to make tourists from Gulf, Arab and Muslim countries comfortable in the Muslim-friendly country. According to them a large number of mosques and availability of halal food also make Bosnia an attractive destination for tourists from the Arab and Muslim countries. Visits to historic Islamic sites are included in heritage tours offered to tourists.
Thousands of Saudis visit Bosnia annually and they include tourists and businessmen who are involved in tourism projects in the capital Sarajevo and other cities.
