Visa-free travel from UAE: Iran welcomes citizens of 33 countries including Saudi Arabia and India

Dubai: Iran has announced visa-free entry for 33 countries, marking a significant step towards “opening the doors of the country to the world.”

The facility was initiated unilaterally by Iran in accordance with priorities set by the the Ministry of Cultural Heritage, Tourism and Handicrafts.

Ezzatollah Zarghami, Minister of Cultural Heritage, Tourism and Handicrafts, emphasised that the decision is a message to the global community, demonstrating Iran’s readiness to welcome visitors from around the world and provide them with enhanced facilities for a convenient and enjoyable experience.

By taking this step, Iran aims to counter negative perceptions and rumours while combating the phenomenon of ‘Iranophobia perpetuated by the global arrogance system’, the minister said.

The minister revealed that his ministry had proposed visa free for 60 countries, but the government approved the measure for 33 of them. Iranian media reported that Iranian citizens will be able to travel for Umrah in Saudi Arabia through regular flights starting from December 19.

This marks the first time in eight years that Iranians will be able to perform Umrah in Saudi Arabia, signifying an improvement in relations between the two nations.

The semi-official Fars News Agency noted that flights will depart from ten airports across Iran to transport Iranian pilgrims to Mecca, with the first group of pilgrims scheduled to travel on December 19.