Saudi Arabia Opens Doors: New Fan Visa Programme Announced for 2034

Saudi Arabia has announced the details of a dedicated Fan Visa programme for the 2034 FIFA World Cup, promising one of the most streamlined and welcoming entry processes in the tournament's history. The programme, developed in partnership with FIFA and the Saudi Ministry of Interior, will allow football fans from all over the world to apply for a multi-entry tournament visa valid for the duration of the competition.

The Fan Visa will be available to all ticket holders and will grant access to Saudi Arabia for the full duration of the tournament — from the opening ceremony to the final. Applicants will be able to apply online through a dedicated portal, with processing times expected to be as short as 72 hours for the majority of nationalities. The visa will be linked directly to the applicant's match ticket, simplifying the entry process at Saudi airports and border crossings.

Saudi authorities have confirmed that the Fan Visa programme will operate on a non-discriminatory basis, with applications accepted from nationals of all countries regardless of their diplomatic relationship with the Kingdom. This represents a significant departure from Saudi Arabia's historically restrictive visa policy and reflects the country's determination to present itself as an open, welcoming destination to the world.

For fans travelling to multiple host cities, the Fan Visa will also cover domestic travel between Riyadh, Jeddah, Abha, Al Khobar, and NEOM. A dedicated tournament transport network — including high-speed rail, domestic flights, and fan shuttle services — will be available exclusively to visa holders, ensuring that supporters can move between venues quickly and affordably.

The Saudi Tourism Authority has also announced a series of cultural orientation resources to help visiting fans make the most of their time in the Kingdom. These include a dedicated World Cup travel app, multilingual visitor guides, and a network of fan ambassadors — Saudi volunteers trained to assist international visitors with everything from navigating local customs to finding the best local restaurants.

Full details of the Fan Visa application process, including eligibility criteria and required documentation, are expected to be published by FIFA and the Saudi organising committee in 2032, ahead of the first wave of ticket sales. Fans are encouraged to register their interest through the official tournament website to receive updates as they become available.