Saudi Arabia Prepares Passport Services for Arab Cup 2025 Visitors

Post by : Mara Rahim

The General Directorate of Passports in Saudi Arabia has declared its full preparedness to support travelers heading to Qatar for the FIFA Arab Cup Qatar 2025, scheduled from December 1 to 18. A substantial influx of fans from the Kingdom is expected, prompting the directorate to bolster services for seamless and secure travel.

To accommodate the numerous visitors, the Passports Department has boosted staffing levels at Salwa Port, the principal land border between Saudi Arabia and Qatar. New advanced technical systems have been implemented to expedite passport verification and entry processes. These enhancements aim to reduce waiting times, ensuring fans reach Qatar swiftly and safely.

Citizens are encouraged to verify the validity of their passports prior to their journey. It is advised that passports remain valid for a minimum of three months for trips to any Arab nation, including Qatar, and six months for international travels beyond the Arab world. Passengers should renew their passports well in advance to avoid delays at border checkpoints.

Regarding travel to Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nations, the Passports Department emphasized crucial regulations. Travelers must possess either a valid passport or national ID card. Documents like family registers or digital IDs through platforms such as Absher or Tawakkalna are not valid for international travel, even within GCC territories, as they are strictly for domestic purposes.

Travelers were also advised to organize their journeys early, ensure the security of their travel documents, arrive punctually at border crossings, and adhere to all regulatory guidance provided by border officials. The department will closely oversee travel operations throughout the tournament, offering any additional necessary support to guarantee a hassle-free experience.

Saudi Arabia is committed to ensuring that its citizens have a safe, enjoyable travel experience while attending the Arab Cup matches. With increased staffing, system upgrades, and rigorous adherence to travel regulations, the General Directorate of Passports aims to facilitate a quick, smooth, and enjoyable journey to Qatar. Fans can anticipate a well-organized tournament as authorities strive to manage all entry and exit operations efficiently.