By Soliu Oyesiji
The Ministry of Interior Saudi Arabia has begun processing expired visas for foreigners unable to leave the kingdom due to ongoing regional circumstances.
In a directive issued by the leadership, the ministry said the measure applies to holders of all categories of visas, including visit, Umrah, transit and final exit visas that expired on February 25, 2026.
Under the arrangement, affected individuals can extend their visas until April 18, 2026, upon request by their hosts and after payment of the prescribed fees through the Absher platform.
The ministry also announced that visa holders may exit the kingdom directly through international ports without the need for extension, payment of fees or penalties.
It urged all affected persons to take advantage of the window to depart before the April deadline to avoid sanctions under Saudi regulations.