Saudi Arabia offers first ever international tourist visa

Saudi Arabia will open its doors to international tourists for the first time.

This is part of a broader push to cut the country’s economic dependence on oil.

On Friday, the kingdom will launch a visa regime for 49 countries and relax strict dress codes for female visitors.

Tourism minister Ahmad Al-Khateeb described the move as historic for the country.

Visas have until now largely been restricted to pilgrims, business people and expatriate workers.

Saudi Arabia is also hoping to secure foreign investment in the tourism industry.